Prototype Technician

Your Charter

Own the day-to-day preparation, fabrication, and inspection of 3D-printed prototypes for NEO. Create or modify prototype parts and simple fixtures in CAD with engineers, applying design for additive manufacturing (DfAM). Select materials and build parameters for the intended use, prepare print files, operate and maintain printers, and complete post-processing. Troubleshoot failed builds, inspect critical dimensions, and support assembly checks and functional testing. Turn those results into practical design and process improvements while maintaining a safe, organized prototyping workspace.

Key Outcomes

• Deliver labeled, inspected prototypes that meet engineer-defined dimensional, fit, and functional criteria on agreed schedules; flag deviations before parts enter assembly or testing.
• Improve first-pass build success and turnaround by tracking failures, testing process changes, and verifying the results.
• Keep printers ready for planned builds through calibration, preventive maintenance, troubleshooting, and timely replenishment of materials and consumables.
• Make builds repeatable with revision-controlled CAD and print files, process settings, material records, and documented inspection results.

Key Competencies

• Additive manufacturing execution: prepare and monitor builds, manage the print queue, and balance part quality, turnaround, and material use.
• Practical design judgment: connect geometry, material properties, orientation, supports, and tolerances to a part’s intended function.
• Methodical troubleshooting: isolate equipment, material, and file-related causes of defects, verify fixes, and escalate issues beyond your training.
• Quality and ownership: inspect your work, maintain accurate records, communicate risks early, and coordinate priorities with engineers.

Minimum Requirements

• 1-3 years of hands-on experience in additive manufacturing, rapid prototyping, model making, or manufacturing, including regular 3D printing.
• Ability to prepare, slice, set up, and troubleshoot builds using at least one additive process, such as FDM/FFF or SLA, and perform routine printer maintenance.
• Working knowledge of a 3D CAD tool, including basic part modifications, and the ability to interpret drawings, dimensions, and mechanical fits.
• Experience with calipers or similar inspection tools, basic post-processing and assembly, and accurate build and inspection records.
• Ability to work on-site in San Carlos, CA, follow equipment and material-handling procedures, and communicate clearly with engineers.

Preferred Skills

• Experience with multiple additive processes, such as FDM/FFF, SLA/DLP, SLS, or MJF, and a range of engineering polymers or resins.
• Experience managing material drying and storage, support removal, curing, finishing, and dimensional consistency across repeated builds.
• Familiarity with parametric CAD tools such as SolidWorks, NX, Creo, or Fusion; basic GD&T; and fixture or assembly-aid design.
• Robotics, automotive, or aerospace prototyping experience; technical training in additive manufacturing, machining, or a related field.

What Does a Successful 1X Team Member Look Like

• Team members at 1X who thrive here are builders.
• They move fast, own their work completely, and treat time like it’s the one thing you can’t get back - because it is.
• They say what they mean, finish what they start, and hold themselves to a standard before anyone has to ask.
• We push each other to be better, and we do it with honesty and respect.

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Generous paid time off, company holidays, and parental leave
• 401(k) plan with company match (100% on the first 3% of contributions, 50% on the next 2%)
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) and Health Savings Accounts (HSA) options
• Commuter benefits (transit and parking)
• Short-term and long-term disability, and life insurance
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for mental health, financial, and personal support
• Onsite snacks and catered lunches