Fiberglass Craftsman/Finisher (part-time contract)

BIOptimizers•Burlington, IA

12d•Onsite

About The Position

BiOptimizers Robotics, an innovative team developing a cutting-edge consumer product prototype that pushes the boundaries of design and functionality. We're seeking a skilled Fiberglass Craftsman/Finisher with a keen eye for detail and independent problem-solving abilities to join our project-based efforts on a part-time, contract basis. Reporting directly to the Head of the Robotics Department, you'll take ownership of the fiberglass workflow—from mold-making to final polish—figuring out challenges on your own to deliver flawless results. This flexible, hands-on role in our local workshop accommodates the variable timelines of fiberglass work: come and go as needed for curing and project stages, with no rigid 9-5 schedule. Location: Work performed out of our local workshop in Burlington, Iowa. Your Impact: You'll craft high-quality molds and parts that elevate our prototypes to professional standards, enabling seamless testing and iteration. Success looks like invisible seams, mirror-like finishes, and reliable structures that withstand real-world use—all while adapting to evolving project needs with patience and ingenuity.

Requirements

3+ years of proven hands-on experience in fiberglass/composite work (mold-making, seaming, finishing, polishing)—ideally from automotive bodywork, custom fabrication, or prototyping.
Expertise in painting, sanding, and surface finishing for high-gloss, professional results.
Familiarity with tools and equipment including resins, gelcoats, orbital sanders, spray guns, air tools, and wet sanding equipment.
Strong independent problem-solving skills, patience, and meticulous attention to detail in a fast-paced prototype environment.
Flexible part-time availability (hours vary by project stage) with reliable access to our Burlington, IA workshop.
Ability to lift materials, work with resins and chemicals, and stand for extended periods.
Capable of performing physical labor including sanding, painting, and finishing tasks.
Must know how to properly use protective equipment (respirators, gloves, eye protection, etc.) when working with chemicals and materials.

Responsibilities

Design and create precise fiberglass molds from prototypes using lamination, layup, and reinforcement techniques.
Handle seaming, trimming, and structural assembly for both molds and final products.
Finish, sand, polish, and apply gelcoat/paint for showroom-quality aesthetics an durability.
Troubleshoot processes independently, optimizing for prototype speed and quality (e.g., curing times, material mixes).
Maintain a tidy workshop space, document techniques for team knowledge-sharing, and collaborate as needed.