Senior Mechanical R&D Technician - 1st Shift

SENIOR MECHANICAL R&D TECHNICIAN - 1ST SHIFT

Freeform is deploying software-defined, autonomous metal 3D printing factories around the world, bringing the scalability of software to physical production. Our proprietary technology stack leverages advanced sensing, real-time controls, and data-driven learning to produce digitally-verified, flawless parts at unprecedented speed and cost. Our mission is to make the transformative power of 3D printing available to all industries at scale and unlock the future of innovation.

As a Senior Mechanical R&D Technician at Freeform, you will work closely with the engineering team to fabricate, assemble, test, and develop custom hardware for our advanced metal 3D printing factory systems. You will also build-out and maintain critical infrastructure systems (air, water, and inert gases), and ensure that all onsite fabrication and R&D areas are outfitted with the required tools/equipment, remain clean/organized, and are being used safely. You will have an opportunity to use a variety of machines and tools including lathes, mills, bandsaws, grinders, precision drills, and wire EDMs. The right candidate for this role will be team-oriented and have a positive attitude with a “no job too big or small” mentality. If you enjoy hands-on work in a fast-paced development environment and are excited about creating cutting edge technology, we'd love to hear from you!

3D printing experience is not required to be successful here - rather we look for smart, motivated, collaborative individuals who love solving hard problems and creating amazing technology!

Responsibilities:  

• Act as the go-to resource for the engineering team in building critical hardware for advanced 3D printing machines 
• Use a variety of manufacturing tools including lathes, mills, bandsaws, grinders, precision drills, and wire EDMs 
• Work with custom additive manufacturing machinery, handle metal powders, process metal 3D printed parts 
• Perform planned maintenance and unplanned repairs on equipment including air compressors, water chillers, inert gas systems and general machine/fabrication shop equipment 
• Read and utilize schematics (mechanical, electrical, pneumatic, hydraulic) to troubleshoot systems down to the component level 
• Organize and improve shop operations; own process improvements from cradle to grave and build a first-class R&D shop 

Basic Qualifications:  

• 8+ years of experience in manufacturing or production 
• Experience working in an R&D or custom job shop environment 
• Experience building complex things with little work instructions or blue prints  

Nice to Have:  

• Skilled with manual machining, welding, cutting, fitting and/or bending of stainless steels, aluminums and high-strength nickel alloys
• Formal hardware-centric technical training/certification (A&P license, NTMA license)
• Ability to utilize power tools, hand tools, cranes, forklifts and other heavy equipment
• Use of precision measuring instruments
• Experience setting up and maintaining facility systems with a focus on air, water and cryogenic inert gas systems
• Ability to lift and/or move up to 50lbs unassisted
• Ability to climb ladders and be on your feet for extended periods of time
• Must be available and willing to work overtime when needed 

Location: 

• We are located in Hawthorne, CA in a 35,000 square foot, state-of-the-art facility featuring large open spaces for team collaboration, R&D, and production, as well as easy access to the 405, 105, and 110 freeways. Our facility is in the heart of Los Angeles' vibrant emerging tech ecosystem alongside many other high growth startups and enterprises. 

What We Offer: 

• We have an inclusive and diverse culture that values collaboration, learning, and making deliberate data-driven decisions. 
• We offer a unique opportunity to be an early and integral member of a rapidly growing company that is scaling a world-changing technology. 
• Benefits
  • Significant stock option packages
  • 100% employer-paid Medical, Dental, and Vision insuran