Prototype & Experimental Welder

LiquidPiston Inc.; Suffield (CT); On-site; USD 50,000 - 75,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

3 weeks PTO

Comprehensive healthcare coverage

Equity participation

401(k) with match

Growth opportunities

Job summary

LiquidPiston Inc. is looking for a skilled Prototype & Experimental Welder to work onsite in Suffield, Connecticut. In this role, you will support the development of next-generation rotary engine technology by fabricating and assembling prototype hardware. Ideal candidates will have strong welding skills and experience in a fast-paced prototype environment.

The position offers a competitive benefits package including PTO, healthcare coverage, and equity participation. Join our team and contribute to innovation in engine technology!

Qualifications

• Experience in a prototype or advanced manufacturing environment preferred.
• Ability to read engineering drawings and CAD-based concepts.
• Experience with fabrication across multiple materials.

Responsibilities

• Fabricate and repair prototype components for engineering programs.
• Perform high-quality welding on various materials.
• Support prototype engine builds with custom tooling.

Skills

TIG welding

MIG welding

Metalworking skills

Mechanical aptitude

Troubleshooting ability

Attention to detail

Problem-solving skills

Tools

Manual machines (mills, lathes)

Precision hand tools

Job description

Prototype & Experimental Welder - LiquidPiston

This role is fully onsite in Bloomfield, CT, five days per week, and the company will be relocating to Suffield, CT later in 2026.

About the company:

LiquidPiston Inc. is seeking a skilled and motivated Prototype & Experimental Welder to support the development of next‑generation rotary engine technology. In this hands‑on role, you will work closely with engineers and technicians to fabricate, modify, and assemble prototype hardware used in advanced research and development programs.

Position Overview:

This position is ideal for a welder/fabricator who thrives in a fast‑paced prototype environment, enjoys solving complex fabrication challenges, and takes pride in precision craftsmanship. You will play a key role in supporting rapid hardware iteration, custom tooling development, and experimental engine builds within LiquidPiston’s prototype machine shop.

Responsibilities:

• Fabricate, modify, and repair prototype components and test rigs to support engineering development programs.
• Perform high‑quality TIG and MIG welding, brazing, and fabrication on a variety of materials including steel, stainless steel, aluminum, titanium, brass, and other alloys.
• Support prototype engine builds through the creation of custom components, fixtures, and tooling.
• Operate manual machine shop equipment including milling machines and lathes.
• Measure, inspect, and verify components using precision hand tools, gauges, cameras, and other inspection equipment.
• Assist with electrical and wiring tasks as needed for prototype systems and test equipment.
• Collaborate closely with engineers and technicians to improve manufacturability, assembly processes, and fabrication methods.
• Troubleshoot and debug mechanical systems and prototype hardware.
• Contribute ideas and practical solutions in a highly iterative R&D environment.
• Maintain a positive, adaptable, and team‑oriented attitude while supporting multiple fast‑moving projects.

Qualifications:

• Experience with TIG and MIG welding in a prototype, R&D, aerospace, motorsports, defense, or advanced manufacturing environment preferred.
• Strong fabrication and metalworking skills across multiple materials and processes.
• Ability to read engineering drawings, sketches, and CAD‑based concepts.
• Experience operating manual machining equipment such as mills and lathes.
• Familiarity with prototype development, rapid iteration, and custom fixture/tooling fabrication.
• Mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting ability.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality workmanship.
• Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively within a multidisciplinary engineering team.
• Positive attitude, creativity, flexibility, and strong problem‑solving skills.

Benefits:

• PTO We value work–life balance and encourage time to rest and recharge. Our benefits include 3 weeks of PTO (which covers vacation and sick time) plus 10 paid holidays.
• Comprehensive healthcare coverage: medical, dental, and vision plans
• Equity participation : RSUs for all permanent employees
• 401(k) with match : 100% up to 3%, plus 50% match for 3–5% range
• Growth opportunities : Mentorship, training, and leadership development

Our Culture: We challenge convention and solve hard problems. We move fast, think boldly, and iterate quickly. Our team thrives on collaboration, creativity, and resilience. We take calculated risks and believe that every setback is a steppingstone toward breakthrough innovation.

Equal Opportunity Employer:

LiquidPiston, Inc. is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment regardless of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or veteran status, and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.

All offers of employment at LiquidPiston are contingent upon the successful completion of a pre‑employment background check and drug screening.