Machine Shop Technician

About the Role

We are looking for a Machine Shop Technician with a primary focus on CNC Waterjet operation to support our rapid prototyping and manufacturing teams. In this role, you will load, program, and operate a CNC waterjet cutting system while providing critical cross-functional support across our brake press, shear, and welding stations. A strong background in sheet metal fabrication, proficiency with CNC nesting software, and a flexible, problem-solving mindset are essential.

Responsibilities

• Review assigned Jira tickets to determine material, tooling, and nesting requirements with autonomy.
• Sort through tasks using the Critical Path Method to complete assigned fabrication requests in the most optimal order to meet deadlines and increase machine uptime.
• Discuss with engineering teams issues related to manufacturability or timing, provide Design for Manufacturing (DFM) feedback, and modify submitted parts in CAD (Fusion 360) as discussed to ensure successful completion of tasks.
• Program, nest, and process parts using waterjet CAD/CAM software to maximize material yield and minimize scrap.
• Setup and operate the CNC waterjet system, adjusting nozzle alignment, abrasive feed rates, and pump pressure parameters for a wide variety of materials.
• Provide immediate setup and operational support to secondary fabrication departments, including the brake press and shear, utilizing blueprint bend allowances.
• Support the welding department by prepping, deburring, and jigging parts, and performing basic production or tack welding (MIG/TIG) as needed to maintain workflow.
• Perform inspection tasks to ensure parts conform to required critical dimensions and specifications utilizing advanced GD&T and engineering drawing reading abilities, using standard measurement equipment (calipers, micrometers, protractors, height gauges).
• Safely operate material handling equipment, including forklifts and overhead cranes, to load large sheets of raw materials onto the cutting beds.
• Perform routine machine maintenance including monitoring filters, abrasive garnet removal, pump seal checks, and nozzle/orifice replacements.
• Continuous improvement of the overall processes on an ongoing basis.
• Sustain curiosity to explore new materials, technologies, manufacturing methods, and workflows that can benefit our capabilities.
• Implement and follow standardized workflows to improve efficiency.
• Maintain close communication with software vendors to troubleshoot and improve software workflow.

Qualifications

• Waterjet Expertise: Proven experience programming, setting up, and operating Omax waterjet cutting systems.
• Software Proficiency: Hands-on proficiency with Omax IntelliMAX software for nesting and cutting optimization, alongside Fusion 360 for CAD/CAM modeling and part modification.
• General Fabrication: Strong multidisciplinary background in metal fabrication, including hands-on experience with:
  • Welding: Basic production or tack welding capabilities (MIG/TIG) for component assembly.
  • Shearing & Punching: Operation of manual or hydraulic shears and punching machinery to prepare sheet metal blanking.
  • Benching: Skilled in finishing processes including deburring, grinding, sanding, and part preparation.
  • Light Machining: Familiarity running basic machine shop equipment (e.g., drill presses, band saws, manual mills/lathes) to support prototype workflows.
• Blueprint & Math Literacy: Exceptional ability to read complex engineering drawings and apply standard shop math (decimals, fractions, geometry) to daily production.
• Material Handling & Physical Demands: Experience operating forklifts and overhead cranes safely; ability to lift up to 50 lbs and stand for full shifts in a dynamic shop environment.

Pay

The hourly pay range for this role is $34.17–$42.71 for Normal, IL-based applicants. This is the lowest to highest salary we in good faith believe we would pay for this role at the time of this posting. An employee’s position within the salary range will be based on several factors including, but not limited to, specific competencies, relevant education, qualifications, certifications, experience, skills, geographic location, shift, and organizational needs. The successful candidate may be eligible for annual performance bonus and equity awards.

Benefits

We offer a comprehensive package of benefits for full-time and part-time employees, their spouse or domestic partner, and children up to age 26, including but not limited to:

• Paid vacation and paid sick leave.
• A competitive portfolio of insurance benefits including life, medical, dental, vision, short-term disability insurance, and long-term disability insurance to eligible employees.
• Opportunity to participate in Rivian’s 401(k) Plan and Employee Stock Purchase Program if you meet certain eligibility requirements.

Full-time employee coverage is effective on their first day of employment. Part-time employee coverage is effective the first of the month following 90 days of employment. More information about benefits is available at rivianbenefits.com.