Prototyping Specialist

Skydio•San Mateo, CA

6d•$128,000 - $150,000

About The Position

Skydio’s Hardware Development team supports engineers throughout the Hardware organization by taking on the work needed to keep hardware development moving. The Prototyping Specialist combines design skills with hands-on fabrication to create fixtures, rigs, and test setups. This is a senior member of the team who tackles complex problems, including CNC rework and wiring new test equipment. Projects vary in scope, from quick tasks to custom equipment that may take weeks or months to design and build. The role involves designing and building electromechanical fixtures, test rigs, and enclosures; creating custom 80/20 rigs with electrical components; fabricating parts and assemblies; performing rapid CNC rework; and improving laboratory infrastructure and workspaces. Skydio offers regular, full-time employees competitive base salaries, stock options, and benefits. The stated annual base salary range is $128,000–$150,000. Relocation assistance may be available for eligible roles.

Requirements

At least 5 years of experience designing and fabricating prototype hardware, fixtures, or test equipment.
Strong CAD skills and experience independently programming, setting up, and operating CNC mills.
Proficiency in manual and CNC machining, 3D printing, and wood and metal fabrication tools such as saws, drill presses, grinders, and sanders.
Experience with electromechanical design, including enclosures and fixtures that house circuit boards.
Electrical wiring and troubleshooting experience, including single-phase 220VAC equipment and power conversion.
A track record of moving quickly from an idea to working hardware, often using parts on hand.
Ability to juggle and prioritize tasks that vary widely in scope and scale.

Responsibilities

Design and build electromechanical fixtures, test rigs, and enclosures, moving from CAD to finished hardware.
Build custom 80/20 rigs that may integrate wiring, power distribution, and actuators.
Make parts and assemblies using 3D printing, CNC and manual machining, and wood and metal shop tools.
Perform quick-turn CNC rework to unblock prototype builds, including designing and making fixtures for complex part geometry and machining changes.
Create custom lab and infrastructure improvements, including problem-specific tooling and builds or installations that improve lab efficiency and safety.