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Assistant Prototype Model Shop Jobs in California

Apex Informatics

Fabricator

Mountain View, CA · On-site

$21.50 - $28/hr

We are seeking a highly skilled and precision-focused Fabricator to join our Model Shop/Machine Shop team. This role is critical for the rapid development and iteration of physical prototypes that ...

Observable Space

Prototype Machinist

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$95K - $130K/yr

Work from SolidWorks models and technical drawings to produce high-tolerance parts. * Prepare CAM ... for rapid prototyping. * Assist in maintaining, upgrading, and tuning machines and shop ...

New

Observable Space

Prototype Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$95K - $130K/yr

Work from SolidWorks models and technical drawings to produce high-tolerance parts. * Prepare CAM ... for rapid prototyping. * Assist in maintaining, upgrading, and tuning machines and shop ...

LEMO Group

Machinist - Model Maker II

Rohnert Park, CA · On-site

... * Assist in assembly tool development for existing & new product designs. Typical Working ... shop equipment and tools * Working knowledge of precision inspection tools to verify prototype and ...

LEMO GROUP

Machinist - Model Maker II

Rohnert Park, CA · On-site

... * Assist in assembly tool development for existing & new product designs. Typical Working ... shop equipment and tools * Working knowledge of precision inspection tools to verify prototype and ...

Etched

Prototype Engineering Lead

San Jose, CA · On-site

$180 - $260/hr

Build the systems that make a shop run: work intake and prioritization, quoting, scheduling ... model sizes. Our addressable market is the entirety of inference, unlike many of our competitors.

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Assistant Prototype Model Shop information

What is an assistant prototype model shop?

Assistant Prototype Model Shop jobs involve supporting the creation and assembly of prototypes and models, often for engineering, design, or manufacturing purposes. Individuals in this role typically help with tasks such as preparing materials, operating basic machinery, maintaining tools, and assisting senior technicians or model makers. They may also be responsible for keeping the work area organized and ensuring projects stay on schedule. These positions require attention to detail, manual dexterity, and the ability to follow instructions closely. The role is an entry point for those interested in model making, engineering, or product design.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an assistant prototype model shop?

To thrive as an Assistant Prototype Model Shop, you need strong mechanical aptitude, hands-on fabrication skills, and familiarity with prototyping processes, often supported by a technical diploma or relevant experience. Proficiency with tools such as CNC machines, 3D printers, and CAD software, along with safety certifications, is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication help individuals collaborate and adapt to evolving project demands. These skills ensure accurate prototype creation, efficient workflow, and safe, high-quality output in a fast-paced development environment.

What are some common challenges faced by an assistant prototype model shop employee, and how can they be overcome?

Assistant Prototype Model Shop employees often encounter challenges such as tight project deadlines, adapting to evolving design requirements, and working with unfamiliar materials or fabrication techniques. To overcome these challenges, it's important to maintain strong communication with engineers and designers, be proactive in seeking clarification on project specifications, and continually develop hands-on skills through on-the-job learning. Collaborating closely with team members and staying organized can also help ensure prototypes are completed accurately and efficiently.

What is the difference between Assistant Prototype Model Shop vs Prototype Model Maker?

AspectAssistant Prototype Model ShopPrototype Model Maker
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; technical trainingTechnical training or certification in model making
Work EnvironmentManufacturing or workshop setting, assisting senior staffWorkshop or studio, creating detailed prototypes
Employer & IndustryAutomotive, aerospace, product design companiesSimilar industries, often working independently or in teams
Primary ResponsibilitiesSupporting model making tasks, preparing materialsBuilding, assembling, and finishing prototype models

The Assistant Prototype Model Shop role primarily involves supporting and assisting senior model makers in a workshop environment, focusing on preparation and support tasks. In contrast, Prototype Model Makers are responsible for creating detailed, finished prototypes. Both roles require technical skills and industry experience, but the Model Maker role involves more hands-on creation and craftsmanship.

What are popular job titles related to Assistant Prototype Model Shop jobs in California?

For Assistant Prototype Model Shop jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Assistant Prototype Model Shop jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Assistant Prototype Model Shop jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Assistant Prototype Model Shop jobs?

Cities in California with the most Assistant Prototype Model Shop job openings:

Assistant Prototype Model Shop jobs near you
Infographic showing various Assistant Prototype Model Shop job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Sr. Prototype Model Fabricator

Costa Mesa, CA • On-site

Anduril Industries
Guided Missile and Space Vehicle Manufacturing • 501 - 1,000 employees

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Based on 17 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Great coworkers

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Learn more about Anduril Industriesexternal

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

ABOUT THE TEAM

The Model Shop is a new in-house capability that partners with Design, Engineering, and business stakeholders to turn digital concepts into full-scale, presentation-quality physical models. These models help teams communicate design intent, evaluate physical form, and showcase Anduril products to customers and other stakeholders. By bringing this capability in house, the team will improve speed, iteration, craftsmanship, and control while reducing significant reliance on external vendors. 

ABOUT THE JOB

We are looking for a Prototype Model Fabricator to join our rapidly growing team in Costa Mesa, Ca. In this role you will be part of the Model Shop team, building scale physical design and aerodynamic models utilizing a wide range of model making disciplines.

WHAT YOU'LL DO

  • Build scale physical design models utilizing a wide range of model-making techniques (i.e., metal, plastic, composite fabrication, woodworking, surface, and paint).
  • Execute final surface prepping, hand-sanding, bonding, and priming to ensure a flawless finish.
  • Read and interpret design blueprints and technical drawings.
  • Collaborate with designers, engineers, and fellow fabricators.
  • Utilize and help maintain shop machinery and equipment.
  • Monitor and report shop consumables inventory needs.
  • Maintain strict accuracy and quality standards.
  • Participate in team meetings to improve workflow and efficiency.
  • Keep the shop organized, clean, and safe.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

  • 10+ years experience in physical model builds
  • Ability to operate machining, fabrication, wood working equipment (manual mill/lathe, bench grinders, variety of saws, shears, etc.)
  • Sheet metal fabrication experience (using press brakes, finger brakes, slip rollers, bead rollers, and other forming equipment)
  • Welding (GMAW/FCAW/GTAW) of steel, stainless, and aluminum with 5+ years experience
  • Ability to work through Model Making tasks with limited oversight (evaluate, design, order materials, execute)
  • Ability to fit, surface and paint high quality physical models
  • High level of mechanical aptitude (aerospace/automotive/motorsports background)
  • Strong attention to detail and pride in workmanship
  • Advanced knowledge of engineering design and model making procedures
  • Ability to multi-task
  • Ability to work overtime and weekends
  • Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, demanding, flexible team environment
  • U.S. Person status is required as this position needs to access export controlled data

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

  • CAD experience
  • Additive Manufacturing experience
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About Anduril Industries

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Anduril Industries is a trailblazer in the technology industry based in Costa Mesa, CA, US. Founded in 2017 by Palmer Luckey, the creator of Oculus VR, the company focuses on developing innovative technology to equip and empower those in the defense sector. Its primary products include cutting-edge autonomous systems and AI software that assist in combating threats to national and global security. The mission of Anduril Industries is to integrate technology and defense by building transformative, scalable solutions that ensure a safer world.

Industry

Guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Costa Mesa, CA, US

Year founded

2017

Social media

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Working at Anduril

About Anduril, in their own words

From Anduril

As the world enters an era of strategic competition, Anduril delivers cutting-edge autonomy, AI, computer vision, sensor fusion, and networking technology to the warfighter in months, not years.

What Anduril employees say

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Benefits

Hours and flexibility

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