Prototype Engineering Technician IV

axiomspace; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Axiom Space is seeking a bold and dynamic Prototype Engineering Technician to build mockups and prototypes for concept models, human factors, and training. You will collaborate with design and production teams, interpret drawings, and maintain tooling and equipment to support rapid iteration.

The role requires expertise in various fabrication methods, a strong safety mindset, and the ability to work across wood, metal, composites, and plastics.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• 8–15 years fabrication/R&D/shop experience.
• Safe operation of hand and power tools, miter saws, drill presses, and metal forming tools.
• Ability to interpret schematics and assembly drawings.
• Operational knowledge of 3D printers, laser cutters, and/or CNC routers.
• Knowledge of CAD/CAM software (such as Solidworks, Rhino 3D, Mastercam, or VCarve) is a plus.
• Ability to work safely over uneven terrain, in confined spaces, or at height.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with design and engineering teams to develop projects.
• Lead the fabrication of mockups and prototypes.
• Use hand and power tools, and machines to fabricate components.
• Manufacture products from wood, metal, composites, and plastic.
• Operate shop equipment (table saws, drill presses, laser cutters, CNC routers).
• Set up and maintain equipment.
• Assist in developing prototyping capabilities.
• Lift and move heavy objects and materials.
• Communicate progress and issues to stakeholders and leadership.
• Apply agile project management practices across projects.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

Skills

Fabrication

R&D experience

Schematic interpretation

CAD/CAM knowledge

Problem-solving

Team collaboration

Education

High school Diploma or GED

8–15 years fabrication/R&D/shop experience

Tools

SolidWorks

Rhino 3D

Mastercam

VCarve

3D Printers

Laser Cutters

CNC Routers

Job description

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. For more information about Axiom Space, visit www.axiomspace.com .

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 Engineering Technician 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 Engineering Technician , responsible for building 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 collaborating with design and production teams, interpreting engineering drawings, maintaining equipment and tooling, and utilizing various materials and tools to build representative hardware.

KEY DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

• Collaborating with design and engineering teams to develop projects
• Leading the fabrication of mockups and prototypes
• Using hand tools, power tools, and machines to fabricate components
• Manufacturing products from a variety of raw materials, including wood, metal, composites, and plastic
• Operating shop equipment, such as table saws, drill presses, press brakes, grinders, CNC routers, and laser cutters
• Setting up and maintaining equipment
• 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

• High school Diploma or GED
• 8-15 years of experience in fabrication, R&D, or shop environment
• Safe operation of hand and power tools, miter saws, drill presses, and metal forming tools
• Knowledge of materials, fasteners, and manufacturing processes
• Ability to interpret schematics and assembly drawings
• Operational knowledge of 3D printers, laser cutters, and/or CNC routers
• Ability to work safely over uneven terrain, in confined spaces, or at height
• Knowledge of CAD/CAM software (such as Solidworks, Rhino 3D, Mastercam, or VCarve) is a plus
• Knowledge of electrical or mechanical systems is a plus
• 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

Embody our core values of leadership , innovation , and teamwork. In addition, to perform the job successfully, an individual should demonstrate the following 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