Prototype Designer

Front Door Defense; Houston, Northern (TX, KY); Hybrid; USD 70,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Axiom Space is seeking a bold Prototype Designer to lead the design and fabrication of space-grade prototype hardware within cross-functional teams in Houston. You will develop mockups for conceptual models, support human factors assessments, and translate ideas into production-ready tooling and crew training artifacts.

The role requires strong CAD/CAM skills (Solidworks, Rhino, Mastercam, VCarve), hands-on fabrication capabilities, and a proven ability to deliver practical solutions under tight

Qualifications

• 4+ years in fabrication, R&D, or shop environment.
• Proficient in CAD software (Solidworks or Rhino 3D).
• Proficient in CAM software (Mastercam or VCarve).
• Ability to create schematics and assembly drawings.
• Safe operation of hand and power tools.
• Knowledge of materials and manufacturing processes.
• Experience with 3D printers, laser cutters, CNC routers.
• Ability to work safely in varied environments.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with engineering and production teams to develop projects.
• Lead the design of mockup and prototype hardware.
• Create models and production files using CAD software.
• Operate digital fabrication tools like laser cutters and 3D printers.
• Fabricate components with hand and power tools.
• Maintain agile project management throughout the lifecycle.
• Communicate progress to stakeholders and leadership.
• Support development of prototyping capabilities.

Skills

Passion for space

Entrepreneurial mindset

Team collaboration

Accountability

Education

Engineering/Design degree or cert

Tools

Solidworks

Rhino 3D

Mastercam

VCarve

Job description

Prototype Designer

Lead the design and fabrication of space-grade prototype hardware in cross-functional teams

Location: Houston, Texas

About The Role

Prototype Designer

Axiom Space is a human space exploration company, building era-defining space infrastructure and delivering technology-driven solutions that will empower civilization to transcend Earth. Beginning with Axiom Station, successor to the International Space Station, the company is pioneering a next-generation orbital settlement that will foster groundbreaking innovation and research in microgravity and drive the global space economy of tomorrow. Today, guided by the vision of leading humanity's expansion off planet, Axiom Space is the principal provider of commercial human spaceflight services and developer of advanced spacesuits for the Moon and beyond.

Axiom Space fosters a work environment inclusive of all perspectives. We are the pioneers of commercial space, leading the transformation of low-Earth orbit into a global space marketplace. Our mission-driven team is seeking a bold and dynamic Prototype Designer who is fueled by high accountability, execution horsepower, and driven to understand our world, science/technology, and life itself, for the benefit of all on Earth and beyond.

Position Summary

Since Axiom Space is a very complex work environment, we are looking for a resilient, high-energy Prototype Designer, responsible for designing mockup and prototype hardware for conceptual models, human factors assessments, engineering development, production tooling, and crew training. This role requires expert knowledge of various manufacturing methods and equipment, including hand and power tools, woodworking, metalworking, mold making, composites, and vacuum forming. A successful candidate excels at working with CAD and CAM software, collaborating with design and production teams, interpreting and developing engineering drawings, operating digital fabrication tools, and utilizing various manufacturing methods to build representative hardware.

Key Duties & Responsibilities

• Collaborating with engineering and production teams to develop projects
• Leading the design of mockup and prototype hardware
• Working with CAD software, such as Solidworks or Rhino 3D, to create models and production files
• Programming and operating digital fabrication tools, such as laser cutters, 3D printers, and CNC routers
• Using hand tools, power tools, and machines to fabricate components
• Operating shop equipment, such as table saws, drill presses, press brakes, and grinders
• Manufacturing products from a variety of raw materials, including wood, metal, composites, and plastic
• Assisting in the development of prototyping capabilities
• Lifting and moving heavy objects and materials
• Communicating project progress, status, and potential issues to stakeholders and leadership
• Implementing and maintaining agile project management methodologies throughout the project lifecycle
• Perform additional job duties as assigned

Qualifications:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Education & Experience

• Technical certification and/or degree in Design or Engineering related disciplines with 4+ years of experience in fabrication, R&D, or shop environment
• Operational knowledge of CAD software, such as Solidworks or Rhino 3D
• Operational knowledge of CAM software, such as Mastercam or VCarve
• Ability to create schematics and assembly drawings
• Safe operation of hand and power tools, miter saws, drill presses, and metal forming tools
• Knowledge of materials, fasteners, and manufacturing processes
• Operational knowledge of 3D printers, laser cutters, and/or CNC routers
• Ability to work safely over uneven terrain, in confined spaces, or at height
• Track record of making things happen in ambiguous, fast-moving environments
• Uses good judgement to problem-solve proactively, positively impacting hard challenges
• Demonstrated organization skills to meet tight deadlines with high-quality results

Core Skills

• Passion for space and the mission
• Entrepreneurial, growth mindset
• High EQ and ability to collaborate within teams and cross-functionally
• Tech-solutioning in using systems and tools to move smarter and faster

Core Competencies:

• Accountability
• Technical Rigor
• Execution Discipline
• Pride of Delivery

Work Environment:

Generally, a shop environment, but can involve inside or outside work depending on the task.

Requirements

• This position may require access to export controlled technical data or technology subject to NASA regulations, International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), or Export Administration Regulations (EAR). In accordance with U.S. export control laws, final candidates may be required to undergo additional export control screening to determine eligibility for access. Meeting these requirements is a condition of employment.
• Management has the prerogative to select at any level for which the position is advertised
• Must be willing to work evenings and weekends as needed to meet critical project milestones

Physical Requirements

• Work may involve sitting or standing for extended periods (90% of the time)
• May require lifting and carrying up to 50 lbs. (5% of the time)

Equipment and Machines

• Standard office equipment (PC, phone, printer, etc.)

Axiom Space is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. Axiom Space does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics.