Machine Shop Manager
Company Overview:
At Slip Robotics, we are at the forefront of revolutionizing the logistics and automation industry with cutting-edge robotic solutions. Our mission is to transform the way goods move through the world by designing and building autonomous systems that enhance warehouse intelligence, optimize supply chains, and ensure workplace safety. We believe in the power of innovation and collaboration, and our team is dedicated to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in robotics. Join us and help shape the future of automation!
Position Overview:
We are seeking a Machine Shop Manager to build and lead our newly created machine shop with a primary focus on rapid prototyping, R&D support, and engineering iteration. This role is central to accelerating product development—partnering closely with Engineering to quickly fabricate, test, modify, and refine components as designs evolve.
While the shop will support limited production needs, the core mandate is speed, flexibility, and technical collaboration—not high-volume machining. The ideal candidate thrives in fast-paced development environments, can translate rough concepts into physical parts quickly, and understands how to balance precision with iteration velocity.
Key Responsibilities:
- Rapid Prototyping & R&D (Primary Focus)
- Partner directly with Engineering to fabricate prototype components, test fixtures, and development hardware with fast turnaround.
- Enable rapid iteration by quickly modifying parts, optimizing toolpaths, and adjusting setups as designs evolve.
- Provide design-for-manufacturability feedback early in the development cycle.
- Support experimental builds, mechanical validation testing, and small-batch development runs.
- Create flexible, reusable fixturing and processes that accelerate future iterations.
- Limited Production Support (Secondary)
- Support short-run and bridge-production needs such as edge extensions, tray feet, brackets, and other hardware when required.
- Maintain repeatable processes and documentation to ensure consistent quality for small-batch runs.
- Shop Ownership & Capability Building
- Establish a high-agility prototyping workflow and define best practices optimized for speed and experimentation.
- Operate and maintain CNC and manual equipment (mills, lathes, fiber laser, press brake, routers).
- Develop SOPs focused on safe, efficient prototype and low-volume production work.
- Document setups, toolpaths, and processes to enable fast re-runs and scaling when needed.
- Manage material flow and coordinate jobs within ERP systems.
Requirements
Experience and Skills Required:
- Strong CNC & CAM expertise, including 2D/3D toolpath creation and efficient G-code optimization.
- Demonstrated experience in prototype-driven or R&D-heavy environments.
- Ability to work directly with engineers to interpret evolving designs and incomplete specifications.
- Strong judgment on when to prioritize speed vs. precision in development builds.
- Deep understanding of shop safety and ability to train others.
- Shop Operations: Familiarity with fabrication equipment and machine shop best practices.
Experience and Skills Preferred:
- Robotics Exposure: Experience working in robotics, especially in prototyping or manufacturing environments.
- ERP/Inventory Systems: Experience using ERP systems to track materials or jobs.
- General Fabrication: Welding, deburring, tapping, or assembly experience is a plus.
- Documentation: Comfort documenting processes, setups, and toolpaths for repeatability.
Qualifications:
- Experience: Minimum 5 years of experience in a machine shop or fabrication setting.
- Education: Technical training, certifications, or equivalent practical experience.
- Travel: Little to no travel required.
- Physical: Able to lift and carry up to 50 pounds; comfortable working on your feet.
- Attitude: You take ownership, thrive on independence, and are excited to build something new. You bring a “can do” attitude and a commitment to safety, quality, and service.
Benefits
Why Slip Robotics?
- Innovative Environment: Work on groundbreaking robotic systems that are shaping the future of logistics.
- Collaborative Team: Be a part of a passionate, talented team where your input and expertise matter.
- Professional Growth: Opportunities to learn, grow, and advance in the exciting field of robotics and automation.
How to Apply: If you're ready to make an impact and work with a forward-thinking team at the cutting edge of robotics, apply now to join Slip Robotics!