Build Engineer (New Grad Summer 2026)

Freeform is deploying software-defined, autonomous metal 3D printing factories around the world, bringing the scalability of software to physical production. Our proprietary technology stack leverages advanced sensing, real-time controls, and data-driven learning to produce digitally verified, flawless parts at unprecedented speed and cost. Our mission is to make the transformative power of 3D printing available to all industries at scale and unlock the future of innovation.  

As a Build Engineer at Freeform, you will take ownership of building, assembling, and integrating complex, custom mechanical systems from scratch. You’ll work hands-on to bring high-performance hardware to life, supporting the transition from prototype to production. This role sits at the intersection of design, manufacturing, and system integration where you’ll work with a talented engineering team from some of the world’s most innovative companies across a range of projects to develop and refine new technologies. The ideal candidate thrives in ambiguity, can drive technically challenging projects with minimal oversight, and collaborates effectively across disciplines to deliver novel hardware solutions at scale. 

3D printing experience is not required to be successful here - we look for smart, motivated engineers who love solving hard problems, working hands-on, and creating incredible technology!  

Responsibilities: 

• Own the assembly, integration, and bring-up of complex mechanical and electromechanical systems 
• Develop and document scalable manufacturing and assembly procedures 
• Collaborate with design and manufacturing engineers to optimize builds for performance, precision, and repeatability 
• Provide real-world feedback to improve designs and make CAD modifications as needed 
• Create and iterate on mechanical designs, including custom tooling, test fixtures, and build jigs 
• Lead alignment, calibration, and precision tuning of mechanical systems 
• Troubleshoot issues in mechanical and electromechanical subsystems with cross-functional teams 
• Support the transition of systems from R&D to high-reliability production 
• Conduct hands-on testing and validation of mechanical performance

Basic Qualifications: 

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical, aerospace, or manufacturing engineering from an ABET-accredited university or college
• Hands on mechanical or build experience from internships or engineering clubs such as FSAE, Baja SAE, solar car, rocket club, robotics club, or similar 
• Experience working with manual mills, lathes, and other machine shop tools 
• Strong mechanical fundamentals and a problem-solving mindset 
• Passion for building and debugging complex mechanical systems 

Nice to Have: 

• Advanced degree (Master's, PhD) in mechanical, aerospace, or manufacturing engineering 
• Experience building engines, rockets, drones, robots, cars, or other mechanical systems from scratch 
• Familiarity with CNC machining, welding, bonding, and fastening techniques 
• Experience with tooling design, fixture development, or custom fabrication 
• Understanding of DFM/DFA principles 
• Experience with metal 3D printing 
• Comfortable working in fast-paced, ambiguous environments and iterating quickly (comfortable building the plane as we fly it) 
• Strong communicator who collaborates across disciplines and proactively seeks support when needed 
• Willing to take ownership of tasks big and small, with a hands-on, problem-solving mindset 
• Strong work ethic with a refuse-to-fail mindset 
• Demonstrated indicators of excellence and/or achieving success against adversity (i.e. top academic performance, leadership in engineering clubs, first-generation college student, or other examples of resilience and achievement) 

Location: 

• We are located in Hawthorne, CA in a 35,000 square foot, state-of-the-art facility featuring large open spaces for team collaboration, R&D, and production, as well as easy access to the 405, 105, and 110 freeways. Our facility is in the heart of Los Angeles' vibrant emerging tech ecosystem alongside many other high growth startups and enterprises. 

What We Offer: 

• We have an inclusive and diverse culture that values collaboration, learning, and making deliberate data-driven decisions. 
• We offer a unique opportunity to be an early and integral member of a rapidly growing company that is scaling a world-changing technology. 
• Benefits  
  • Significant stock option packages 
  • 100% employer-paid Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance (premium PPO and HMO options) 
  • Life insurance 
  • Traditional and Roth 401(k) 
  • Relocation assistance provided 
  • Paid vacation, sick leave, and company holidays 
  • Generous Paid Parental Leave and extended transition back to work for the birthing parent 
  • Free daily catered lunch and dinner, and fully stocked kitchenette 
  • Casual dress, flexible work hours, and regular catered team building events 
• Compensation    
  • Our intent is to offer a salary that is commensurate for the company’s current stage of development and allows the employee to grow and develop within a role. 
  • In addition to the significant stock option package, the estimated salary range for this role is $90,000-$95,000, dependent on the candidate’s education and experience. 
• Freeform is an Equal Opportunity Employer that values diversity; employment with Freeform is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status. 

What To Expect: 

• Thank you for your interest in our new graduate opportunity! We truly appreciate your application and enthusiasm to join our team. Please note that our interview process will begin after we attend university career fairs in early fall. The process will include 2-3 rounds of interviews. We anticipate wrapping up the interview process by late October/early November.