Prototyping Engineer - CNC Machinist
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.
Responsibilities
CAM programming and operation of all CNC and manual machining equipment CNC Machining of complex, multi-setup parts in metal and plastic Interact with design engineers on part functionality, advise on the part suitability for machining Partner with industrial designers on cosmetic and appearance models Establish programming, setup, and workholding best practices for the shop Identify large-scale problems that slow the team down and experiment with new processes and tools to solve them Develop tools and automations using AI coding tools to improve team throughput Clear communication of timelines and expectations to other groups within Meta Improve the systems and tools we rely on via continuous improvement Process documentation and mentorship of other machinists Responsible for part quality and inspection Ensuring that machines are properly maintained, that stock material supplies are adequate and that the shop is operated in a safe and professional manner
Qualifications
Bachelor's or associate's degree in machining, engineering, or fabrication and/or relevant work experience 8+ years of experience in manufacturing engineering and/or prototyping environment with advanced Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machine tools Experience programming and operating 5-axis milling equipment Advanced skills in Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM) software and CNC programming (Autodesk Fusion 360) Advanced CAD skills in Fusion 360 (SolidWorks, NX, Onshape) and fixture design Experience working with Industrial Design and in cosmetic model making Skilled in prototyping of complex electro-mechanical assemblies and familiar with typical shop tools Ability to learn and apply new design, manufacturing, and prototyping software tools Experience identifying and implementing process improvements in a rapid prototyping environment Willingness to experiment and iterate on solutions to large-scale problems Demonstrated ongoing AI skill development (e.g., prompt/context engineering, agent orchestration) and staying current with emerging AI technologies Experience with Wire EDM Demonstrated 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 team Exposure to code management and software engineering basics Experience with other technologies used in a modern digital prototyping lab, including additive, laser cutting, injection molding, and water jet Experience taking products from concept through to functional prototype or production Experience mentoring or training other machinists Experience 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 automations
Compensation: $173,000/year to $245,000/year + bonus + equity + benefits