Prototype Engineer

About the Role

At Observable Space, we are redefining how humanity observes and connects with the universe. We are a vertically integrated, high-growth space technology company building industry-leading precision optics platforms for Earth and in space. Our systems are trusted by NASA, JPL, SpaceX, Boeing, Raytheon, and the US DoD, among others, and power the work of leading research institutions.

We combine precision opto-mechanical hardware, embedded computing, cloud orchestration, and developer-friendly APIs into world-class products. From advanced ground stations, on-orbit sensor suites, and free-space optical lasercom to distributed compute platforms, we deliver the foundational systems enabling continuous, real-time navigation, observation, and communication in space.

Observable Space is backed by top-tier institutional investors including Lux, Upfront Ventures, RTX Ventures, Detroit Venture Partners, and Embedded Ventures.

This Prototype Engineer role is based at our Los Angeles-based state-of-the-art prototyping facility. We are building one of the world's most challenging materials machining environments, working with glass, titanium, and exotic wire EDM'd parts. This position is not a standard machine shop role; it is a critical function that sits at the intersection of engineering design and hands-on fabrication, driving rapid iteration for hardware bound for space and high-performance systems.

What You'll Do

You will operate a diverse set of fabrication tools to support rapid prototyping of demanding mechanical components. This role owns the hands-on execution of part fabrication from SolidWorks models and technical prints. You will sit with engineering daily to evaluate and push back on unmanufacturable designs in real time. The position requires adaptability because schedules are flexible yet on-call when urgent parts are needed day or night. You will help design novel machining processes that scale into future production at the Michigan facility. You will prepare CAM programs and develop custom fixturing to accelerate iteration cycles. This role directly impacts how quickly hardware prototypes move from concept to test-ready systems.

• Operate a wide range of fabrication tools including 3D printers, 5-axis CNC mills and lathes, tube and flat-bed lasers, waterjets, wire EDM, and high-precision manual tools.
• Participate in engineering design reviews to evaluate manufacturability and provide practical feedback on part geometry.
• Collaborate closely with engineering teams to iterate on part designs in real time while balancing technical constraints and schedule needs.
• Help design novel machining processes and methodologies intended for deployment in our Michigan production facility.
• Work from SolidWorks models and technical drawings to produce high-tolerance parts that meet strict specifications.
• Prepare CAM programs in Mastercam, Fusion 360, or similar tools with attention to efficient toolpaths and setup planning.
• Help develop custom fixturing, jigs, and one-off assemblies that enable rapid prototyping and accurate alignment.
• Assist in maintaining, upgrading, and tuning machines and shop infrastructure to sustain consistent performance.
• Participate in design for manufacturability (DFM) reviews and provide direct feedback to engineers to refine designs.
• Occasionally assist with integration or test setups when needed to support broader project timelines.

Requirements

• 5+ years of hands-on experience in an engineering prototyping shop or machine shop environment.
• Working knowledge of SolidWorks (or similar CAD tools) for creating and modifying models and assemblies.
• Significant experience with CAM software such as Mastercam or Fusion CAM for generating toolpaths and setup strategies.
• Proficient with modern CNC machine operations and part inspection using appropriate metrology tools.
• Ability to interpret and execute mechanical drawings and GD&T to ensure parts meet design intent.
• Familiarity with common materials such as aluminum, titanium, stainless steel, plastics, and their machining characteristics.
• Comfortable with occasional non-standard hours, including occasional late-night or weekend requests to address urgent needs.
• Must be a U.S. Person as clearance is not required but employment eligibility demands it.

Bonus Qualifications

• Experience with light duty fabrication including TIG welding, laser cell operation, slip rolling, fixturing and fit-up.
• Experience designing test fixturing and metrology to support measurement and verification activities.
• Willing to shoot paint and operate an HVLP booth, focusing on coverage rather than finish quality.
• Deep knowledge of multi-axis milling, fixturing, and workholding strategies for complex geometries.
• Experience building parts for aerospace, robotics, or optics applications where precision and reliability are critical.
• Familiarity with vacuum-compatible fabrication techniques and materials.

What We Offer

• Build out a team of R&D specialists.
• High-trust, flexible scheduling with an on-call component for urgent production needs.
• Direct impact on rapid iteration of hardware bound for space, field ops, or high-performance systems.
• A culture that respects craftsmanship, iteration speed, and creative autonomy within a high-growth space technology environment.