Hypersonics Prototype Technician: Precision Machining & Welding

Castelion; Torrance (CA); On-site; USD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Stock incentives

Medical insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

Paid time off

Job summary

Castelion is seeking a hands-on R&D Technician to support prototype fabrication, assembly, and test of hypersonic systems in a fast-paced environment. You will work with engineers translating designs into parts, performing precision manual machining, TIG/MIG welding, and composite layup and repair, and ensuring quality through measurements and documentation.

Qualifications include 3+ years in a machine shop or aerospace manufacturing, experience with TIG/MIG welding, manual milling/turning, and

Qualifications

• 3+ years hands-on experience in a machine shop, fabrication shop, or aerospace manufacturing environment.
• Proficient in TIG and MIG welding on aerospace-grade metals (aluminum, stainless, common alloys).
• Manual machining experience with lathes, mills, and tooling.
• Experience with composite layup, trimming, sanding, and repairs.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and follow detailed instructions.
• Strong attention to detail, manual dexterity, and mechanical troubleshooting.
• Comfortable working in a team environment and communicating with engineers.
• Willingness to work in a safety-conscious, controlled environment (PPE, cleanroom practices).

Responsibilities

• Fabricate, fit, and assemble prototype components to engineering drawings and verbal instructions.
• Perform manual machining operations (lathe, mill) for low-volume prototype parts and fixtures.
• Execute TIG and MIG welding on metallic components; perform tack, finish, and cleanup to assembly standards.
• Prepare, lay up, and cure composite parts; perform repairs and trimming as directed.
• Read and interpret engineering drawings, CAD prints, and inspection criteria.
• Support first-article builds, bench and lab tests, and iterative design changes.
• Perform basic inspection and dimensional checks; document work and non-conformances.
• Maintain clean, organized work area and follow shop safety and quality procedures.
• Collaborate with engineers to suggest manufacturability or assembly improvements.
• Assist in tooling fabrication, jigs, and fixtures as required.

Skills

Machining experience

TIG welding

MIG welding

Composite layup

Drawings interpretation

Attention to detail

Team collaboration

PPE compliance

Tools

Calipers

Micrometers

Height gauges

Job description

Castelion is seeking a hands-on R&D Technician to support prototype fabrication, assembly, and test of hypersonic systems in a fast-paced environment. You will work with engineers translating designs into parts, performing precision manual machining, TIG/MIG welding, and composite layup and repair, and ensuring quality through measurements and documentation.

Qualifications include 3+ years in a machine shop or aerospace manufacturing, experience with TIG/MIG welding, manual milling/turning, and