Prototype Fabrication Technician - Hands-On R&D Machining

willowwoodco; Mount Sterling (OH); On-site; USD 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

WillowWood seeks a Fabrication Technician to support our R&D team in hands-on fabrication, machining, welding, and assembly of prototype parts and tooling used in product development.

The successful candidate will work closely with engineers to build, modify, and evaluate prototypes, tooling, and processes, applying welding and machining skills. A strong mechanical mindset, safety, and teamwork are essential in our dynamic development environment.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Welding experience required or strongly preferred.
• Experience with welding techniques and metal fabrication equipment.
• Experience using manual and/or CNC machine shop equipment.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and hands-on problem-solving skills.
• Ability to read measurements from drawings, sketches, or specifications.
• Ability to work independently with limited supervision.
• Ability to collaborate in a team environment.
• Basic computer skills for communication and documentation.
• CNC programming and machine setup experience is a plus.
• Experience with mold fabrication and use is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Execute hands-on fabrication and development tasks assigned by the Engineering Team.
• Fabricate, machine, weld, modify, and assemble prototype parts, tooling, and test equipment.
• Use manual and/or CNC machine shop equipment to produce prototype components.
• Assist in the design and implementation of experiments to evaluate prototype products and processes.
• Collaborate with engineers and other team members to brainstorm, build, troubleshoot, and test prototype products and processes.
• Support modifications and repairs to prototype components and tooling as needed.
• Document fabrication techniques and quality testing methods for training and transfer of development products and processes.
• Assist with the transition of new products and processes from development to manufacturing, including training production personnel.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area.
• Perform other duties as required.

Skills

Mechanical aptitude

Welding experience

Reading drawings (blueprints)

Hand tools & machining

CNC programming

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

CNC machine shop equipment

Manual machine shop equipment

Mold fabrication equipment

Job description

WillowWood seeks a Fabrication Technician to support our R&D team in hands-on fabrication, machining, welding, and assembly of prototype parts and tooling used in product development.

The successful candidate will work closely with engineers to build, modify, and evaluate prototypes, tooling, and processes, applying welding and machining skills. A strong mechanical mindset, safety, and teamwork are essential in our dynamic development environment.