Rapid Prototyping Engineer
$140k - $170k USD
Swarm Aero is at the forefront of redefining air power, developing the largest swarming UAV and the most versatile swarming aircraft network globally. We are rapidly progressing towards launching the first aircraft designed specifically for swarming, along with the advanced Command & Control software to mobilize swarms of thousands of diverse autonomous assets, enabling human operators to achieve unprecedented results.
Our team boasts experience in building and exiting multiple startups, negotiating defense deals worth billions, and designing and constructing over 30 innovative aircraft. Our expertise spans top aerospace companies such as Scaled Composites, Airbus, Archer Aviation, Blue Origin, and Boom Supersonic.
We are seeking a Rapid Prototyping Engineer to support fast-paced hardware development through hands-on design, fabrication, and iteration. This role sits at the intersection of mechanical design, manufacturing, and experimentation. You will translate early concepts into physical prototypes quickly, test them, break them, improve them, and repeat.
This is an execution-heavy role for someone who enjoys being in the shop as much as at a workstation, and who takes ownership from idea through working hardware.
What You’ll Do
- Rapidly design, build, and iterate physical prototypes to support R&D and product development
- Translate rough concepts, sketches, or requirements into functional hardware
- Operate and collaborate around prototyping tools such as CNC mills/lathes, 3D printers, laser cutters, and manual shop equipment
- Select materials and manufacturing methods appropriate for speed, cost, and performance
- Support testing, validation, and refinement of prototypes based on real-world feedback
- Work closely with design, electrical, and manufacturing engineers to evolve prototypes toward production-ready designs
- Document designs, lessons learned, and iteration outcomes clearly and concisely
Basic Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or equivalent practical experience
- 15+ years of hands-on prototyping, R&D, or advanced manufacturing experience
- Strong mechanical intuition and ability to design parts that can actually be built
- Proficiency with CAD tools (SolidWorks, NX, Fusion, or similar)
- Comfortable working directly with machines, tools, and materials
- Experience moving quickly with incomplete information while maintaining engineering discipline
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience in aerospace, robotics, defense, automotive, or hardware startups
- Familiarity with composites, sheet metal, machined parts, and rapid fabrication techniques
- Exposure to basic electrical integration (sensors, wiring, actuators)
- Experience supporting early-stage product development or experimental programs
What Success Looks Like
- Concepts become physical prototypes in days, not weeks
- Iterations are fast, intentional, and informed by testing
- Designs improve measurably with each build
- Engineering tradeoffs are understood and communicated clearly
- The team trusts you to “make it real” when time matters
Compensation Range:
- $140,000- $170,000 + Equity
Candidates for this position must have the ability to obtain and maintain a DoD Secret security clearance.
As part of our commitment to maintaining a safe and trustworthy work environment, Swarm Aero conducts a thorough screening of prospective employees. Candidates will be subject to a comprehensive background verification process as a prerequisite for employment.
To conform to U.S. Government controlled technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.
To conform to U.S. Government controlled technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.