NPI Machinist

Rocket Lab; Austin (TX); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in defense autonomy is seeking a skilled NPI Fabrication Technician to bridge the gap between prototype and production. The role involves fabricating early-stage vessel components and refining production processes, requiring expertise in welding and CAD interpretation. Ideal candidates will have significant hands-on experience and a collaborative mindset in fast-paced environments, with competitive benefits including health insurance, retirement plans, and stock options.

Benefits

Comprehensive Medical Insurance

Dental and Vision Insurance

Generous PTO and Holidays

Paid Parental Leave

401(k) Retirement Plan

Stock Options

Life and Disability Insurance

Free lunch and unlimited drinks

Qualifications

• 5+ years of hands-on fabrication experience in R&D or prototyping.
• Proficient in advanced welding and shop equipment.
• Understanding of mechanical systems and material behavior.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with engineers for rapid prototyping.
• Fabricate prototype parts under tight deadlines.
• Read and interpret complex blueprints and CAD models.

Skills

Welding techniques

CAD interpretation

Collaboration

Attention to detail

Problem-solving

Education

High school diploma or GED

Technical certification or associate degree in fabrication

Job description

Saronic Technologies is a leader in revolutionizing defense autonomy at sea, dedicated to developing state-of-the-art solutions that enhance maritime operations for the Department of Defense (DoD) through autonomous and intelligent platforms.

We’re seeking an NPI Fabrication Technician to join our team and help bridge the gap between prototype and production. You’ll be directly involved in building early-stage vessel components, refining fabrication processes, and supporting the rollout of new designs to manufacturing.

Key Responsibilities:

• Collaborate closely with engineers and designers to bring concepts to life through rapid prototyping and iterative development.
• Fabricate one-off or low-volume prototype parts using a range of materials and techniques, often with tight deadlines and evolving specifications.
• Read and interpret complex blueprints, CAD models, and technical documentation to fabricate precision components.
• Operate a wide variety of shop equipment including CNC mills/lathes, laser cutters, waterjets, press brakes, welders, and 3D printers.
• Perform high-level welding (TIG, MIG, Stick) on diverse metals including aluminum, stainless steel, and exotic alloys.
• Modify and optimize parts during prototyping phases based on performance testing and engineering feedback.
• Provide hands-on support during product development cycles, including design validation, testing setups, and mechanical integration.
• Assist in the development and refinement of manufacturing processes for new products.
• Ensure work complies with engineering standards, safety protocols, and quality assurance processes.
• Keep detailed records of prototyping and fabrication iterations for documentation and R&D traceability.
• Provide insight and feedback to engineering teams regarding manufacturability, material selection, and design for fabrication.

Qualifications:

• High school diploma or GED required; technical certification or associate degree in fabrication, machining, or related field strongly preferred.
• 5+ years of hands-on fabrication experience, with significant exposure to R&D or prototyping environments.
• Proficient in advanced welding techniques and a wide range of shop equipment.
• Strong ability to interpret CAD drawings and 3D models (experience with SolidWorks, Fusion 360, or similar is a plus).
• Experience working in an agile development environment with changing requirements and tight timelines.
• Understanding of mechanical systems, tolerances, and material behavior under load and stress.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills to work effectively with multidisciplinary teams.
• Strong attention to detail, initiative, and a solution-oriented mindset.

Benefits:

• Medical Insurance: Comprehensive health insurance plans covering a range of services
• Saronic pays 100% of the premium for employees and 80% for dependents
• Dental and Vision Insurance: Coverage for routine dental check-ups, orthodontics, and vision care
• Saronic pays 99% of the premium for employees and 80% for dependents
• Time Off: Generous PTO and Holidays
• Parental Leave: Paid maternity and paternity leave to support new parents
• Competitive Salary: Industry-standard salaries with opportunities for performance-based bonuses
• Retirement Plan: 401(k) plan
• Stock Options: Equity options to give employees a stake in the company’s success
• Life and Disability Insurance: Basic life insurance and short- and long-term disability coverage
• Additional Perks: Free lunch benefit and unlimited free drinks and snacks in the office

Saronic does not discriminate on the basis of race, sex, color, religion, age, national origin, marital status, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity or any other reason prohibited by law in provision of employment opportunities and benefits.