Welder
Los Angeles, CA
Production /
Full-time /
On-site
About Machina Labs
Machina Labs was founded in 2019 to redefine how the world manufactures. Based in Los Angeles, we are pioneering the software-defined factories of the future—where advanced robotics and artificial intelligence replace rigid tooling and enable rapid, flexible production at any scale.
Our mission is simple yet transformative: unlock manufacturing and unconstrained innovation. By developing modular robotic forming systems, we empower industries such as aerospace, automotive, and defense to design, prototype, and produce with unprecedented speed, efficiency, and sustainability.
Backed by leading deep-tech investors, including NVIDIA’s NVentures, Innovation Endeavors, and Lockheed Martin Ventures, Machina Labs is building the first commercial robotic sheet metal forming machines—creating a future where manufacturing is as agile and adaptive as software.
Every day, we work side by side with some of the world’s most innovative organizations to solve their toughest challenges and accelerate the pace of progress. At Machina Labs, we’re not just building robots; we’re reshaping entire industries.
Join us as we bring the factory of the future to life!
About the Role
The Welding Manufacturing Engineer will focus on designing, developing, and optimizing weld tooling and processes to support production. The position will be responsible for ensuring compliance with industry standards, particularly AWS D17.1 Aerospace Welding Specifications, and for driving continuous improvements in weld quality and efficiency. A strong background in welding tanks and structural assemblies is preferred. The Welding Manufacturing Engineer will also be involved in the development of manufacturing methods, documentation of processes, and deployment of best practices to ensure high-quality welds in aerospace applications.
This position requires access to information controlled under the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) or the Export Administration Regulations (EAR), so the successful candidate must meet the U.S. person requirements as defined by ITAR and EAR regulations.
What You'll Do:
- Set up, fit, and weld thin-wall components and assemblies (tanks, rings, skins, brackets) to AWS D17.1 and customer specs.
- Perform Laser and GTAW on aluminum, stainless, titanium, and nickel alloys per WPS.
- Build and use fixtures; plan sequence, heat input, and clamping strategy to control distortion.
- Execute purge setups (argon back-purge, dams) for titanium/stainless; ensure weld cleanliness and prep (degrease, edge prep, dedicated brushes).
- Read prints & GD&T, travelers, WPS/PQRs; hold tight tolerances on thin-gauge materials.
- Run weld coupons and assist with welder/procedure qualifications; maintain complete parametric records and traceability in MRP/travelers.
- Safely operate/assist robotic welding cells (basic teach, fixture changeover, torch/consumable maintenance).
- Partner with Engineers/Quality on continuous improvement (first-article feedback, fixturing tweaks, consumables, parameter windows).
- Maintain a clean, safe cell (5S, PPE, machine care) and mentor junior welders as needed.
What You'll Bring:
- U.S. person (ITAR/EAR).
- High school diploma or equivalent; welding trade certificate or apprenticeship preferred.
- 2+ years hands-on GTAW in aerospace/defense or equivalent high-spec environment.
- Ability to qualify to AWS D17.1 (Class A/B) and pass required visual acuity tests.
- Proficiency reading prints/GD&T; using calipers, micrometers, height gauges, and weld gauges.
- Demonstrated skill with thin-wall welding and distortion management.
- Comfortable with digital travelers/MRP and disciplined documentation.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience with tank and structural welding in an aerospace or defense manufacturing environment.
- Manufacturing engineering experience in an ISO9001/AS9100 Certified facility.
- Experience with Material Resource Planning (MRP) software.
- Prior experience implementing lean manufacturing principles and safety compliance.
- Strong background in robotic welding and automated welding systems.
Physical/Work Environment:
- Stand for extended periods; lift up to 50 lbs; fine motor work under PPE.
- Occasional overtime/weekend shifts based on program need.
$80,000 - $110,000 a year
In addition to the provided base salary range, this role is overtime eligible, also offers comprehensive benefits (Medical, Dental, Vision), PTO, and Stock Options
Machina Labs is an Affirmative Action and Equal Employment Opportunity employer and considers all applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, or status as a protected veteran in accordance with state and federal law.
We endeavor to make the job application process accessible to any and all users. If you have a disability that impacts your ability to complete the job application process and would like to request assistance or a reasonable accommodation, please contact us at (888)444-9777. This contact information is for accommodation requests only, not to inquire about the status of applications.
