Lead Prototype Technician

Responsibilities

Prototype Manufacturing

• Build prototype, developmental, and first-article aircraft from engineering concept through flight-ready hardware.
• Perform precision drilling, reaming, countersinking, riveting, fastening, torqueing, safety wiring, structural assembly, and mechanical integration.
• Execute advanced composite manufacturing, including wet layup, bonding, trimming, machining, vacuum bagging, structural repairs, finishing, and final assembly.
• Perform complex aircraft modifications and structural repairs.
• Interpret engineering drawings, CAD models, GD&T, specifications, and manufacturing documentation.
• Partner with Design Engineering to provide Design for Manufacturability (DFM) feedback.
• Develop and improve manufacturing work instructions, build sequences, tooling concepts, fixtures, and standardized assembly methods.
• Support engineering validation, qualification builds, and flight-test campaigns.
• Fabricate custom brackets, tooling, fixtures, and prototype hardware.

Leadership and Process Development

• Drive prototype manufacturing excellence, manufacturing process development, and cross-functional leadership.
• Mentor Prototype Technicians while establishing best practices and craftsmanship standards.
• Deliver complex prototype hardware with exceptional quality.
• Solve manufacturing challenges before they become production issues.
• Influence engineering through practical manufacturing expertise.
• Develop repeatable manufacturing processes and elevate team capability.

Requirements

• 10+ years of aerospace manufacturing or prototype experience.
• Extensive aircraft structural assembly experience.
• Advanced composites experience, including wet layup and structural repair.
• Experience with engineering development builds.
• Ability to interpret complex engineering drawings and GD&T.
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. security clearance.

Nice-to-Haves

• Military aircraft, UAV, eVTOL, or rotorcraft experience.
• Prototype-to-production transition experience.
• AS9100 experience.
• A&P license or equivalent.
• Military aviation maintenance experience.
• Leadership or mentoring experience.

Compensation and Benefits

• Competitive compensation.
• Equity participation.
• Medical, dental, and vision benefits.
• 401(k).
• Generous paid time off.
• Professional development opportunities.