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Assistant Prototype Model Shop Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

Aerospace prototype welders are commonly expected to work with TIG/GTAW processes, interpret ... Mentor junior welders and assist in establishing best practices within the fabrication shop.

Aerospace prototype welders are commonly expected to work with TIG/GTAW processes, interpret ... Mentor junior welders and assist in establishing best practices within the fabrication shop.

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Assistant Prototype Model Shop information

What are some common challenges faced by an assistant prototype model shop employee, and how can they be overcome?

Assistant Prototype Model Shop employees often encounter challenges such as tight project deadlines, adapting to evolving design requirements, and working with unfamiliar materials or fabrication techniques. To overcome these challenges, it's important to maintain strong communication with engineers and designers, be proactive in seeking clarification on project specifications, and continually develop hands-on skills through on-the-job learning. Collaborating closely with team members and staying organized can also help ensure prototypes are completed accurately and efficiently.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an assistant prototype model shop?

To thrive as an Assistant Prototype Model Shop, you need strong mechanical aptitude, hands-on fabrication skills, and familiarity with prototyping processes, often supported by a technical diploma or relevant experience. Proficiency with tools such as CNC machines, 3D printers, and CAD software, along with safety certifications, is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication help individuals collaborate and adapt to evolving project demands. These skills ensure accurate prototype creation, efficient workflow, and safe, high-quality output in a fast-paced development environment.

What is the difference between Assistant Prototype Model Shop vs Prototype Model Maker?

AspectAssistant Prototype Model ShopPrototype Model Maker
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; technical trainingTechnical training or certification in model making
Work EnvironmentManufacturing or workshop setting, assisting senior staffWorkshop or studio, creating detailed prototypes
Employer & IndustryAutomotive, aerospace, product design companiesSimilar industries, often working independently or in teams
Primary ResponsibilitiesSupporting model making tasks, preparing materialsBuilding, assembling, and finishing prototype models

The Assistant Prototype Model Shop role primarily involves supporting and assisting senior model makers in a workshop environment, focusing on preparation and support tasks. In contrast, Prototype Model Makers are responsible for creating detailed, finished prototypes. Both roles require technical skills and industry experience, but the Model Maker role involves more hands-on creation and craftsmanship.

What is an assistant prototype model shop?

Assistant Prototype Model Shop jobs involve supporting the creation and assembly of prototypes and models, often for engineering, design, or manufacturing purposes. Individuals in this role typically help with tasks such as preparing materials, operating basic machinery, maintaining tools, and assisting senior technicians or model makers. They may also be responsible for keeping the work area organized and ensuring projects stay on schedule. These positions require attention to detail, manual dexterity, and the ability to follow instructions closely. The role is an entry point for those interested in model making, engineering, or product design.
What are the most commonly searched types of Prototype Model Shop jobs in Texas? The most popular types of Prototype Model Shop jobs in Texas are:
What are popular job titles related to Assistant Prototype Model Shop jobs in Texas? For Assistant Prototype Model Shop jobs in Texas, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Assistant Prototype Model Shop jobs in Texas look for? The top searched job categories for Assistant Prototype Model Shop jobs in Texas are:
What cities in Texas are hiring for Assistant Prototype Model Shop jobs? Cities in Texas with the most Assistant Prototype Model Shop job openings:
Infographic showing various Assistant Prototype Model Shop job openings in Texas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Staff Technician, Welder (R5113)

Shield AI

Dallas, TX โ€ข On-site

$34 - $51/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 5 hours ago


Job description

Shield AI is a venture-backed defense-tech company with the mission of protecting service members and civilians with intelligent systems. Its products include Hivemind autonomy software, V-BAT and X-BAT aircraft, and Aechelon simulation and synthetic reality technologies. With offices and facilities across the U.S., Europe, the Middle East, and Asia-Pacific, Shield AI's technology actively supports operations worldwide. For more information, visit www.shield.ai. Follow Shield AI on LinkedIn, X, Instagram, and YouTube.
Job Description:
The L4 Staff Welder is a senior-level fabrication specialist responsible for precision welding, prototype development, and low-volume aerospace hardware fabrication in a fast-paced R&D and prototype manufacturing environment. This role supports engineering teams in building flight-critical and mission-critical components using advanced welding techniques and aerospace-grade materials. The ideal candidate combines expert welding craftsmanship with strong problem-solving skills, blueprint interpretation, and collaboration in prototype development cycles. Aerospace prototype welders are commonly expected to work with TIG/GTAW processes, interpret engineering drawings with GD&T, and support AS9100-quality environments.
What you'll do:
  • Perform precision TIG/GTAW welding on aerospace materials including stainless steel, aluminum, titanium, Inconel.
  • Fabricate prototype assemblies, fixtures, tooling, and development hardware from engineering drawings, CAD models, and sketches.
  • Read and interpret blueprints, welding symbols, and GD&T requirements.
  • Work closely with design, manufacturing, and test engineers to iterate prototype designs rapidly.
  • Execute welds capable of meeting aerospace inspection standards including dye penetrant, leak testing, and X-ray inspection where required.
  • Set up and operate welding and fabrication equipment including TIG welders, orbital welders, saws, grinders, positioners, and fixturing tools.
  • Inspect completed welds for dimensional accuracy, penetration, distortion, and cosmetic quality.
  • Repair weld defects and recommend process improvements to improve manufacturability and repeatability.
  • Support development and qualification of welding procedures and work instructions.
  • Maintain compliance with AS9100, AWS, OSHA, and internal quality standards.
  • Mentor junior welders and assist in establishing best practices within the fabrication shop.
  • Document fabrication activities, process notes, and prototype deviations accurately.

Required qualifications:
  • High school diploma or GED required; technical welding certification preferred.
  • 8+ years of precision welding experience in aerospace, motorsports, defense, or prototype manufacturing environments.
  • Expert-level TIG/GTAW welding proficiency.
  • Experience welding thin-wall tubing and precision assemblies.
  • Ability to pass aerospace weld qualification tests in multiple positions and materials.
  • Strong understanding of metallurgy, weld distortion control, heat management, and fixturing.
  • Ability to read complex engineering drawings and GD&T.
  • Experience with aerospace inspection requirements and quality systems.
  • Strong communication and collaboration skills in cross-functional engineering environments.

Preferred qualifications:
  • AWS D17.1 or equivalent aerospace welding certification.
  • Experience with pressure vessels, propulsion systems, fluid systems, or flight hardware.
  • Familiarity with vacuum, leak-check, or clean-room fabrication requirements.
  • Fabrication or machining familiarity.
  • Experience in prototype or R&D environments supporting rapid iteration cycles.
  • Ability to support design-for-manufacturing feedback during product development.

Physical requirements:
  • Ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to 50 lbs.
  • Comfortable working around welding fumes, heat, and fabrication equipment while using PPE.
  • Manual dexterity and visual acuity for precision weld work.

Work environment:
  • This position operates within a prototype aerospace fabrication shop supporting rapid development programs. Work may involve quick-turn engineering changes, low-volume production, and high-precision hardware fabrication under tight schedules.

Typical skills for success:
  • Precision craftsmanship
  • Attention to detail
  • Strong troubleshooting ability
  • Ownership mentality
  • Adaptability in fast-paced prototype environments
  • Collaboration with engineering teams

$34 - $51 an hour
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Full-time regular employee offer package:
Pay within range listed + Bonus + Benefits + Equity
Temporary employee offer package:
Pay within range listed above + temporary benefits package (applicable after 60 days of employment)
Salary compensation is influenced by a wide array of factors including but not limited to skill set, level of experience, licenses and certifications, and specific work location. All offers are contingent on a cleared background and possible reference check. Military fellows and part-time employees are not eligible for benefits. Please speak to your talent acquisition representative for more information.
Shield AI is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace and is an affirmative action employer. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, marital status, disability, gender identity or Veteran status. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please let us know.
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. 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.