Model Maker

JOB TITLE: Model Maker
LOCATION: Foster City, CA (Onsite)
PAY RANGE: $52 - $62/hr.
DURATION: 6 Months

About the Role

As a Model Maker, you’ll play a pivotal role in bringing innovative autonomous mobility solutions to life by creating high-quality prototypes and first articles. You’ll work closely with cross-functional teams to support rapid iteration and precision in vehicle development, leveraging your expertise in CNC operation, setup, machining, and fabrication to produce accurate and functional parts.

Your responsibilities will include operating CNC machines, setting up tooling, and performing hands-on fabrication tasks to support prototyping and manufacturing processes. You’ll collaborate with engineers, designers, fabricators, and other model makers to troubleshoot issues, optimize workflows, and contribute to the continuous improvement of prototyping capabilities.

Key Responsibilities

CNC Operation and Setup

• Set up, operate, and maintain CNC machines, including mills and lathes, to produce precision parts according to engineering drawings and specifications
• Load and unload materials, tooling, and fixtures, ensuring proper alignment and calibration for optimal performance
• Monitor machine performance, detect issues, and perform routine maintenance to minimize downtime

Fabrication and Machining

• Perform metalwork, including milling, turning, drilling, shearing, bending, and welding, to create prototypes and components
• Work with composites, additive manufacturing (3D printing), and other advanced materials to support prototyping needs
• Use hand tools and precision equipment to deburr, finish, and refine parts for quality and functionality

Quality and Craftsmanship

• Inspect parts for accuracy, finish, and adherence to blueprints or CAD models
• Ensure high standards of craftsmanship through proper deburring, hand-finishing, and assembly techniques
• Troubleshoot fabrication issues and adjust processes as needed to meet project requirements

Shop Organization and Safety

• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe workspace in compliance with shop and safety protocols
• Follow proper procedures for handling materials, chemicals, and waste to ensure a sustainable and hazard-free environment

Collaboration and Communication

• Work closely with engineers, designers, and fabricators to understand project requirements and provide feedback on manufacturability and design improvements
• Communicate project updates, timelines, and potential risks to stakeholders in a timely and professional manner

Qualifications

Experience

• 2+ years of experience as a Model Maker, Fabricator, Machinist, or CNC Operator in a prototyping or fast-paced manufacturing environment
• Proficiency in reading and interpreting engineering drawings, blueprints, and CAD models, such as SolidWorks or CATIA

Technical Skills

• Ability to use precision measuring tools, including calipers, micrometers, and CMM, for quality control
• Basic knowledge of GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing) principles
• Familiarity with shop safety protocols and best practices for material handling

Soft Skills

• Strong problem-solving mindset with the ability to troubleshoot fabrication and machining issues
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills
• Commitment to continuous learning and adapting to new technologies and processes

Bonus Qualifications

• Degree in industrial design, engineering, or a similar field
• Knowledge of documentation tools such as Jira or Confluence

BENEFITS SUMMARY: Individual compensation is determined by skills, qualifications, experience, and location. Compensation details listed in this posting reflect the base hourly rate or annual salary only, unless otherwise stated. In addition to base compensation, full-time roles are eligible for Medical, Dental, Vision, Commuter and 401K benefits with company matching.

IND123