Mechanical Prototyping Technician

Ocean Power Technologies Inc•Richmond, CA

1d•$36 - $40•Onsite

About The Position

We are seeking a Mechanical Prototyping Technician who is fundamentally a builder and fabricator – someone who thrives on turning concepts into physical reality. This role is ideal for a hands-on “maker” with strong intuition for how things go together, and the ability to iterate quickly on prototype builds. The ideal candidate enjoys working with their hands, fabricating parts, modifying assemblies, and improving designs in real time. You are comfortable working from detailed CAD drawings as well as rough concepts, and you take pride in bringing early-stage prototypes to life through practical problem-solving and craftsmanship. This role requires a self-starter who can operate with minimal direction, while collaborating closely with engineers in a fast-paced, highly iterative prototyping environment. You should be adaptable, resourceful, and energized by building things that operate in demanding marine environments. Your work will directly contribute to the development of next-generation marine robotics systems and play a key role in advancing ocean-based technologies that address critical global challenges.

Requirements

US citizenship
Minimum 3 years of hands-on experience in fabrication, prototyping, or mechanical build environments
Strong hands-on skills with small hand tools and power tools
Proficiency with mills, grinders, saws, drill presses, and general shop equipment
Experience operating heavy machinery, such as forklifts
Ability to work with a wide range of raw materials (aluminum, steel, plastics, wood, composites) to build functional systems and prototypes
Experience assembling and troubleshooting mechanical systems; basic familiarity with low-voltage electrical systems
Ability to interpret CAD drawings and translate concepts into physical builds
Ability to work on and around boats and docks
Ability to work with minimal direction while knowing when to ask for input or support
Ability to work in a fast-paced, iterative environment without sacrificing quality
Positive, hardworking attitude with strong teamwork and problem-solving skills
Willingness to work overtime as needed to meet critical build and deployment deadlines

Nice To Haves

Experience with electromechanical system assembly and integration
TIG or MIG welding experience, particularly with aluminum
Experience working on marine systems, robotics, or outdoor-deployed hardware
Familiarity with prototyping environments or R&D labs

Responsibilities

Build and assemble prototype mechanical systems for WAM-V® platforms, PowerBuoy® systems, and related components from both detailed CAD drawings and conceptual designs
Fabricate, modify, and fit components using a variety of materials (metals, plastics, composites, wood, etc.)
Build custom jigs, fixtures, and test setups to support rapid prototyping and validation
Perform hands-on iteration and rework of assemblies to improve performance, fit, and durability
Perform QC on 3rd party and in-house components and assemblies
Test and troubleshoot mechanical and low-voltage electrical systems
Assist in updates to QA program and documentation; follow manufacturing best practices for marine and robotic systems
Assist with maintenance and improvements associated with ISO requirements
Design, set up, and maintain prototyping workstations, tools, and fabrication areas
Maintain, clean, and organize production and prototyping floors