Lead Prototype Machinist & Fabrication Specialist

DoorDash USA • San Francisco, CA

1d • $53 - $78 • Onsite

About The Position

About the Team DoorDash Labs is an independent team within DoorDash. We are working on building autonomous delivery robots from the ground up and other automation solutions as part of DoorDash's core delivery platform. If you have a passion for applying AI and robotics solutions in a service used by millions of people, then we want to talk to you! Please Note: This role is based in San Francisco, CA, and requires being in-person 5 days a week. About the Role We are seeking a master-level Lead Prototype Machinist & Fabrication Specialist to join the Prototype Integration (PI) Team. This is a high-impact role designed for a "maker" with a deep technical pedigree in both traditional and cutting-edge manufacturing. You will be the primary resource for the engineering team, responsible for transforming complex designs into high-precision physical hardware. You are an expert in 5-axis CNC machining, CNC lathes, and manual machining, as well as a power user of a diverse 3D printing fleet. When not machining, you will serve as a Prototype and Integration Technician, helping the team assemble and troubleshoot the robotic platforms you helped create.

Requirements

• Minimum 7+ years of experience in a high-precision machine shop, R&D lab, or prototype environment.
• Mastery of 5-axis CNC programming and operation, CNC lathes, and manual machining equipment.
• Proficiency in the use of precision measurement tools such as micrometers, calipers, bore gauges, and CMM.
• Hands-on experience managing professional-grade 3D printing platforms (e.g., Formlabs, Markforged, Carbon).
• Strong manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination required for precision assembly and tool operation.
• Ability to lift, carry, push, and pull materials and equipment weighing up to 50 pounds on a regular basis.
• Capacity to work in physically demanding environments, including standing for extended periods and working around machinery.
• High visual acuity to read blueprints, measure accurately, and perform detailed craftsmanship.
• Proficiency in CAD/CAM software (Mastercam, HSMWorks, Fusion 360, SolidWorks, or Onshape) for toolpath generation and model navigation.
• Willingness to wear and work safely with required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) including eye and ear protection.

Nice To Haves

• Advanced fabrication skills such as TIG/MIG welding or sheet metal fabrication.
• Experience in the robotics, aerospace, or automotive industry working on autonomous systems.
• Proficiency in electronics including reading schematics and performing basic soldering or wire harness fabrication.
• Familiarity with Linux or Python for basic robotic system testing and troubleshooting.
• Valid U.S. driver’s license

Responsibilities

• Operate and program 5-axis CNC machines, CNC lathes, and manual mills/lathes to produce high-tolerance prototype components.
• Oversee the daily operation, post-processing, and maintenance of 3D printing technologies including FDM, SLS, and SLA platforms.
• Design and fabricate custom jigs, fixtures, and specialized tooling to support complex assemblies and unique testing requirements.
• Interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, and CAD models to ensure all builds meet exact specifications.
• Provide feedback to Mechanical Engineers on Design for Manufacturability (DFM) to optimize part production.
• Perform preventative maintenance on all shop machinery and shop-specific equipment to ensure zero downtime.
• Manage inventory for machinist-specific consumables including cutting tools, inserts, coolants, resins, and filaments.
• Support the physical assembly, wiring, and mechanical troubleshooting of robotic delivery vehicles and test fixtures.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and OSHA-compliant machine shop environment.
• Lead EH&S efforts within the shop, including PPE compliance and hazardous material (MSDS) management.
• Use computers for documentation, record-keeping, and tracking of calibration schedules.
• Communicate effectively with the engineering team to prioritize high-urgency prototype requests.

Benefits

• DoorDash cares about you and your overall well-being. That’s why we offer a comprehensive benefits package to all regular employees, which includes a 401(k) plan with employer matching, 16 weeks of paid parental leave, wellness benefits, commuter benefits match, paid time off and paid sick leave in compliance with applicable laws (e.g. Colorado Healthy Families and Workplaces Act).
• DoorDash also offers medical, dental, and vision benefits, 11 paid holidays, disability and basic life insurance, family-forming assistance, and a mental health program, among others.
• To learn more about our benefits, visit our careers page here .
• See below for paid time off details:
• For salaried roles: flexible paid time off/vacation, plus 80 hours of paid sick time per year.
• For hourly roles: vacation accrued at about 1 hour for every 25.97 hours worked (e.g. about 6.7 hours/month if working 40 hours/week; about 3.4 hours/month if working 20 hours/week), and paid sick time accrued at 1 hour for every 30 hours worked (e.g. about 5.8 hours/month if working 40 hours/week; about 2.9 hours/month if working 20 hours/week).

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed