Prototype Build Technician

Apera; San Francisco (CA); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

An industry-leading aerospace organization in California is seeking a Prototype Build Technician to build custom machinery and assist in testing and validation for next-generation flight systems. This hands-on role includes assembling and troubleshooting automated machines and working closely with design engineers. Ideal candidates will have an Associate's Degree or relevant technical experience and strong mechanical and troubleshooting skills. You'll collaborate in a dynamic lab environment, directly contributing to significant aerospace advancements.

Qualifications

• Experience building from engineering drawings and technical documentation.
• Strong mechanical, pneumatic, hydraulic, and controls knowledge.
• Effective at troubleshooting mechanical and electro-mechanical systems.

Responsibilities

• Build custom machinery, including in-house test rigs and dynos.
• Assemble, troubleshoot, and debug automated machines and electro-mechanical systems.
• Work closely with design engineers to identify issues and recommend improvements.

Skills

Mechanical knowledge

Pneumatic knowledge

Hydraulic knowledge

Troubleshooting skills

Attention to detail

Soldering skills

Education

Associate's Degree or substantial hands-on technical experience

Tools

CAD tools (NX, CATIA, SolidWorks)

Measurement tools (calipers, micrometers, height gauges)

Job description

Industry: Advanced Aerospace / Emerging Flight Technologies

Location: Onsite

An industry‑leading aerospace organization working on next‑generation flight systems is looking for a Prototype Build Technician to join its Test Equipment Development group. This team plays a central role in building the custom machinery and tooling that enable verification, validation, and certification of new aircraft technologies.

If you enjoy hands-on work, solving build challenges with engineers, and seeing your work directly support major development milestones, this is a strong fit.

Responsibilities

• Build custom machinery, including in-house test rigs and dynos
• Assemble, troubleshoot, and debug automated machines and electro‑mechanical systems
• Work closely with design engineers to identify issues and recommend improvements
• Support prototype builds, process validation, and proof‑of‑concept work
• Fabricate wire harnesses from schematics
• Maintain lab/shop equipment and ensure a clean, safe workspace
• Procure materials, hardware, and tools as needed
• Create and update assembly documentation
• Provide support and training to technicians and engineers during build activities

Qualifications

• Associate’s Degree or substantial hands-on technical experience
• Experience building from engineering drawings and technical documentation
• Strong mechanical, pneumatic, hydraulic, and controls knowledge
• Skilled in soldering, electronics fabrication, and wire harness assembly
• Effective at troubleshooting mechanical and electro‑mechanical systems
• Strong attention to detail, safety, and workmanship
• Able to read mechanical and electrical drawings
• Experience with CAD tools (NX, CATIA, SolidWorks, etc.)
• Proficient with measurement tools (calipers, micrometers, height gauges)
• Familiar with 5S or similar methodologies

Nice to Have

• MIG/TIG welding experience
• Background in prototype, R&D, or lab environments
• Experience with custom test equipment or automation systems

About the Team

This lab is where early concepts are turned into functional hardware. The work directly supports testing and validation for next‑generation aerospace systems, with close collaboration between technicians and engineers.