Applied AI Prototyping Engineer (Entry-Level)

Job Summary

The Applied AI Prototyping Engineer is a high-impact, entry-level role focused on advancing SolidCAM’s innovation in AI-driven manufacturing solutions. This position works directly under the SVP of Applied AI for Manufacturing, contributing to cutting-edge research and development initiatives that rapidly transition from concept to production.

This role is responsible for leading rapid prototyping efforts, developing AI/ML-driven tools, and building integrations between experimental systems and SolidCAM’s core software platform. The ideal candidate is a highly motivated self-starter with strong technical skills and a passion for building end-to-end solutions that deliver real-world impact across the manufacturing industry.

Key Responsibilities

AI Research & Prototyping

• Lead fast-paced R&D initiatives and rapid prototyping in Python, including AI/ML pipelines and experimentation tools.
• Develop agentic AI programming tools tailored for manufacturing environments, with a focus on on-premises deployments.

Software Development & Integration

• Build integrations connecting Python-based prototypes to SolidCAM’s core MFC C++ application using interprocess communication.
• Contribute to enhancements across the software stack, including web interfaces, APIs, databases, and cloud components as needed.

Innovation & Product Development

• Collaborate directly with the SVP of Applied AI to design and develop data-driven tools such as rating systems, workflow optimization solutions, and scheduling platforms.
• Rapidly iterate on prototypes, transforming ideas into functional demos ready for handoff to core development teams.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Work closely with engineering, product, and leadership teams to align R&D initiatives with business objectives.
• Support the transition of prototypes into scalable, production-ready solutions.

Continuous Learning & Technical Growth

• Stay current with emerging trends in AI, machine learning, and manufacturing technologies.
• Contribute ideas and insights to drive ongoing innovation within SolidCAM’s AI initiatives.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or a related field (Class of 2024–2026 strongly preferred).
• Strong proficiency in Python with hands-on experience building real-world applications (AI/ML, NLP, data pipelines, or full-stack projects).
• Solid foundation in C++ programming.
• Experience with software development across multiple layers (backend, frontend, or systems integration).
• Familiarity with interprocess communication and system integration concepts (preferred).
• Experience with full-stack technologies (React, Node.js, PostgreSQL or MongoDB, Docker, GCP) is a plus.
• Exposure to AI frameworks, large language models (LLMs), or agent-based systems is a plus.
• Interest or experience in manufacturing, CNC machining, robotics, or 3D printing is a plus.
• Strong analytical and critical thinking skills with the ability to build and iterate quickly.
• Self-starter with a prominent level of ownership, accountability, and initiative.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, R&D-driven environment with evolving priorities.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills, especially in working with senior leadership.

Why This Role is Unique

• Direct daily collaboration and mentorship from the SVP of Applied AI for Manufacturing.
• Opportunity to work on AI solutions that power real CNC machines and manufacturing environments worldwide.
• Ownership of end-to-end prototypes that directly influence product direction and innovation.
• Fast-track career growth with increasing responsibility and impact.
• Direct access to cutting-edge technology and CNC machinery at SolidCAM’s Newtown, PA Technology Center.
• Competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits package.