Hybrid Rapid Prototype Engineer II

at Knowmadics

• Job title: Rapid Prototype Engineer II
• Job type: Full Time
• Experience level: Mid level, Senior
• Salary: Not specified
• Degree requirement: Bachelor's Degree
• Location requirements: Hybrid, Wichita, United States

About the role

• Rapid Prototype Engineer II designing and validating mechanical and electrical prototypes for research and development. Collaborates with cross-functional engineering teams and manages vendor relationships.

Responsibilities

• Design, fabricate, and modify prototype components using variety of tools (e.g., 3D printers, CNC machines, laser cutters, and hand tools).
• Evaluate designs and select appropriate materials, fabrication methods, and finishing processes (e.g., anodizing, painting, coating, polishing).
• Build and assemble mechanical and electro-mechanical systems, including structural, enclosure, and mounting solutions.
• Design and fabricate wiring harnesses and cables, including cutting, crimping, soldering, labeling, and routing for prototype systems.
• Integrate electrical components, connectors, and subsystems, ensuring reliable and serviceable wiring practices.
• Coordinate with third-party vendors for outsourced manufacturing (e.g., machining, PCB fabrication, cable assemblies, finishing services).
• Manage vendor relationships, including sourcing, quoting, scheduling, and quality verification of delivered parts.
• Perform functional testing and quality assurance on prototypes to validate performance, reliability, and design intent.
• Troubleshoot mechanical and electrical issues, and iterate on designs based on test results and team feedback.
• Support system integration efforts across mechanical, electrical, and embedded subsystems.
• Document build processes, wiring diagrams, bill of materials (BOMs), and vendor selections.
• Source tools, materials, and equipment required to support prototyping and fabrication efforts.
• Package and ship prototypes to internal teams and partners, ensuring proper handling, protection, and documentation.
• Maintain a safe, clean, and organized prototyping and production environment.
• Collaborate with cross-functional engineering teams to support rapid development cycles.
• Complete other duties as requested.

Requirements

• Eligible to obtain a U.S. Security Clearance – U.S. Citizenship required.
• Formal education in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related field, or a suitable mix of education and hands-on experience.
• Professional experience working in prototyping labs, machine shops, or makerspace environments.
• Hands-on experience with fabrication tools and processes (e.g., 3D printing, CNC machining, laser cutting, manual fabrication).
• Experience building and assembling mechanical and electro-mechanical systems.
• Experience designing and fabricating wiring harnesses and cables, including crimping, soldering, connector selection, and cable management.
• Strong understanding of materials (plastics, metals, composites) and finishing processes.
• Experience coordinating with external vendors and managing outsourced manufacturing.
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings, CAD models, schematics, and wiring diagrams.
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills across mechanical and electrical systems.
• Ability to manage multiple prototype efforts in parallel in fast-paced environments.
• Strong communication skills for collaboration with cross-functional teams.

Benefits

• Employees may be called upon to participate in in-person meetings, trainings, or company functions at Knowmadics offices or other designated locations.
• Travel in support of business operations may also be required, and employees are expected to comply with these obligations as part of their position.