Prototype Specialist

Sherman Reilly is strengthening its prototype capabilities to accelerate new product development and provide our customers with rapid, innovative solutions. To support this effort, we are looking to add an Engineering Prototype Specialist to our team. The Engineering Prototype Specialist is responsible for the hands-on fabrication, assembly, testing, and refinement of prototype products. This role requires a highly skilled individual who can interpret engineering designs, collaborate with cross-functional teams, and provide valuable feedback to improve product development. The ideal candidate will have strong mechanical, electrical and hydraulic aptitude, excellent problem-solving skills, and experience working in a prototype or R&D environment.

Work Environment

We rely on our team to exercise good judgment, common sense, and strong technical aptitude in making ethical and well-informed decisions.

• We believe in total openness on all issues, that issues are best resolved by direct interaction between people, regardless of different organizations or various levels of responsibility.
• Inspiration can stem from anywhere; we believe in supporting creative thought and an openness to innovative ideas and concepts.
• We work in a fast-paced and ever-changing environment. We depend on and expect our people to be flexible and adapt to this environment.

Responsibilities

Build, assemble, and modify prototype components and systems based on engineering drawings, CAD models, and specifications.

• Collaborate closely with design and manufacturing engineers to provide feedback on manufacturability, functionality, and design improvements.
• Utilize a variety of hand tools, power tools, machining equipment, and testing instruments to create and validate prototypes.
• Perform functional and performance testing of prototypes, documenting findings and suggesting refinements.
• Assist in troubleshooting mechanical, electrical, pneumatic and hydraulic-related issues during prototype development.
• Maintain a clean and organized prototype shop, ensuring proper inventory of materials and tools.
• Support the transition from prototype to production by working with manufacturing teams to refine assembly processes.
• Stay current with emerging fabrication technologies and prototyping techniques.

Work Location and Schedule

• On Site – 400 W. 33rd Street, Chattanooga, Tennessee.
• Monday – Friday; 8:00 – 5:00
• Travel < 5%

Benefits and Compensation

• 401(k) plus matching
• Health, dental, vision, and life insurance
• Employee Assistance Program
• Paid Time Off
• Profit based yearly bonus

Required Education and Skills

• At least 2 years of hands-on experience with fabrication methods, including machining, welding, 3D printing, and sheet metal fabrication techniques such as plasma cutting, bending and shearing
• Must be proficient in GMAW and pass the S R standard weld test
• Proficiency in reading engineering drawings, schematics, and CAD models.
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
• Familiarity with various materials, including metals, plastics, and composites.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced development environment.
• Excellent communication and documentation skills.
• Experience operating a forklift, band saws, shears, plasma table and brake press
• Experience troubleshooting electrical, pneumatic, and hydraulic systems

Physical Requirements

• Lift up to 50lbs.
• Use of hand tools such as wrenches, hammers, impact drivers, drills, and other common tools
• Climb on and off mobile equipment to access mechanical and electrical components
• Able to stand for extended periods of time while wearing appropriate safety gear and wearing steel toed boots
• During prototyping and while assisting the operations team you will be in a factory environment with load noises, dangerous tools and equipment, moving objects, dangerous fumes, and other personal to be mindful of
• During testing you will likely be outdoors and environmentally exposed to natural dangers such as sunburn and inclement weather