Prototype Machinist

RivCut; Union City (CA); On-site; USD 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

RivCut is seeking a Prototype Machinist to set up and operate manual and CNC machines in Union City, CA, producing prototype and low-volume parts to tight tolerances. You will read engineering drawings, select materials, and program CNC equipment while collaborating with engineers and project managers to refine designs and processes.

The role requires hands-on prototyping experience, attention to detail, and the ability to work independently in a fast-paced environment.

Qualifications

• Strong machining skills with manual and CNC experience.
• Experience milling for prototype and low-volume production.
• CNC programming knowledge, including editing programs.
• Prototyping experience from concept to finished part.
• Ability to read drawings, GD&T, and inspect parts.
• Familiarity with metals and plastics, feeds speeds, and best practices for tight tolerances.
• Detail-oriented with problem-solving mindset.
• Vocational training or technical certification in machining; prior prototype or job-shop experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Read and interpret engineering drawings.
• Select materials and tooling.
• Program CNC equipment.
• Milling and turning for prototype and low-volume production.
• Inspect finished components and document measurements.
• Collaborate with engineers and project managers to refine designs.
• Maintain equipment and keep a safe, organized work area.
• Contribute to continuous improvement in throughput, quality, and manufacturability.

Skills

Manual machining

Lathe operations

Milling operations

CNC programming

Prototyping

GD&T reading

Metrology

Tooling selection

Reading drawings

Education

Vocational training / apprenticeship / technical certification in machining

Tools

CNC machines

G-code

Job description

Company Description RivCut partners with engineers, startups, and manufacturers in aerospace, medical device, robotics, and automotive industries to deliver precision parts that meet demanding specifications with speed and reliability. The company focuses on rapid prototyping and low-volume production to support R&D and new product development. RivCut provides full material sourcing, finishing, and quality inspection, ensuring dependable quality at every stage. Team members collaborate closely with clients, offering hands-on technical support and clear, transparent communication. The company values partnerships built on trust, clarity, and precision, creating an environment where technical craftsmanship and customer service are equally important.

Role Description The Prototype Machinist is a full-time, on-site role based in Union City, CA. This role is responsible for setting up and operating manual and CNC machines to produce prototype and low-volume parts to tight tolerances. Day-to-day tasks include reading and interpreting engineering drawings, selecting materials and tooling, programming CNC equipment, and performing machining operations such as milling and turning. The Prototype Machinist will inspect finished components, document measurements, and collaborate with engineers and project managers to refine designs and processes. Responsibilities also include maintaining equipment, ensuring a safe and organized work area, and contributing to continuous improvement in throughput, quality, and manufacturability.

Qualifications

• Strong machining skills, including experience with manual Machining and Lathe operations.
• Proficiency in Milling operations and setup for prototype and low-volume production.
• Hands-on experience with CNC Programming, including creating, modifying, and troubleshooting programs for complex parts.
• Demonstrated Prototyping experience, from concept to finished part, working closely with engineering teams.
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings, GD&T, and work instructions; strong measurement and inspection skills using calipers, micrometers, and other instruments.
• Familiarity with a variety of metals and plastics, cutting tools, feeds and speeds, and best practices for tight-tolerance machining.
• Attention to detail, problem-solving mindset, and ability to work independently in a fast-paced, R&D-focused environment.
• Relevant vocational training, apprenticeship, or technical certification in machining or manufacturing; prior experience in prototype or job-shop environments is preferred.