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Apprentice Prototype Build Engineer Jobs in California

Build Engineer - Structures

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$91.80K - $187.45K/yr

Drive the transition from prototype to production for complex aerospace assemblies. * Ruthlessly ... Design and implement full-stack build processes-factory layout, tooling, test flow, and vehicle ...

Build Engineer - Structures

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$91.80K - $187.45K/yr

Drive the transition from prototype to production for complex aerospace assemblies. * Ruthlessly ... Design and implement full-stack build processes-factory layout, tooling, test flow, and vehicle ...

Responsible for assembly and integration of prototype and first-article turbomachinery. hardware ... Receive mentorship from senior build engineers while gradually taking on more responsibility.

Tooling Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$138.55K - $187.45K/yr

... art of rapid iterative prototyping to build the fastest aircraft in the world today. By ... A Tooling Build Engineer on the Manufacturing team is responsible for the design, development, and ...

... art of rapid iterative prototyping to build the fastest aircraft in the world today. By ... A Tooling Build Engineer on the Manufacturing team is responsible for the design, development, and ...

Tooling Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$138.55K - $187.45K/yr

... art of rapid iterative prototyping to build the fastest aircraft in the world today. By ... A Tooling Build Engineer on the Manufacturing team is responsible for the design, development, and ...

This role is for an experienced engineer who writes code, debugs real build failures, prototypes infrastructure, and scales systems through direct technical contribution. You will own core build ...

Prototype Engineer

Irvine, CA

$38.50 - $43/hr

The Prototype Data Analyst is a critical cross-functional role responsible for managing and ... build tracking. A bachelor's degree in Engineering, Supply Chain, or Data Management is required ...

OPTO-MECHANICAL BUILD ENGINEER Freeform builds AI-native manufacturing systems that unify software ... Develop procedures for scaling in-house opto-mechanical build processes from prototype to volume ...

OPTO-MECHANICAL BUILD ENGINEER Freeform builds AI-native manufacturing systems that unify software ... Develop procedures for scaling in-house opto-mechanical build processes from prototype to volume ...

OPTO-MECHANICAL BUILD ENGINEER Freeform builds AI-native manufacturing systems that unify software ... Develop procedures for scaling in-house opto-mechanical build processes from prototype to volume ...

Prototype Engineer

Irvine, CA

$38.50 - $43/hr

The Prototype Data Analyst is a critical cross-functional role responsible for managing and ... build tracking. A bachelor's degree in Engineering, Supply Chain, or Data Management is required ...

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Apprentice Prototype Build Engineer information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Apprentice Prototype Build Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Apprentice Prototype Build Engineer, a solid understanding of mechanical and electrical principles, hands-on fabrication skills, and a relevant technical qualification or apprenticeship are essential. Familiarity with CAD software, workshop machinery, and safety regulations is typically required, along with any industry-specific certifications. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are key soft skills that set candidates apart. These competencies ensure accurate prototype assembly, efficient troubleshooting, and safe, collaborative progress throughout the engineering development process.

What are typical responsibilities and learning opportunities for an Apprentice Prototype Build Engineer during the initial months on the job?

As an Apprentice Prototype Build Engineer, your early responsibilities will focus on supporting senior engineers in assembling, testing, and refining prototype components. You'll learn hands-on skills such as interpreting technical drawings, using fabrication tools, and following build processes in a workshop environment. Collaboration is key—expect to work closely with multidisciplinary teams, including design engineers and technicians, to troubleshoot and implement design changes. This role offers significant learning opportunities, from gaining familiarity with new manufacturing technologies to developing problem-solving abilities essential for advancement.

What are Apprentice Prototype Build Engineers?

Apprentice Prototype Build Engineers are entry-level professionals who assist in the design, assembly, and testing of prototype products or components, typically in the automotive, aerospace, or manufacturing industries. They work under the guidance of experienced engineers and technicians, gaining hands-on experience with new technologies and processes. Their responsibilities often include interpreting technical drawings, using specialized tools, and recording test results. This role is usually part of a structured apprenticeship program that combines on-the-job training with classroom learning, helping apprentices develop the skills needed to become qualified build engineers.

What is the difference between Apprentice Prototype Build Engineer vs Mechanical Technician?

AspectApprentice Prototype Build EngineerMechanical Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; technical training or apprenticeshipHigh school diploma; technical certification or associate degree often preferred
Work EnvironmentManufacturing or R&D labs; hands-on prototype assemblyManufacturing plants; equipment maintenance and assembly
Industry UsageCommon in aerospace, automotive, and product development sectorsWidespread across manufacturing and industrial sectors
Job FocusAssisting in prototype build, learning manufacturing processesMaintaining, repairing, and assembling mechanical systems

The Apprentice Prototype Build Engineer typically focuses on learning and assisting in prototype assembly within manufacturing or R&D environments, often as part of an apprenticeship. In contrast, a Mechanical Technician performs maintenance, repairs, and assembly of mechanical systems, usually with more experience and certification. Both roles are essential in manufacturing industries but differ in experience level and specific responsibilities.

What are the most commonly searched types of Prototype Build Engineer jobs in California? The most popular types of Prototype Build Engineer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Apprentice Prototype Build Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Apprentice Prototype Build Engineer job openings:
Build Engineer - Structures

Build Engineer - Structures

Hermeus

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$91.80K - $187.45K/yr

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago


Job description

Hermeus is a venture-backed defense aviation company reclaiming the lost art of rapid iterative prototyping to build the fastest aircraft in the world today. By prioritizing relentless hardware iteration, we deliver high-speed systems at the pace of the modern battlefield. We work with the Department of War to provide the high-speed capabilities our nation and its allies need to maintain a durable, asymmetric advantage.

This role sits at the intersection of engineering design, manufacturing, integration and test for flight vehicles. You'll be embedded with design and production teams, owning everything from hardware design, tooling, testing and flight readiness to process development and vehicle assembly. We are hiring entry-level through senior-level. 
Responsibilities
  • Lead detailed project planning and drive hardware delivery on aggressive timelines. 
  • Collaborate directly with high level design concepts turning them into detailed designs including final geometry, material selection and DFM. 
  • Drive the transition from prototype to production for complex aerospace assemblies. 
  • Ruthlessly question process complexity-delete parts, eliminate waste, simplify flow. 
  • Design and implement full-stack build processes-factory layout, tooling, test flow, and vehicle integration. 
  • Develop and run test procedures for flight hardware. 
  • Serve as a force multiplier across production, test, and design teams. 
Basic Qualifications
  • Strong engineering first principles. 
  • Bachelor's degree in mechanical, aerospace, manufacturing, or related engineering field. 
  • Hands-on experience with physical hardware (internships, labs, project teams all count). 
  • Proven ability to design, build, break, and iterate quickly. 
  • Comfort with CAD, test equipment, hand tools. 
  • Familiarity with manufacturing processes (machining, welding, forming, etc.) and GD&T fundamentals. 
Preferred Skills and Experience
  • Designed and released flight hardware. 
  • Familiarity with Siemens Teamcenter and NX. 
  • Leadership experience on project teams or in mentorship roles. 
  • You've built something that's flown, broken, or both. 
  • Experience standing up production lines or test infrastructure in a fast-paced environment. 
Additional Requirements
  • Must be willing to travel to test sites, other Hermeus offices, and partner locations as needed (up to 25% travel) 
 
$91,800 - $187,450 a year
U.S. EXPORT CONTROL COMPLIANCE STATUS 
The person hired will have access to information and items subject to U.S. export controls, and therefore, must either be a "U.S. person" as defined by22 C.F.R. 120.62or otherwise eligible for deemed export licensing. US persons include U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals, lawful permanent residents (green card holders), and asylees and refugees with such status granted, not pending. 
 
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY
Hermeus is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions at Hermeus are based solely on merit, competence, and qualifications, without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability, or any other legally protected status.
 
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.
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