City of Shakopee

About our group:

The Rapid Prototyping Group within Seagate Research is involved with creating prototypes, replacement parts, and designs for a wide variety of applications across Seagate. There are multiple facets to the group including the 3D Prototyping Lab (Shakopee), Machine Shop (Shakopee and Longmont).

This role is specifically for the 3D Prototyping Lab where you will operate 3D printers, 3D scanners, lasers, and work with engineers to understand material requirements and specific applications.

About the role - you will:

• Support rapid prototyping and product development activities by operating, maintaining, and optimizing a variety of additive manufacturing and digital fabrication systems.
• Processing customer requests, preparing build files, producing high-quality prototype parts, and ensuring projects are completed on schedule.
• Work closely with engineers, researchers, and project stakeholders to transform concepts into physical prototypes using multiple additive manufacturing processes, laser systems, and post-processing equipment.
• Receive, review, and manage prototyping requests from internal customers.
• Evaluate CAD models and determine the most appropriate manufacturing process based on project requirements.
• Set up, operate, and monitor additive manufacturing equipment, including:
  • FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling)
  • SLS (Selective Laser Sintering)
  • MSLA (Masked Stereolithography)
  • DLP (Digital Light Processing)
  • PolyJet
  • Operate laser cutting, laser engraving, and related digital fabrication equipment.
• Perform routine machine maintenance, calibration, cleaning, and troubleshooting.
• Conduct post-processing activities such as support removal, curing, sanding, finishing, and part inspection.
• Ensure printed parts meet quality, dimensional, and customer requirements.
• Maintain material inventories and coordinate ordering of consumables as needed.
• Track projects, machine utilization, and production metrics.
• Document manufacturing procedures, machine settings, and process improvements.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe laboratory environment.
• Support continuous improvement efforts to improve print quality, throughput, and operational efficiency.
• Assist engineering teams with prototype development, design reviews, and manufacturability recommendations.

About you:

• Hands-on, detail-oriented, and possess a strong interest in 3D printing and emerging manufacturing technologies.

• Passion for 3D printing and emerging manufacturing technologies.
• Strong customer-service mindset and willingness to support a diverse engineering community.
• Self-motivated with the ability to work independently.
• Continuous learner who enjoys experimenting with new materials, equipment, and processes.
• Hands-on problem solver who thrives in a fast-paced prototyping environment
• Ability to lift and move materials and equipment up to 40 pounds.
• Ability to stand, walk, and work around manufacturing equipment for extended periods.
• Ability to safely work with chemicals, powders, resins, and other additive manufacturing materials while following appropriate safety procedure

Your experience includes:

• Demonstrated interest in additive manufacturing, 3D printing, or digital fabrication technologies.
• Experience operating technical equipment and following detailed procedures.
• Basic mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills.
• Ability to interpret CAD models, engineering drawings, and technical instructions.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency with MS suite.

You might also have:

• Associate degree in Engineering Technology, Manufacturing Technology, Mechanical Design, Industrial Technology, or another STEM-related field; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Two-year STEM degree in Mechanical Engineering Technology, Manufacturing Technology, Mechatronics, or a related field.
• Hands-on experience with one or more additive manufacturing technologies.
• Familiarity with CAD software such as SolidWorks, Fusion 360, Creo, or similar.
• Experience with laser cutting or laser engraving systems.
• Knowledge of common additive manufacturing materials and post-processing methods.
• Experience working in a prototype lab, machine shop, makerspace, or manufacturing environment.
• Understanding of quality inspection methods and metrology tools.

Location:

Our Shakopee campus is located 25 minutes southwest of Minneapolis in a setting with a rural vibe – it overlooks a horse racing track and stables, yet it has great entertainment venues close by as well. With wide-open spaces, the campus has plenty of space for running, biking, shooting some hoops or playing volleyball over lunch. If working out is your thing, the on-site fully equipped fitness center hosts wellness programs, tournaments and group workouts. Hungry? Seagate offers an on-site café with freshly sourced foods and specialty coffees, or if you prefer, drive to one of many restaurants just minutes away.

The estimated base wage range for this position is $34.01 - $49.56/hr. The individual base wage is based on work location and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training.

Seagate offers comprehensive benefits to its eligible employees, including, but not limited to, medical, dental, vision, and life insurance, short- and long-term disability, eligibility to participate in discretionary bonus program, 401(k), employee stock purchase plan, flexible and dependent care spending accounts, and health care spending accounts. Seagate also offers paid time off, including 12 holidays, 120 hours of vacation, a minimum of 48 hours of paid sick leave, and 16 weeks of paid parental leave. The benefits for this position are based on a full-time schedule for a full calendar year and may differ depending on work location and tenure with the Company.

Location: Shakopee, United States
Travel: None