Model Maker – Additive Focus
Overview
Turn engineering and design concepts into high-fidelity physical prototypes and appearance models for innovative autonomous vehicle programs. As a Model Maker with an additive manufacturing focus, you’ll work hands-on with engineers, designers, and prototype fabrication specialists to select the right materials and processes, operate multiple 3D-printing platforms, and transform experimental concepts into accurate, finished physical parts. This is an onsite, highly collaborative role where your craftsmanship, technical judgment, and ability to move quickly will directly support high-impact development work.
Required Skills
- 2–5 years of hands-on experience in additive manufacturing, model making, or prototype fabrication.
- Working knowledge of SLA, SLS, FDM, and PolyJet processes and materials, including tradeoffs among speed, strength, and surface finish.
- Experience preparing, nesting, slicing, and running additive manufacturing builds.
- Ability to troubleshoot common build issues, including warping, adhesion problems, and support failures.
- Experience with build-preparation or slicing software such as GrabCAD Print, Materialise Magics, Autodesk Fusion with additive manufacturing extensions, or similar tools.
- Ability to read and navigate CAD models using SolidWorks, CATIA, or comparable software.
- Ability to interpret technical drawings and GD&T callouts.
- Proficiency with precision measurement tools, including calipers and micrometers.
- Hands-on finishing skills, including support removal, sanding, priming, painting, bonding, dyeing, insert installation, and assembly.
- Ability to review CAD designs for printability and provide Design for Additive Manufacturing feedback.
- Experience assembling prototypes and integrating printed parts with CNC-machined, laser-cut, purchased, and electronic components.
- Ability to manage an assigned request queue, prioritize work, and meet deadlines with light supervision.
- Clear communication skills and the ability to collaborate effectively with engineers, designers, and other fabrication disciplines.
- Ability to perform routine equipment maintenance and first-line troubleshooting.
- Commitment to lab safety and material-handling procedures.
Nice-to-Have Skills
- Experience creating or editing CAD surfaces and printable parts or fixtures.
- Experience with paint matching, surface texturing, or appearance and ergonomic models.
- Experience with additional prototyping methods, such as:
- CNC operation
- Laser cutting
- MIG/TIG welding
- Foam, wood, urethane, or clay modeling
- Experience with OSHA-compliant shop practices.
- Experience handling hazardous materials in a fabrication or prototyping environment.
- Familiarity with JIRA or similar workflow and request-management tools.
Preferred Education and Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in engineering, industrial design, or a related field, or equivalent hands-on experience.
- 2–5 years of relevant experience in additive manufacturing, model making, prototype fabrication, or a comparable technical production environment.
Other Requirements
- Work arrangement: Onsite in Foster City, California.
- Engagement: 12-month assignment.
- Ability to work hands-on in a prototype fabrication lab and follow applicable safety and material-handling protocols.
- Ability to coordinate with vendors for additive equipment service when required.
- W2 engagement only.
