Prototype Associate

INVINCIBLE BOAT COMPANY LLC•Sarasota, FL

3d•Onsite

About The Position

The successful candidate will be responsible for the preparation and creation of plugs and molds, including designing, shaping, and fabrication needed for boat manufacturing molds. Will operate tools needed for manufacturing and production processes while working closely with engineers, designers, and production teams to translate technical designs into functional, high-quality plugs. This role requires craftsmanship, precision, strong attention to detail, and the ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced, safety-conscious environment.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent; technical/vocational training or certification in manufacturing, composites, tooling or a related field preferred.
Proven experience in fiberglass molding, tooling, composite manufacturing, and resins is highly desirable.
Experience in plug-making, mold-making, or related fields such as woodworking, fiberglass fabrication, or composite manufacturing.
Experience with CNC machining and CAD/CAM software (e.g., AutoCAD, SolidWorks) is highly desirable.
Comfortable working in a manufacturing environment with exposure to dust, chemicals, and machinery noise
Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and blueprints.
Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting abilities.
Ability to lift and handle heavy materials, stand for long periods, and work in physically demanding environments.
Knowledge of the marine industry or manufacturing sector is a plus.

Responsibilities

Interpret technical drawings, CAD files, 3D models, and blueprints to understand design specifications.
Collaborate with designers and engineers to refine designs for manufacturability and accuracy.
Build structural frameworks or cores to provide stability and support during shaping and finishing.
Use tools such as routers, planers, saws, sanders, and CNC machines to shape plugs to exact specifications.
Apply fillers, putty, or resins to achieve a smooth surface, followed by meticulous sanding and polishing.
Fabricate, modify, and repair plugs and tooling components based on design specifications.
Select and prepare appropriate materials, including fiberglass mats, resins, and other composites, for molding processes.
Perform regular maintenance and repair on existing plugs and tools to ensure they remain in optimal condition and function efficiently.
Work closely with engineers, designers, and other production team members to ensure the tooling meets project timelines and specifications.
Maintain symmetry and consistency, implementing templates and guides as needed.
Inspect plugs throughout fabrication to ensure alignment with specifications.
Conduct final quality checks for structural integrity, dimensions, and surface finish.