Prototype Technician

Job Title:

Prototype Technician

Job Description

This contract role supports increased production of additively manufactured aerospace engine components by performing high-precision, hands-on post-processing, inspection, sub-assembly, and testing. You will work in a fast-paced aerospace production environment focused on improving throughput against aggressive engine build targets while maintaining strict quality, cleanliness, and safety standards. Multiple openings are available across blasting and ultrasonic cleaning, FOD and wax removal, ultrasonic cleaning, quality control, sub-assembly, and pressure testing.

Responsibilities

* Perform hand finishing, deburring, and support removal on additively manufactured aerospace components to achieve precise dimensional and surface requirements.

* Execute wet and dry blasting and media finishing processes to prepare and refine component surfaces for subsequent operations.

* Conduct precision cleaning activities, including foreign object debris (FOD) removal and wax or support removal, to meet stringent cleanliness specifications.

* Operate ultrasonic cleaning equipment and related tools to ensure components meet high-spec cleanliness and post-processing requirements.

* Support inspection activities by using appropriate tools and methods to verify dimensional accuracy, surface condition, and overall component quality.

* Assist with prototype and sub-assembly work, including mechanical assembly, torque application, and fitting installation on engine and precision components.

* Support pressure and leak testing of components and systems, following defined procedures to validate performance and integrity.

* Follow detailed work instructions, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and travelers precisely, ensuring consistent and compliant execution of all tasks.

* Ensure strict adherence to cleanliness, quality, and safety standards throughout all stages of post-processing, inspection, assembly, and testing.

* Accurately complete documentation and electronic data entry to maintain traceability, support quality records, and comply with regulated environment requirements.

* Move materials manually or with appropriate tools and equipment as needed to support production flow and maintain throughput targets.

* Work collaboratively within a team environment, communicating clearly about status, issues, and process improvements.

* Maintain high-quality output with minimal rework or defects while sustaining the throughput pace required to meet aggressive engine build targets.

* Demonstrate strong process discipline, including consistent adherence to cleanliness and regulated-environment expectations such as ITAR and traceability.

* Exhibit reliable attendance and engagement throughout the full contract duration, especially during high-intensity build and test periods.

Essential Skills

* At least 2+ years of manufacturing or assembly experience, preferably in prototype assembly, aerospace, or other high-spec production environments.

* Experience working in a production or high-spec manufacturing environment where quality, traceability, and cleanliness are critical.

* Ability to follow detailed written work instructions, SOPs, and travelers precisely, rather than relying on general guidance.

* Strong attention to detail and a quality-focused mindset, with the ability to produce high-quality work with minimal rework or defects.

* Effective communication skills to collaborate within a team and coordinate tasks in a fast-paced production setting.

* Demonstrated commitment to safety and clean work practices in a regulated manufacturing environment.

* Physical ability to stand or sit for extended periods (approximately 5-6 hours per day) and perform repetitive tasks.

* Capability to lift and carry up to 45 lbs occasionally and up to 10 lbs frequently, as well as to bend, stoop, kneel, and reach as needed.

* Frequent and comfortable use of hands, hand tools, and computer systems to perform manufacturing, inspection, and documentation tasks.

* Experience with aircraft manufacturing and/or production, particularly aerospace post-processing or finishing, or equivalent precision manufacturing experience.

* Comfort working in regulated environments that emphasize ITAR compliance, cleanliness, and traceability.

Additional

Skills & Qualifications

* Experience in blasting and surface preparation, including abrasive blasting and media finishing, ideally in additive, coatings, or medical device environments.

* Background in cleaning and post-processing operations such as FOD control, wax removal, and ultrasonic cleaning, especially in cleanliness-focused industries.

* Quality control experience using inspection tools, blueprint reading, and familiarity with GD&T (geometric dimensioning and tolerancing) is preferred.

* Mechanical sub-assembly experience, including torque application and use of fittings, particularly in engine, automotive, or heavy mechanical environments.

* Experience with pressure or leak testing of components or…