Model Maker

Quala Inc.; Foster City (CA); On-site; USD 34,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

QUALA is seeking a hands-on Model Maker for a long-term contract on-site in Foster City, CA. You will create high-quality prototypes and first articles, working with CNC operation, setup, machining, and fabrication to support rapid iteration and precise part development.

You’ll collaborate with engineers, designers, fabricators, and other model makers to troubleshoot issues, optimize workflows, and contribute to continuous improvement of prototyping capabilities.

Qualifications

• 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 (SolidWorks, CATIA, etc.).

Responsibilities

• Set up, operate, and maintain CNC machines (mills, lathes, etc.) 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.
• Perform metalwork (milling, turning, drilling, shearing, bending, welding) to create prototypes and components.
• Work with composites, additive manufacturing (3D printing), and other advanced materials to support prototyping needs.
• Inspect parts for accuracy, finish, and adherence to blueprints or CAD models.

Skills

CNC operation

Engineering drawings

Quality control

Team collaboration

Education

Industrial design degree

Tools

SolidWorks

CATIA

Job description

Authorized to work in the U.S. with no sponsorship

QUALA is seeking a hands-on model maker for a long-term contract role working on-site in Foster City, CA. This is an exciting opportunity to work within an organization that is developing the first ground-up, fully autonomous vehicle and the supporting ecosystem required to bring this technology to market. They are transforming mobility-as-a-service by developing a fully autonomous, purpose-built fleet designed for AI to drive and humans to enjoy!

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 our prototyping capabilities.

Key Responsibilities:

CNC Operation and Setup:

• Set up, operate, and maintain CNC machines (mills, lathes, etc.)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 (e.g., 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 (SolidWorks, CATIA, etc.).

Technical Skills:

• Ability to use precision measuring tools (calipers, micrometers, CMM, etc.) 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 to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams.
• Commitment to continuous learning and adapting to new technologies and processes.

Bonus Qualifications:

• A degree in industrial design, engineering, or similar is a big plus.
• Knowledge of documentation tools like Jira or Confluence.
• Familiarity with shop management and process optimization.