Prototype Assistant

VIRA Insight; Lewisville (TX); On-site; USD 51,577,344 - 63,038,976; Full time

Job summary

VIRA Insight in Lewisville, TX seeks a Prototype Assistant to support the Prototype Supervisor in creating metal prototypes and related fabrication tasks. You will work closely with the Prototype Lead and Engineering Manager, ensuring quality and timely delivery while applying metal, painting, wood, and plastic fabrication as needed.

The role requires reading assembly prints and drawings, operating metal equipment, and performing MIG/TIG welding.

Qualifications

• Read assembly prints and engineering drawings to follow specs.
• Operate a forklift and manage time to meet deadlines.
• Communicate effectively in verbal and written form.
• Work well within a team and maintain attention to detail.

Responsibilities

• Split time 50% metal manufacturing and 50% other fabrication areas.
• Operate laser, brake press, and welder.
• Perform MIG/TIG welding on stainless and cold-rolled steel.
• Read BOMs to determine materials.
• Read drawings to execute fabrication techniques.
• Support the sample SOP and back up supervisor.
• Collaborate with sample QC on edits.
• Maintain a safe, clean sample area.
• Remain self-sufficient when following supervisor guidance.
• Perform additional related duties as assigned.

Skills

Read engineering drawings

Time management

Teamwork

Attention to detail

Quality focus

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Forklift operation

Job description

POSITION SUMMARY

The Prototype Assistant supports the Prototype Supervisor in creating prototypes with an emphasis on metal fabrication. The role ensures all prototypes meet quality requirements and are completed on time, working closely with the Prototype Lead and Prototype Engineering Manager to lead metal fabrication of samples and all department jobs. The assistant also utilizes techniques outside of metal, including painting, wood, and plastic fabrication.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Spend 50% of time in metal manufacturing and 50% in other areas such as general assembly, painting, wood, and plastic fabrication.
• Operate metal equipment, including a laser, brake press, and welder.
• Perform MIG and TIG welding on stainless and cold‑rolled steel.
• Read job bills of material to determine required wood, plastic, metal, hardware, and miscellaneous materials.
• Read technical drawings to execute fabrication techniques.
• Understand and support the sample SOP.
• Continuously develop necessary skills to back up the Prototype Supervisor when not available.
• Collaborate with sample QC to implement edits upon review.
• Remain self‑sufficient when following guidance from the Prototype Supervisor.
• Maintain a safe and clean sample area.
• Perform additional related duties as assigned.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY

No direct reports.

POSITION REQUIREMENTS

• Read assembly prints and engineering drawings to carry out instructions per specifications.
• Operate a forklift.
• Manage time effectively to meet very time‑sensitive deadlines.
• Communicate proficiently in verbal and written form.
• Work well within a team environment.
• Maintain excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Exhibit a keen eye for quality.

REQUIRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
• 6+ months of hands‑on experience in a metal manufacturing environment plus formal training from technical or trade school, or equivalent educational background.

OTHER JOB REQUIREMENTS

• Work in a non‑climate‑controlled facility with both hot and cold climates.
• Adapt to varying work schedules based on business needs.
• Frequently sit, stand, walk, talk, and hear during work.
• Read drawings and blueprints.
• Sit and stand for extended periods.
• Carry and lift materials up to 100 lbs.
• Bilingual in Spanish is a plus.