Prototyping Engineer - CNC Machinist

Facebook App; Seattle (WA); On-site; USD 173,000 - 245,000; Full time

Job summary

Meta Reality Labs is seeking a seasoned CNC machinist and prototyping leader to drive complex multi-setup machining and fixtures across a fast-paced prototyping facility in Seattle. You will partner with mechanical engineering and industrial design to optimize part manufacturability, implement AI-driven automation, and mentor a growing team of machinists.

The role requires 8+ years in manufacturing engineering or prototyping, strong CAM/CAD expertise (Fusion 360, SolidWorks), and hands-on

Qualifications

• 8+ years of experience in manufacturing engineering or prototyping environment.
• Experience programming and operating 5-axis milling equipment.
• Advanced CAD skills and fixture design.
• Experience with Fusion 360 and CAM software.
• Ability to lead tooling, fixtures, and process improvements.

Responsibilities

• Lead CAM programming and operation of CNC and manual equipment.
• Machine complex multi-setup parts in metal and plastic.
• Collaborate with design engineers to verify part functionality.
• Develop fixtures and workholding for efficient production.
• Drive AI-enabled process improvements and automation.
• Mentor other machinists and document processes.

Skills

CNC programming

CAM software

5-axis milling

AI automation

Education

Bachelor's or Associate's degree in machining/engineering/fabrication

Tools

Fusion 360

SolidWorks

NX

Onshape

Job description

Meta Reality Labs is connecting the world by building products and hardware devices. Many of these products are custom designed for unique requirements and integrate advanced technologies. We are seeking a Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machinist and prototyping leader to join our mechanical prototyping facility, drive process improvements and contribute to the development of next-generation hardware products. In this role, you will lead the programming and machining of complex multi-setup parts and assemblies, coordinate closely across engineering teams to debug designs, develop advanced fixtures and workholding, and drive precise assembly work. As a technical leader, you will lead operational improvements and process development across the shop, leveraging AI tools to identify opportunities for automation, efficiency, and workflow optimization. Working across a wide variety of materials—from specialized plastics to hard metals—you will tackle complex challenges to continuously elevate team standards and impact.Our prototyping facility features advanced 5-axis and 3-axis CNC machine tools, laser cutting, 5-axis waterjet cutting, and manual machining equipment. You will own the safe setup, operation, and maintenance of this gear, including tooling and fixture specification and procurement.You will serve as a key partner and cross-functional coordinator with mechanical engineering and industrial design teams to solve complex design and manufacturing challenges. We are looking for a leader excited to establish the fastest, efficient paths from CAD models to finished parts through AI-driven automation, robust process design, and team mentorship.Prototyping Engineer - CNC Machinist Responsibilities:CAM programming and operation of all CNC and manual machining equipmentCNC Machining of complex, multi-setup parts in metal and plasticInteract with design engineers on part functionality, advise on the part suitability for machiningPartner with industrial designers on cosmetic and appearance modelsEstablish programming, setup, and workholding best practices for the shopIdentify large-scale problems that slow the team down and experiment with new processes and tools to solve themDevelop tools and automations using AI coding tools to improve team throughputClear communication of timelines and expectations to other groups within MetaImprove the systems and tools we rely on via continuous improvementProcess documentation and mentorship of other machinistsResponsible for part quality and inspectionEnsuring that machines are properly maintained, that stock material supplies are adequate and that the shop is operated in a safe and professional mannerMinimum Qualifications:Bachelor's or associate's degree in machining, engineering, or fabrication and/or relevant work experience8+ years of experience in manufacturing engineering and/or prototyping environment with advanced Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machine toolsExperience programming and operating 5-axis milling equipmentAdvanced skills in Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM) software and CNC programming (Autodesk Fusion 360)Advanced CAD skills in Fusion 360 (SolidWorks, NX, Onshape) and fixture designExperience working with Industrial Design and in cosmetic model makingSkilled in prototyping of complex electro-mechanical assemblies and familiar with typical shop toolsAbility to learn and apply new design, manufacturing, and prototyping software toolsExperience identifying and implementing process improvements in a rapid prototyping environmentWillingness to experiment and iterate on solutions to large-scale problemsPreferred Qualifications:Demonstrated ongoing AI skill development (e.g., prompt/context engineering, agent orchestration) and staying current with emerging AI technologiesExperience with Wire EDMDemonstrated ability to integrate AI tools to optimize/redesign workflows and drive measurable impact (e.g., efficiency gains, quality improvements)Proven track record of improvements adopted across a teamExposure to code management and software engineering basicsExperience with other technologies used in a modern digital prototyping lab, including additive, laser cutting, injection molding, and water jetExperience taking products from concept through to functional prototype or productionExperience mentoring or training other machinistsExperience adhering to and implementing responsible, ethical AI practices (e.g., risk assessment, bias mitigation, quality and accuracy reviews)Experience using AI coding tools to develop shop tools and automationsAbout Meta:Meta builds technologies that help people connect, find communities, and grow businesses. When Facebook launched in 2004, it changed the way people connect. Apps like Messenger, Instagram and WhatsApp further empowered billions around the world. Now, Meta is moving beyond 2D screens toward immersive experiences like augmented and virtual reality to help build the next evolution in social technology. People who choose to build their careers by building with us at Meta help shape a future that will take us beyond what digital connection makes possible today—beyond the constraints of screens, the limits of distance, and even the rules of physics.Meta is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, religion, color, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, transgender status, sexual stereotypes, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics. We also consider qualified applicants with criminal histories, consistent with applicable federal, state and local law. Meta participates in the E-Verify program in certain locations, as required by law. Please note that Meta may leverage artificial intelligence and machine learning technologies in connection with applications for employment.Meta is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for candidates with disabilities in our recruiting process. If you need any assistance or accommodations due to a disability, please let us know at [e-mail].$173,000/year to $245,000/year + bonus + equity + benefitsIndividual compensation is determined by skills, qualifications, experience, and location. Compensation details listed in this posting reflect the base hourly rate, monthly rate, or annual salary only, and do not include bonus, equity or sales incentives, if applicable. In addition to base compensation, Meta offers benefits. Learn more about benefits at Meta.