Prototype Engineer

Are you interested in driving the design and launch of cutting edge, innovative devices? Do you thrive on managing complex design initiatives, solving intricate problems and defining excellence in new product development? If you answered yes, yes, yes, yes, then we’d love to discuss our Prototype Engineer role with you!

The Prototype Engineer plays a key role in the Research & Development team, supporting the rapid development and iteration of next-generation scientific instruments for surface and pore characterization. This position involves:

• Designing, fabricating, and testing prototypes, ensuring manufacturability and system integration.
• Providing technical leadership in experimental development.

The Prototype Engineer plays a pivotal role in developing and refining innovative scientific instruments. This position requires a balance of hands‑on technical expertise and strategic planning to ensure system functionality, manufacturability, and performance.

Key responsibilities include:

• Collaborate with R&D engineers, designers, and scientists to develop functional prototypes for new products and key subsystems.
• Engage in hands‑on fabrication using CNC machining, 3D printing, and other rapid prototyping techniques, ensuring precision and quality in prototype development.
• Design and test multi‑disciplinary systems, ensuring seamless integration of mechanical, electrical, and software components.
• Identify and recommend improvements to designs based on test results and manufacturability considerations.
• Maintain comprehensive documentation of design processes, experimental findings, and system components, ensuring updates reflect design changes and effectively communicate recommendations to stakeholders.
• Develop and prototype high‑level design and system specifications, ensuring system integration, feasibility, and alignment with research findings.
• Work closely with project managers, hardware, and software teams to oversee development progress, ensuring alignment with initial designs, technical improvements, and long‑term system roadmaps.
• Protect and maintain intellectual property on behalf of the organization.
• Evaluate emerging technologies and recommend hardware and software solutions for system optimization and innovation.

The Prototyping Engineer typically needs a combination of education, training, certifications, and skills. This role requires the following:

• BS in Engineering, Physical Sciences or Mathematics or equivalent years' experience in Engineering.
• Minimum of 3 years' experience in product development.
• Minimum of 3 years' experience in engineering or physics.
• Hands‑on experience with machining, 3D printing, and other fabrication techniques.
• Strong understanding and experience in mechanical and electrical systems, including CAD design and PCB prototyping.
• Ability to analyze test data and use feedback to iterate designs quickly.
• Excellent communication skills and ability to work in a diverse team.

• Experience in scientific instrumentation industry or high‑tech manufacturing for product or instrument development.
• Experience in requirements management and test plan development.
• Experience in project management.
• Proficiency in CAD software (e.g. Solid Works, Creo) and familiarity with simulation tools.
• Familiarity with programming languages for automation (e.g. Python, Lab View, MATLAB).
• Six Sigma Green Belt or higher.
• Knowledge of requirements management software tools.

• Takes responsibility for all work activities and personal actions.
• Follows through on commitments, and acknowledges and learns from mistakes.

• Acts according to the principles, vision, and values of the organization.
• Shows support and enthusiasm in their work assignments.

• Demonstrates the ability to clearly and concisely articulate thoughts, concepts and messaging.
• Shows acumen in writing, listening, and reading comprehension.

• Arrives to work on time and is fully utilized and accounted for during work hours.
• Is relied upon and available when additional time…