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Apprentice Prototype Build Engineer Jobs in California

Hermeus

Tooling Engineer

Los Angeles, CA

$138K - $187K/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 ...

Physical Intelligence

Prototype Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$42 - $47.25/hr

We are a group of engineers, scientists, roboticists, and company builders developing foundation ... We're looking for a Prototype Engineer, an engineering generalist who sits at the intersection of ...

Freeform

Opto-Mechanical Build Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$90K - $200K/yr

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 ...

Ampa Inc.

Sr. Prototype Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$75 - $90/hr

You'll work closely with engineering teams to build, troubleshoot, test, and improve early‑stage ... Prototype Development & Testing: Build, troubleshoot, and iteratively test biomedical and ...

Freeform

Opto-Mechanical Build Engineer

Los Angeles, CA

$90K - $200K/yr

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 ...

Freeform

Opto-Mechanical Build Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$90K - $200K/yr

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 ...

Ampa, Inc.

Sr. Prototype Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$75K - $90K/yr

You'll work closely with engineering teams to build, troubleshoot, test, and improve early-stage ... Prototype Development & Testing: Build, troubleshoot, and iteratively test biomedical and ...

Observable Space

Prototype Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$95K - $130K/yr

About the Role We are seeking a Prototype Engineer to join our Los Angeles-based state-of-the-art ... Build out a team of R&D specialists. * High-trust, flexible scheduling. * Direct impact on rapid ...

RivCut

Prototype Machinist

Union City, CA · On-site

Company Description RivCut partners with engineers, startups, and manufacturers in aerospace ... Relevant vocational training, apprenticeship, or technical certification in machining or ...

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All JobsApprentice Prototype Build Engineer JobsApprentice Prototype Build Engineer Jobs in California

Apprentice Prototype Build Engineer information

What is an apprentice prototype build engineer?

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 are the 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 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 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:

Apprentice Prototype Build Engineer jobs near you

Tooling Engineer

Hermeus

Los Angeles, CA

$138K - $187K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 2 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.

About The Role:
 
A Tooling Build Engineer on the Manufacturing team is responsible for the design, development, and validation of innovative tooling, fixtures, and ground support equipment that enable the prototyping, integration, and testing of advanced structural assemblies. This role emphasizes creativity, rapid iteration, and collaboration with multidisciplinary teams to support early-stage research and development.
Responsibilities
  • Own the design, fabrication, and implementation of advanced tooling, fixtures, and integration aids to support R&D, prototype builds, and test campaigns.
  • Partner with structures, manufacturing, and test teams to define tooling requirements, integration flow, and process interfaces.
  • Collaborate across engineering disciplines and external vendors to deliver rapid, high-precision prototype tooling solutions.
  • Leverage advanced materials and manufacturing methods, including additive and composite fabrication, to enhance performance and efficiency.
  • Perform design validations, mechanical checks, and hands-on trials to qualify tooling for development and production use.
  • Drive continuous improvement by developing and implementing tooling upgrades that reduce build time, improve accuracy, and streamline operations.
  • Maintain documentation, configuration control, and safety standards across all tooling systems.
  • Coordinate schedule, priorities, and vendor relationships to ensure tooling deliverables align with critical R&D and integration milestones.
  • Act as a key interface between engineering and build teams to resolve integration challenges and sustain build velocity.
Requirements
  • 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
  • Hands-on experience with prototype fabrication methods including machining, additive manufacturing, composites, and rapid prototyping.
  • Proficiency in CAD software (e.g., CATIA, SolidWorks, NX) for tooling design and iteration.
  • Knowledge of GD&T and ability to interpret and apply engineering drawings to prototype development.
  • Familiarity with R&D environments and early-stage design-build-test cycles for high-performance aerospace systems.
  • Strong problem-solving skills, with the ability to experiment, adapt, and iterate quickly in ambiguous development settings.
  • Excellent communication skills with the ability to collaborate across engineering, prototype build, and test teams.
  • Knowledge of lean prototyping and continuous improvement principles in low-volume, experimental environments.

The salary range listed for this role is intended as a general guideline. Final compensation will be determined based on a variety of factors, including role scope and responsibilities, relevant experience, education and training, key skills, market data, and business needs.

At Hermeus, compensation is only one part of our total rewards package. We offer competitive pay, equity, and a range of benefits designed to support our team.

Benefits:
  • Health & Wellness: 100% employer-paid healthcare and pet insurance
  • Financial: Competitive pay, stock options, 401(k) retirement plan, and potential year-end bonuses
  • Time Off: Paid parental leave, 12 federal holidays, unlimited PTO for exempt employees, and generous accrued PTO for non-exempt employees
  • Office Perks: Weekly paid office lunches and fully stocked breakrooms
 
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 by 22 C.F.R. § 120.62 or 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.