Prototype & Experimental Welder

LiquidPiston, Inc.; Suffield (CT); On-site; USD 60,000 - 85,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

PTO

Healthcare coverage

Equity RSUs

401(k) match

Growth opportunities

Job summary

LiquidPiston, Inc. in Bloomfield, CT seeks a hands-on Prototype & Experimental Welder to fabricate, modify, and assemble prototype hardware in a fast-paced R&D environment. This fully onsite role will relocate to Suffield, CT later in 2026.

You will work with engineers to support rapid hardware iteration, tool/fixture fabrication, and engine build experiments, performing TIG and MIG welding across steel, aluminum, titanium, and other alloys, while maintaining precision and safety.

Qualifications

• Experience with TIG and MIG welding in a prototype/R&D environment.
• Strong fabrication and metalworking skills across multiple materials.
• Ability to read engineering drawings and CAD-based concepts.
• Experience operating mills and lathes.
• Familiarity with prototype development and fixture/tooling fabrication.
• Mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting ability.
• Attention to detail and commitment to quality workmanship.
• Ability to work independently while collaborating with a multidisciplinary team.

Responsibilities

• Fabricate, modify, and repair prototype components and test rigs.
• Perform TIG and MIG welding, brazing, and fabrication on varied materials.
• Support engine builds through custom components, fixtures, and tooling.
• Operate mills and lathes in the manual machine shop.
• Measure, inspect, and verify components with precision tools.
• Assist with electrical and wiring tasks on prototype systems.
• Collaborate with engineers to improve manufacturability and processes.
• Troubleshoot and debug mechanical systems and prototypes.
• Contribute ideas in a fast-moving R&D environment.
• Maintain a positive, adaptable, team-oriented attitude on multiple projects.

Skills

TIG welding

MIG welding

Fabrication

Read CAD drawings

Machining (mills, lathes)

Prototype development

Troubleshooting

Attention to detail

Team collaboration

Tools

Milling machines

Lathes

Precision gauges

CAD concepts

Job description

Prototype & Experimental Welder - LiquidPiston

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

About the company:

LiquidPiston Inc. is seeking a skilled and motivatedPrototype & Experimental Welderto 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:

• PTOWe 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 healthcarecoverage: 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.