Senior Prototype & Test Engineer

Float is an early-stage aerospace company developing advanced airship systems for large-scale cargo applications. We are focused on solving hard aerospace problems and translating ambitious concepts into real, tested hardware. Our team is small, execution-driven, and building a new airship platform from first principles.

As Senior Prototype & Test Engineer
, you will be responsible for building, testing, and iterating on early hardware for Float’s airship platform. This is a deeply hands‑on role for an engineer who enjoys turning designs into physical reality, pushing hardware to its limits, and feeding real‑world data back into design decisions.

You will work closely with mechanical, structures, propulsion, and avionics engineers to ensure prototypes are built correctly, tested rigorously, and improved quickly.

• Build and assemble prototypes and proof‑of‑concept hardware
  , including scale models and early flight‑relevant components
• Design and fabricate test fixtures, rigs, and instrumentation to support subsystem and system‑level testing
• Execute hands‑on testing to validate structural, mechanical, and system performance
• Collect, analyze, and document test data to inform design iteration
• Identify failure modes and work with design engineers to implement improvements
• Support integration, assembly, and troubleshooting during prototype build phases
• Assist in developing test plans, validation procedures, and safety protocols
• Maintain an organized, safe, and efficient prototype and test environment

• Degree in Mechanical, Aerospace, or related engineering field, or equivalent hands‑on experience
• Strong background in prototyping, fabrication, and experimental testing
• Proven experience building and testing complex physical systems
• Comfortable working with tools, fixtures, and instrumentation in a shop or lab environment
• Ability to interpret engineering drawings and translate them into physical hardware
• Strong problem‑solving skills and attention to detail
• Comfortable working in fast‑moving, early‑stage environments

• Experience with aerospace, UAVs, robotics, or experimental hardware programs
• Familiarity with structural testing, instrumentation, and data acquisition
• Experience building scale models or test articles
• Prior experience at a startup or skunk works‑style engineering team

This is a rare opportunity to shape the core engineering DNA of a company redefining how cargo moves across the planet. You’ll take on meaningful responsibility early, build groundbreaking vehicles, and grow alongside a world‑class team pioneering the future of sustainable air mobility.

Mid‑Senior level

Full‑time

Engineering and Information Technology

Airlines and Aviation