Principal Technician at University of Kwazulu-Natal

Job description

• The Aerospace Systems Research Institute (ASRI) within the School of Engineering, requires an experienced 5-Axis CNC Machinist to join our precision machine shop, working on complex components for aerospace and high-precision industrial applications
• The incumbent must have strong understanding of GD&T and ability to work to tight tolerances, a self-starter who can manage production processes independently and strong troubleshooting and problem-solving ability
• The incumbent will be responsible for programming, setting up, and operating 5-axis CNC milling machines (DN Solutions/Doosan or similar. S/he will also be responsible for interpreting engineering drawings and GD&T callouts to produce parts to specification and maintaining tight dimensional tolerances (±0.01 mm or better). 
• Further, s/he will be responsible for troubleshooting machining, tooling, and setup issues to optimise quality and cycle time and managing their own setups and workflow with minimal supervision.
• In addition, the incumbent will perform in-process and final inspection using appropriate measuring equipment and maintain and care for machines, tooling, and workholding.
• The incumbent be responsible for programming, setting up, and operating 5-axis CNC milling machines to manufacture precision components to tight tolerances. This is a hands-on role suited to someone who takes pride in accuracy, problem-solving, and seeing a job through from drawing to finished part. 
• Experience with precision/mould tooling, jigs, fixtures, or similarly exacting work will be an advantage.
• The incumbent will report to the Senior Engineer of the Aerospace Systems Research Institute.

Minimum requirements

• Matric/N3 plus 3-year Mechanical Engineering qualification or Toolmaker Trade qualification

Five (5)years experience which must include:

• CNC machining experience, including demonstrated 5-axis programming and setup
• Experience across multiple machine platforms (mills, lathes, multi-axis
• Experience with Fanuc controllers
• Proficiency in CAM software such as Fusion 360, Siemens NX

The closing date for receipt of applications is 14 August 2026.