A "Prototype Tech" or "Prototype Technician" is responsible for building physical prototypes of products based on design specifications, utilizing various manufacturing techniques like 3D printing, CNC machining, and hand fabrication, to test and validate product concepts before full-scale production, collaborating closely with engineers and designers to identify potential design flaws and refine the product through iterative prototyping cycles.
Key responsibilities of Prototype Tech:
Prototype fabrication:
Constructing prototypes using 3D printing, CNC machining, laser cutting, hand tooling, and other relevant fabrication methods.
Following detailed design drawings and specifications to accurately build prototypes.
Assembling prototype components and ensuring proper fit and function.
Testing and evaluation:
Conducting functional testing on prototypes to identify design flaws and potential issues.
Documenting test results and providing feedback to engineering teams for design improvements.
Performing quality control checks on prototypes to meet established standards.
Collaboration:
Working closely with engineers, designers, and project managers to understand product requirements and translate them into functional prototypes.
Communicating design changes and potential issues to relevant stakeholders.
Equipment operation and maintenance:
Operating and maintaining 3D printers, CNC machines, and other prototyping equipment.
Performing routine maintenance and troubleshooting equipment malfunctions.
Staying updated on new prototyping technologies and techniques.
Material selection:
Selecting appropriate materials for prototype construction based on product requirements and desired functionalities.
Managing inventory of prototyping materials and supplies.
Required skills and qualifications:
Technical skills:
Proficiency in CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD) for design interpretation
Experience with 3D printing, CNC machining, and other rapid prototyping techniques
Knowledge of materials and their properties
Basic mechanical assembly skills
Problem-solving skills:
Ability to identify and troubleshoot design issues during prototype construction
Creative thinking to find solutions to technical challenges
Communication skills:
Clear and concise communication with engineers, designers, and other team members
Ability to document test results and provide detailed reports.
QUALIFICATIONS:
3 - 5 years of experience in manufacturing
High school diploma with significant experience and relevant technical skills, particularly if the role focuses on hands-on fabrication and assembly using prototyping tools like 3D printers and CNC machines.
Associate's degree in a relevant field like mechanical engineering, industrial design, manufacturing technology, or a related technical field
Strong analytical, prioritizing, interpersonal, problem-solving, presentation, budgeting, project management (from conception to completion), & planning skills. Strong verbal and written communication skills (including analysis, interpretation, & reasoning.
EDUCATION
HS Diploma or GED required.
BENEFITS PROGRAM:
Insurance and 401K benefits are available the 1st of the month after ONLY 30 days of service and include:
Three options for Health Insurance, including an option with an H.S.A. that comes with an employer contribution.
Medical Insurance
Vision Insurance
Dental Insurance
Paid Vacation, Paid Time OFF (PTO), and 10 paid holidays.
Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
Long- and Short-Term Disability at no cost to the employee
Voluntary Supplemental Life and AD&D options
Life Insurance
Tuition Reimbursement
Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
401K Plan with an employer match
Safety Work Shoe Allowance
Masterack's is a business unit of the J.B. Poindexter & Co., Inc. family and provides equal employment opportunities to all team members and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.
This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.
Whether you are just beginning your career or taking the "next step," please visit our careers page - https://www.masterack.com/careers