Job Information
Aerotek Prototype Machinist in Berkeley, California
Prototype Machinist
Location: Berkeley, CA
Schedule: Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM (±1 hour flexibility)
Pay Range: $46–$52/hr (depending on experience)
About the Role
Aerotek is seeking a Prototype Machinist to support a cutting‑edge R&D team. This hands‑on role is essential to building prototype components, custom test equipment, and mechanical assemblies used in testing, validation, and rapid product iteration.
The ideal candidate is highly skilled in machining and fabrication, thrives in a fast‑paced prototype environment, and enjoys working closely with engineers to bring new designs to life.
What You’ll Do
Fabricate prototype components and custom test equipment using standard shop tools and machinery (mills, drill press, grinders, plasma cutter, welders, bandsaws, etc.)
Interpret engineering drawings, CAD models, and fabrication prints
Perform precision machining, cutting, drilling, tapping, grinding, and finishing operations
Provide design‑for‑manufacturability feedback to engineers
Modify and rework prototype parts during rapid iteration cycles
Assemble mechanical fixtures, structural frames, enclosures, and test stands
Ensure parts meet dimensional, functional, and quality specifications
Maintain clean, safe, and organized shop practices
Track materials, consumables, and communicate tooling/equipment needs
What You’ll Bring
3+ years of hands‑on machining experience in a prototype, R&D, or low‑volume manufacturing environment
Proficiency operating manual and CNC machining equipment
Welding experience (steel and aluminum preferred)
Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and GD&T
Experience working with aluminum, steel, stainless steel, and plastics
Strong mechanical aptitude and attention to detail
Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
Strong communication skills and ability to collaborate with engineering teams
Why Work Here?
Join a community committed to making the world better with equitable compensation, stock options, and a generous benefits package. We cover 100% of employee premiums and 80% of dependent premiums for medical, dental, and vision insurance for full-time employees. Enjoy a flexible Paid Time Off program and 12 weeks of paid parental bonding leave available to all employees, regardless of gender identity or expression. We are working toward a 100% renewable energy future and strive for inclusivity, reflecting the diversity of the people we serve.
Work Environment
Work in a collaborative and innovative manufacturing facility located in the heart of Berkeley. Join a diverse and intelligent team focused on providing energy storage solutions. The facility's temperature typically mirrors outdoor conditions.
Job Type & Location
This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Berkeley, CA.
Pay and Benefits
The pay range for this position is $46.00 - $52.00/hr.
Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:
• Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)
Workplace Type
This is a fully onsite position in Berkeley,CA.
Application Deadline
This position is anticipated to close on Mar 11, 2026.
About Aerotek:
We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meets their goals, skills and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry – from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role solving for companies’ construction, manufacturing and maintenance challenges. Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our people-are everything spirit to the test as your career continues to grow.
Aerotek offers weekly pay, employee benefits including medical, dental & vision, life insurance, health advocacy and employee assistance programs, a 401(k) plan, and employee discounts.
The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.