Prototyping Technician, 3D Printing

1X Technologies AS; Palo Alto (CA); On-site; USD 60,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading technology company seeks a Prototyping Technician in Palo Alto. This role involves running 3D printers, optimizing CAD models, and improving processes to enhance efficiency while maintaining quality. Ideal candidates will have significant hands-on experience with 3D printing, CAD software, and a strong ability to innovate and streamline workflows.

Qualifications

• Significant hands-on experience with various types of 3D Printers.
• Experience in CAD software for model optimization.
• Familiarity with automating 3D printing workflows.

Responsibilities

• Run and maintain 3D printers, including troubleshooting and post-processing.
• Collaborate with engineers to optimize CAD models for printability.
• Design tools and fixtures for prototype assembly.

Skills

3D printing experience

mechanical assembly

troubleshooting

automation

Education

CAD experience (Fusion 360, SolidWorks)

Experience with 3D printer operation

Tools

slicing software (PrusaSlicer, Cura)

3D printers

Job description

We’re looking for a Prototyping Technician with strong 3D printing experience and a mindset for continuous improvement. You’ll be responsible not just for printing and assembling prototype parts, but for improving how we do it—tuning processes, designing fixtures, and helping us move faster without sacrificing quality. This is a hands-on, full-time role based in Palo Alto, with room to grow into more ownership over time.

WHAT YOU’LL DO

• Run 3D printers: FDM, SLA, maybe SLS: queue jobs, dial in settings, troubleshoot, post-process

• Maintain and improve print systems: Keep machines running well and upgrade workflows as needed

• Optimize CAD models: Collaborate with engineers to improve printability and part quality

• Design tools and fixtures: Create simple jigs or test rigs to support builds and validation

• Assemble and test prototypes: Build mechanical systems and help validate functionality

• Document and refine processes: Track print settings, test results, and drive improvements

• Manage the lab: Maintain organization, supplies, and part flow

• Automate: Identify and implement ways to automate the 3D printing workflow so you and the team can focus rapid iteration

EXPERIENCE NEEDED

• Operate 3D printers – Significant hands-on experience with various types of 3D Printers

• Use slicing software – PrusaSlicer, Cura, PreForm, etc.

• Experience in CAD – Fusion 360, SolidWorks, Onshape, or similar

• Build and debug hardware – Confident with hands-on mechanical assembly and troubleshooting

GOOD TO HAVE

• Use multiple print methods – FDM, SLA, SLS, DLP, etc.

• Handle post-processing – Washing, curing, sanding, tapping, etc.

• Work with robotics or mechatronics – Experience building functional systems

• Build tools or rigs – Comfortable designing and iterating on basic fixtures

HOW YOU WORK

The prototyping team builds fast and solves real problems with limited time and tools. Engineers who succeed here tend to:

• Take ownership –You don’t just complete tasks - you own outcomes. You think long-term, take initiative, and hold yourself accountable for quality and results

• Move quickly – You make decisions and iterate without waiting for perfect inputs

• Learn and be curious – You ask questions, explore unfamiliar tools or ideas, and actively look for ways to improve yourself and the work

• Earn trust – You listen well, speak honestly, and treat people with respect. You hold a high bar for yourself and others, and you deliver reliably

• Be resourceful – You work around ambiguity and always find a way to keep momentum