Autodesk · 1 month ago
CNC Senior Research & Design Engineer
San Francisco, CA, USA
Full-time
Onsite
Mid, Senior Level
$85K/yr - $147K/yr
5+ years expAutodesk is a leader in software design and manufacturing technology, and they are seeking a CNC Senior Research & Design Engineer to contribute to advanced research projects. This role involves collaborating with various teams to enhance CNC capabilities, mentor users, and manage CNC shop operations.
3D TechnologyArchitectureConstructionManufacturingSoftware Engineering
Responsibilities
Contribute as an embedded team member on internal Research projects, applying advanced CNC expertise to exploratory workflows, prototypes, and experimental manufacturing processes
Collaborate with Autodesk Research partners to design, program, and execute complex machining strategies that advance project goals and expand the capabilities of our hardware ecosystem
Help develop and refine digital-to-physical workflows, toolpaths, materials strategies, and machine behaviors that inform broader research insights
Support residents, internal teams, and visiting collaborators by guiding them through machine operation, CAM programming, job planning, and material selection
Troubleshoot user and research projects from design through machining, enabling safe, ambitious, high-quality outcomes
Contribute to evolving skill-development pathways that help users gain confidence and progress toward more complex CNC workflows
Manage clear communication and prioritization around CNC machine access and scheduling
Conceive self-directed technical explorations that demonstrate the full potential of the Technology Center’s CNC capabilities and feed into broader research understanding
Collect and interpret machine data to drive actionable insights using Digital Twin and MT Connect platforms
Oversee day-to-day operations of the CNC shop, including basic maintenance, machine operation, post-processor and software updates, and resource development for users
Support the CNC Instructor Lead by providing backup instruction on advanced CNC equipment (Haas mill/lathe, Datron, Haas router, etc.) as needed
Demonstrate best-practice machine operation, CAM strategies, and a clear pedagogical approach that promotes safe, confident learning
Mentor CNC instructors in technical skills, communication, community engagement, and professional development
Provide engineering expertise and consultation on high-complexity machining efforts
Manage advanced tooling systems: tool libraries, databases, loading, labeling, repair, setup, and accounting
Maintain supplies, tooling replacements, and ongoing machine upgrades
Refine post-processors, write and edit G-code, update tooling libraries, develop solid models, and troubleshoot CAM software
Track the maintenance calendar and schedule service visits with technicians
Coordinate with EH&S, vendors, manufacturers, and service providers to maintain machine health, upgrades, and relationships
Work with EH&S to properly handle hazardous materials such as coolant swaps and waterjet garnet removal
Perform routine shop care including mopping, rust prevention, and maintaining clear, safe workspaces
Qualification
Required
Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Robotics, Computer Science, or a related field; advanced degree preferred
Background in multi-axis machining, CAD/CAM software, and machine troubleshooting, maintenance, and repair
Expertise in operating a CNC mill and CNC Lathe
Minimum 3 years' experience in a R&D manufacturing or academic research environment
Expertise with a wide range of digital design/fabrication (CAD/CAM) tools from Autodesk and others
Experience in successfully working with new/inexperienced shop users
Experience in conducting trainings for novice to expert machine users
Working knowledge of most equipment listed, including the ability to maintain, troubleshoot and repair
At least 5 years of experience working in a professional fabrication shop, dealing with a variety of production processes and materials
Substantial expertise operating the machines you will be teaching to users
Preferred
Experience with Autodesk Fusion
Design for Manufacturing (DFM)
Inspection and Metrology
Experience with Generative Design and Machine Learning tools
Hybrid machining experience
Electronics experience
Mechatronics experience
Manual machining and metal work/fabrication experience (mill, lathe, welding, finishing, post-processing)
Benefits
Health and financial benefits
Time away
Everyday wellness
Annual cash bonuses
Commissions for sales roles
Stock grants
Comprehensive benefits package
Company
Autodesk
Autodesk develops 3D design software for use in the architecture, engineering, construction, and media industries.
10001+ employees
H1B Sponsorship
Autodesk has a track record of offering H1B sponsorships. Please note that this does not
guarantee sponsorship for this specific role. Below presents additional info for your
reference. (Data Powered by US Department of Labor)
Distribution of Different Job Fields Receiving Sponsorship
Represents job field similar to this job
Trends of Total Sponsorships
2025 (233)
2024 (243)
2023 (269)
2022 (359)
2021 (298)
2020 (260)
Funding
Current Stage
Public CompanyTotal Funding
$1.5BKey Investors
CitibankOK Blockchain Capital
2025-07-01Acquired
2025-05-08Post Ipo Debt· $1.5B
2020-08-25Seed
Leadership Team
Andrew Anagnost
President and Chief Executive Officer
Janesh Moorjani
CFO
Recent News
legacy.thefly.com
2026-01-23
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