Rapid Prototyping Technician

Neuralink; San Francisco (CA); On-site; USD 50,000 - 83,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Meals provided

Equity (RSUs)

401(k) plan

Paid holidays

Parental leave

Flexible time off

Medical insurance (PPO)

Job summary

Neuralink is seeking a Rapid Prototyping Technician to bring innovative designs from concept to tangible parts. You will own 3D printing from intake to hand-off, operate lasers, and fabricate components for wearable or flexible assemblies.

You will maintain clean prototyping spaces, collaborate with design teams, and manage multiple projects under tight schedules. The role requires hands-on fabrication experience, the ability to read blueprints, and strong problem-solving.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Experience in fabrication or machining with understanding of manufacturing processes.
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings/blueprints.
• Proficiency with 3D printers, lasers, and hand tools.
• Strong problem-solving and attention to detail; effective team player.

Responsibilities

• Own 3D printing from intake to hand-off and maintain safety of systems (FDM, SLA, MJP).
• Operate and maintain laser systems (CO2/UV) and perform material testing.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to troubleshoot and optimize designs for production.
• Fabricate soft goods and wearables via sewing and pattern following.
• Maintain and organize prototyping space, perform cleaning and preventive maintenance.
• Document prototyping processes and machine settings; track materials and changes.

Skills

3D printing

Laser operation

Hand tools

Reading blueprints

Problem solving

Team collaboration

Welding/assembly

Education

High School Diploma or equivalent

Technical certification or associate degree

Tools

CNC milling

Manual milling

Lathe

SolidWorks

Rhino

Adobe Creative Suite

Sewing equipment

Job description

We are creating devices that enable a bi-directional interface with the brain. These devices allow us to restore movement to the paralyzed, restore sight to the blind, and revolutionize how humans interact with their digital world.

Team Description:

The Machine Shop Team is responsible for supporting the entire company from machining high-precision robot prototype parts, to small batch runs for the Implant team, and also providing design and fabrication support for animal care teams. The Machine Shop team operates with a great sense of urgency. The team enables engineers to iterate quickly as we strive to create the world's best and most manufacturable Brain Computer Interface.

Job Description and Responsibilities:

As a Rapid Prototyping Technician, you'll play a crucial role in bringing innovative designs to life. We're seeking a mechanically-inclined individual who thrives on problem-solving and is passionate about fabrication methods. You are knowledgeable of each stage of the prototyping process, from conceptualization to manufacturing, ensuring the feasibility and efficiency of our designs. The ideal candidate will be responsible for organizing and maintaining prototyping spaces, ensuring they are all in a tidy and optimal working condition. You will be engaged with many day-to-day responsibilities including setup, running, post-processing, and cleaning of the parts we create.

• This role owns 3D printing from intake to hand-off and commits to safe operation and maintenance of FDM, SLA, MJP, and other 3D Printing systems
• Safe operation and maintenance of laser machines, including CO2 and UV laser systems, parametric tuning, and material testing
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to troubleshoot issues and optimize designs for production, give clear written and verbal updates
• Fabricate soft goods, including sewing, cutting, and pattern following for wearable or flexible assemblies
• Maintain and clean workspace and prototyping equipment, including preventative maintenance and inventory management of consumables
• Collaborate with design teams to understand project requirements and translate concepts into tangible prototypes
• Manage multiple projects simultaneously, prioritizing tasks to meet tight deadlines and production schedules, estimate effort level and deliver on time with minimal guidance
• Document all stages of the prototyping process, including materials used, machine settings, and any modifications made
• Stay updated on emerging technologies and fabrication techniques, continuously expanding your skill set and knowledge base
• Safe material and equipment handling at all times; adhere to shop safety for all personnel accessing the space (experience in regulated environments is a plus)

Required Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Proven experience in a fabrication or machining role, with a strong understanding of manufacturing processes
• Proficiency in operating a variety of machines and tools, such as 3D printers, lasers, and hand tools
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and blueprints
• Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail, with the ability to identify and address potential issues early in the prototyping process
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively in a team environment
• Adaptability and willingness to learn new skills and techniques as needed
• A well organized individual
• Ability to work flexible hours as job duties demand, evening and/or weekend coverage if necessary
• Ability to lift and transfer up to 50 pounds

Preferred Qualifications:

• 3+ years of hands-on experience in product model making, rapid prototyping, or an equivalent fabrication environment. (Candidates with less experience but the right skill set, attitude, and initiative will be considered)
• Technical certification or associate degree in a related field (Engineering, Design, Materials, or equivalent)
• Proficiency in operating a variety of machine tools including CNC and manual mills and lathes
• Experience with small and delicate assemblies where precision is critical. Strong fine motor skills and manual dexterity
• Experience in a regulated or safety-conscious environment (medical devices preferred)
• Formal safety training or certification (laser safety, chemical handling, PPE compliance)
• CAD experience (SolidWorks, Rhino) including basic CAD for jigs and fixtures
• Adobe Creative Suite familiarity
• Sewing or soft goods fabrication background
• High-quality surface finishing experience -- plastics and metals from high polish to fine matte texture
• A working knowledge of adhesives
• Experience manufacturing tooling, jigs, and fixtures
• Experience assisting with equipment installation and lab moves

Expected Compensation:At Neuralink, your base pay is one part of your total compensation package. The anticipated hourly rate for this position is expected to be within the below range. Your actual base pay will be determined by your job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training.

Hourly Range: $35.58 USD - $59.13 USD

What We Offer:

Full-time employees are eligible for the following benefits listed below.

• An opportunity to change the world and work with some of the smartest and most talented experts from different fields
• Growth potential; we rapidly advance team members who have an outsized impact
• Excellent medical, dental, and vision insurance through a PPO plan
• Paid holidays
• Meals provided
• Equity (RSUs) *Temporary Employees & Interns excluded
• 401(k) plan *Interns initially excluded until they work 1,000 hours
• Parental leave *Temporary Employees & Interns excluded
• Flexible time off *Temporary Employees & Interns excluded