Research Assistant Jobs in Bend, OR (NOW HIRING)

WHO WE ARE

Join the Team Building World-Class Aircraft. Epic Aircraft is a leading manufacturer of high-performance, all-carbon-fiber, single-engine turboprop aircraft. Driven by innovation, safety, and craftsmanship, we have earned a reputation as a premier aerospace manufacturer. Located in beautiful Bend, Oregon, Epic offers an exciting work environment surrounded by mountains, rivers, and year-round outdoor recreation. If you're looking for a hands-on career with growth opportunities in aerospace manufacturing, we'd love to meet you.

WHAT YOU'LL DO

As a member of the Engineering Department, the R&D Technician provides hands-on technical support for research, development, engineering, testing, prototyping, and company projects. This position will fabricate, modify, and assemble prototype parts, tools, fixtures, and components using welding, metal fabrication, machining, and a variety of hand and power tools. The R&D Technician will work closely with Engineers and other departments to bring designs and concepts from the drawing or idea stage into practical, working solutions. The ideal candidate is mechanically inclined, detail-oriented, resourceful, and enjoys solving problems and figuring out how to make things work. This position requires the ability to work independently while also collaborating effectively with the Engineering team.

Responsibilities

• Support Engineering and R&D projects through hands-on fabrication, machining, welding, assembly, and modification
• Build prototypes and proof-of-concept components based on engineering drawings, sketches, or verbal direction
• Fabricate and modify tools, fixtures, jigs, brackets, and other items required to support engineering and testing activities
• Perform basic machining operations to produce or modify parts as needed
• Weld components using TIG and other appropriate welding processes
• Measure, inspect, fit, and adjust components to achieve the required dimensions and fit
• Assist Engineers with prototype development, testing, troubleshooting, and design improvements
• Identify fabrication or assembly issues and work with Engineers to develop practical solutions
• Safely operate and maintain shop equipment, tools, and machinery
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area, including machines, floors, racks, tools, and materials
• Properly care for and maintain company tools and equipment
• Follow established safety procedures, work instructions, and engineering requirements
• Document work and communicate project status, issues, and completed tasks as needed
• Support other Engineering, R&D, and company projects as assigned

WHAT YOU BRING TO THE TEAM

Requirements

• Ability to successfully complete an in-house welding qualification/assessment
• TIG welding experience is strongly preferred
• Experience with welding and fabricating a variety of metals and materials
• Experience in a manufacturing, fabrication, aerospace, or assembly environment is helpful
• Ability to fabricate and modify prototype parts, tools, fixtures, brackets, and other components
• Ability to properly and safely operate a variety of shop equipment, including drill press, lathe, mill, saws, and other basic machining equipment
• Comfortable using a wide variety of hand and power tools
• Ability to accurately measure and inspect parts using calipers, micrometers, scales, and other measuring tools
• Ability to read and interpret basic drawings, sketches, work instructions, and measurements
• Ability to assemble, modify, and troubleshoot components and prototypes
• Basic computer skills and willingness to learn engineering-related software and systems
• Strong mechanical aptitude and hands-on problem-solving skills
• An eye for detail and a commitment to producing high-quality work
• Ability to recognize problems, develop practical solutions, and communicate issues to Engineers or other team members
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision while knowing when to ask questions or seek direction
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team and maintain a positive, professional attitude
• Open to new ideas, challenges, and opportunities to learn new skills
• Reliable, dependable, and committed to maintaining a safe and organized work environment

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods while performing fabrication, machining, assembly, and testing activities.
• Ability to frequently lift, carry, push, and pull tools, equipment, materials, and components weighing up to 50 pounds, with assistance for heavier items.
• Ability to frequently bend, stoop, kneel, crouch, reach, and work in various positions required to access equipment and components.
• Ability to safely use hand tools, power tools, and shop equipment requiring manual dexterity, hand-eye coordination, and controlled movements.
• Ability to wear required personal protective equipment (PPE), including safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, welding helmet, and other protective equipment as required.

COMPENSATION AND SCHEDULE

Monday – Friday
7:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Starting Pay: Competitive DOE

BENEFITS AND CAREER GROWTH

At Epic Aircraft, we're committed to investing in our employees and providing opportunities for long-term success

• 100% employer-paid medical, dental, and vision coverage for employees
• 50% employer-paid coverage for eligible dependents
• 401(k) retirement plan with 3% company match
• Two weeks of paid time off accrued annually
• Seven paid holidays each year
• Paid company shutdown between Christmas and New Year's Day
• Discretionary year-end bonus program
• Company-provided work shirts
• Performance-based pay increases
• Access to the Epic Aircraft Flying Club
• Ongoing training and advancement opportunities
• Supportive team environment and company-sponsored events
• Note: Relocation assistance is not available for this position

Build Your Future in Aerospace

Whether you're beginning your manufacturing career or looking to develop new technical skills, Epic Aircraft provides a pathway to grow in a dynamic and rewarding industry.

Epic Aircraft does not accept unsolicited requests from third-party staffing agencies.