Space Hardware Prototype Engineer — Flexible Hours & Impact

Observable Space; Los Angeles (CA); On-site; USD 34,000 - 62,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible scheduling

Impactful hardware

Space tech environment

Job summary

Observable Space, based in Los Angeles, seeks a Prototype Engineer to join our state-of-the-art prototyping facility. You will machine challenging materials from glass to exotic metals, with a highly flexible schedule and on-call responsibilities for urgent parts.

The role requires 5+ years in a prototyping environment, proficiency with SolidWorks, CAM software (Mastercam/Fusion CAM), and hands-on CNC experience. Expect non-standard hours and close collaboration with engineers.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of hands-on experience in an engineering prototyping shop or machine shop environment.
• Working knowledge of SolidWorks (or similar CAD tools).
• Significant experience with CAM software such as Mastercam or Fusion CAM.
• Proficient with modern CNC machine operations and part inspection.
• Ability to interpret and execute mechanical drawings and GD&T.
• Familiarity with common materials (aluminum, titanium, stainless steel, plastics, etc.) and their machining characteristics.
• Comfortable with occasional non-standard hours, including occasional late-night or weekend requests.

Responsibilities

• Operate a wide range of fabrication tools including: 3D printers, 5-axis CNC mills and lathes, tube and flat-bed lasers, waterjets, wire EDM, and high-precision manual tools.
• Participate in engineering design reviews to evaluate manufacturability.
• Collaborate closely with engineering teams to iterate on part designs in real time.
• Help design novel machining processes and methodologies that will be used in our Michigan production facility.
• Work from SolidWorks models and technical drawings to produce high-tolerance parts.
• Prepare CAM programs in Mastercam, Fusion 360, or similar tools.
• Help develop custom fixturing, jigs, and one-off assemblies for rapid prototyping.
• Assist in maintaining, upgrading, and tuning machines and shop infrastructure.
• Participate in design for manufacturability (DFM) reviews and provide direct feedback to engineers.
• Occasionally assist with integration or test setups when needed.

Skills

Hands-on prototyping

Mechanical intuition

Team collaboration

Attention to detail

Tools

SolidWorks

Mastercam

Fusion 360

CNC machine operation

Job description

Observable Space, based in Los Angeles, seeks a Prototype Engineer to join our state-of-the-art prototyping facility. You will machine challenging materials from glass to exotic metals, with a highly flexible schedule and on-call responsibilities for urgent parts.

The role requires 5+ years in a prototyping environment, proficiency with SolidWorks, CAM software (Mastercam/Fusion CAM), and hands-on CNC experience. Expect non-standard hours and close collaboration with engineers.