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Maker Lab Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Prototype Fabricator

Sunnyvale, CA

$51.19 - $89.84/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Retirement

We are looking for a hands-on maker with expertise in a variety of fabrication methods and tool making to join a small, high-impact advanced fabrication lab that builds prototypes for ...

CNC Machinist (Mill)

Glendale, CA · On-site

$30 - $35/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • PTO

Maintain lab/shop tools and consumables. * Setup CNC Mills and Lathes and run programs on samples ... Onsite Expresso/Coffee maker/Vending machines & refillable water provided. * Onsite parking lot.

Bike Service Specialist

Downey, CA

$17.25 - $22/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

Who We Are XDS is the world's largest bicycle maker by volume and the world's largest producer of carbon-fiber frames. We are entering the U.S. market for the first time with X-LAB, our in-house ...

Bike Service Specialist

Downey, CA · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

Who We Are XDS is the world's largest bicycle maker by volume and the world's largest producer of carbon-fiber frames. We are entering the U.S. market for the first time with X-LAB, our in-house ...

Bike Service Specialist

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$17.75 - $23/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

Who We Are XDS is the world's largest bicycle maker by volume and the world's largest producer of carbon-fiber frames. We are entering the U.S. market for the first time with X-LAB, our in-house ...

Industrial Designer - DoorDash Dot

San Francisco, CA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

You'll use your hands (sketchbook, 3D printers, lasercutters, materials lab) as well as CAD, a true maker + designer role. * You will help define the future of our product platform: how it looks, how ...

Growth Marketing Manager

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$95K - $125K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

Who We Are XDS is the world's largest bicycle maker by volume and the world's largest producer of carbon-fiber frames. We are entering the U.S. market for the first time with X-LAB, our in-house ...

Growth Marketing Manager

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$95K - $125K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

Who We Are XDS is the world's largest bicycle maker by volume and the world's largest producer of carbon-fiber frames. We are entering the U.S. market for the first time with X-LAB, our in-house ...

Showing results 41-60

Maker Lab information

What is a Maker Lab?

A Maker Lab is a collaborative workspace where people with shared interests—such as technology, engineering, crafts, or digital fabrication—can gather to work on projects, share knowledge, and use specialized tools and equipment. These labs often provide access to resources like 3D printers, laser cutters, electronics, and woodworking tools that might be too expensive or impractical for individuals to own. Maker Labs are popular in schools, libraries, and community centers, encouraging hands-on learning and innovation. They are open to people of all skill levels, from beginners to experienced makers.

What are the typical responsibilities and challenges faced by professionals working in a Maker Lab environment?

Professionals in a Maker Lab are often responsible for maintaining equipment like 3D printers and laser cutters, assisting users with project design and execution, and ensuring adherence to safety protocols. A common challenge is balancing hands-on technical support with project management, especially when multiple users require assistance simultaneously. Maker Lab staff frequently collaborate with students, educators, or community members, requiring strong communication and problem-solving skills. Additionally, staying updated with evolving technologies and teaching best practices are key aspects of the role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Maker Lab technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Maker Lab Technician, you need a solid understanding of fabrication techniques, prototyping, and basic engineering or design principles, often supported by a relevant technical degree or hands-on experience. Familiarity with tools such as 3D printers, laser cutters, CNC machines, and software like CAD is typically required, along with safety certifications. Strong problem-solving abilities, creativity, and effective communication are vital soft skills for collaborating with users and troubleshooting projects. These skills enable safe, efficient, and innovative operations in the lab, supporting diverse projects and user needs.

What is the difference between Maker Lab vs Fabricator?

AspectMaker LabFabricator
CredentialsOften no formal certifications required; focus on skills and creativityMay require technical certifications or experience in manufacturing
Work EnvironmentCreative spaces, workshops, educational settingsIndustrial facilities, manufacturing plants
Industry UsageEducation, prototyping, DIY projectsMass production, custom fabrication
Common Search IntentLearning, prototyping, hobbyist projectsProduction, custom manufacturing

Maker Labs are typically creative, educational spaces focused on prototyping and DIY projects, often with minimal formal credentials. Fabricators work in industrial settings, handling large-scale manufacturing and requiring technical skills or certifications. While Maker Labs emphasize innovation and learning, fabricators focus on production efficiency and technical precision.

What are popular job titles related to Maker Lab jobs in California?

For Maker Lab jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Maker Lab jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Maker Lab jobs in California are:

Infographic showing various Maker Lab job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution.

Robotics Prototyping Engineer (Special Projects)

Apple, Inc.

Santa Clara, CA • On-site

Other

Re-posted 11 hours ago


Apple rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 677 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7th of 30 rated technology retailers


Job description

We are seeking a hands-on prototyping engineer to build, integrate, and manage the robotic and mechatronic systems at the heart of our research lab. This is a maker's role: you'll turn ideas into working hardware, stand up robot platforms, design and fabricate custom mechanisms and electronics, and write the low-level software that ties it all together. Unlike a traditional AI research role, this position lives at the intersection of mechanical design, electronics, controls, and software - with room to contribute to algorithmic and research work as systems mature. You will work alongside world-class researchers and engineers, contributing to technologies that power the Apple ecosystem and, where appropriate, publishing in top-tier scientific venues.
If you love building things - turning ideas into hardware, bringing up new robots, and writing the software that makes them move - we would love to hear from you!
Description
We are a team of best-in-the-world research scientists and engineers with deep experience in computer vision, machine learning, robotics, computer graphics, and related areas. We work on exciting new technologies that bring joy to millions of people. In our daily work, the team stays innovative, productive, and fun by sharing some key values:
Passion for the mission: We're here to make something extraordinary. We seek whatever work is right and strive for the best possible results.
Modesty: The right answer is more significant than being right. We search for solutions as a team and value clear-eyed feedback.
Lean habits: You can't grow without limits. Time constraints and big goals encourage us to sharpen our focus and learn to make phenomenal decisions.
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor's, Master's, or PhD in Robotics, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field - or equivalent hands-on experience.
Demonstrated prototyping ability: a track record of building functional hardware systems end to end.
Hands-on experience with 3D CAD modeling (SolidWorks, Fusion 360) and fabrication (3D printing, CNC machining, etc.).
Experience setting up and integrating robotic systems - mechanical assembly, actuation, and sensing.
Proficiency with electronics, including PCB design, embedded systems, and sensor integration.
Strong programming skills in Python and C++, including low-level/embedded and systems software.
Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to iterate quickly based on feedback and technical constraints.
Preferred Qualifications
Experience in hardware/software co-design.
Experience managing or operating a lab, hardware inventory, or shared experimental facilities.
Experience developing algorithms for estimation, control, or sensor fusion.
Familiarity with simulation tools for system design and validation.
Experience with various sensor modalities (LiDAR, cameras, IMUs, force/torque, etc.).
Familiarity with reinforcement learning, planning algorithms, autonomous navigation, or full-body motion control.
Interest in contributing to research and publishing in top-tier scientific venues.

What Apple employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Apple logo

About Apple

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Imagine what you could do here! At Apple, new ideas have a way of becoming extraordinary products, services, and customer experiences very quickly. Bring passion and dedication to your job and there's no telling what you could accomplish. Dynamic, intelligent people and inspiring, innovative technologies are the norm here. The people who work here have reinvented entire industries with all Apple Hardware products. The same real passion for innovation that goes into our products also applies to our practices strengthening our dedication to leave the world better than we found it.

Industry

Computer and electronic product manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Cupertino, CA, US

Year founded

1976