Senior Lead Model Maker

What will you work on? 

Reporting to the Manager of Prototype Engineering and Model Shop, this person will primarily be responsible for translating designs into functional works-like and looks-like models and prototypes.  The candidate will work closely with Industrial Designers, Mechanical and Prototype Engineers, Product Development Engineers, and fellow Model Shop team members to help transform exciting conceptual ideation and requirements of play pattern into functional, manufacturable assemblies and components, adhering to DFMA principles when needed, and while collaborating with integrated product teams to ensure all product, cost, quality, and safety requirements are met.   

 How will you create impact?

• Develop compelling consumer products working effectively within a small team of Mechanical, Electrical and Prototype Engineers and Model Makers, and in collaboration with a larger global team of highly creative designers and product development engineers, as well as other cross-functional teams.
• Participate in product brainstorming to help ideate and define opportunities to explore, providing expertise on fabrication methods for new med-high complexity developments. 
• Make new parts for existing models using sketches, blueprints and CAD models and perform model repair and maintenance for models.
• Independently build and fine tune medium to high complexity works-like or looks-like models or proof-of-concept models.
• Ensure a balance of cost, performance, and schedule – managing to deliver all 3 priorities and proactively identify predictable risks across all performance measurements.
• Lead micro and macro strategic initiatives to continuously improve model shop performance and value to the company.
• Innovate new model building technology, tools, material types for quality/ schedule/ cost and process improvements
• Provide mechanism and component CAD designs that are ready for prototype building and iteration testing.
• Maintain a thorough understanding of all the machines in the model shop and ensure maintenance schedules are kept up to date.
• Manage model shop inventory and material to ensure smooth operation and monitor shop equipment lifespan and advises when updates are required with adequate notice.
• Continuous improvement mindset enabling steady improvements to model shop processes.
• Clearly communicate timelines and expected deliverables and set boundaries around scope and capabilities. Provide prompt communication to manage expectations upon shifts.
• Leverage rapid prototyping skillset to quickly convert ideas/sketches into proof-of-concept models; working closely with both in-house and external model shops to develop prototypes. 
• Working with the Electrical Engineering team, utilize mechatronics skillset to add simple electronics to builds as needed to help “bring to life” the design (power, motor, switches, LEDs, etc).
• Drive productivity and schedule gains by implementing early design successes for less revisions. 
• Foster teams that are collaborative, inclusive, and respectful of each other, leading by example. 
• Driving open communications and continuous alignment within team and between cross-functional partners. 

What are your skills and experience?

• Model making experience.
• Ability to start from design illustrations, specifications, briefs and 2D isometric views to create physical 3D proof-of-concept assemblies and final models.
• Ability to execute a wide range of projects, from precise, specification-driven models requiring exact replication to open-ended, exploratory BlueSky concepts, adapting techniques and approaches as needed.
• Solid understanding of manufacturing methods and techniques, such as CNC machining, fastening methods, bonding, assembly, foam, deco operations, etc.
• Comfortable operating standard workshop equipment, including CNC machines, table saws, vacuum formers, and other fabrication tools, while adhering to safety protocols and best practices.
• Ability to use CAD software to create low to mid complexity parts and mechanisms (SolidWorks, Onshape, Inventor, Fusion 360 or equivalent)
• Solid understanding of rapid prototyping methods and 3D printing
• Highly organized and able to manage multiple projects in different phases of their respective development cycle. 
• Ability working with small intricate plastic components and linkages.
• Ability to work with creative professionals (industrial designers and artists) both within and outside the company.
• Ability to ideate, create, design and test mechanical assemblies, apparatus and mechanisms used to optimize performance across a wide range of categories (Robotics, Interactive Activity Toys, Remote Control, etc.) all whilst having fun and playing at the same time.
• Good understanding of mechatronics and electronics, ability to create basic circuits (including power, motors, etc.) used for developing proof-of-concept prototypes

The anticipated pay range for candidates who will work in California is $35 to $40 Per Hour. The offered pay to a successful candidate will be dependent on several factors that may include but are not limited to years of experience within the job, years of experience within the required industry, education, etc. Spin Master Inc. is a multi-state employer, and this salary range may not reflect positions that work only in other states.
 

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