Aerospace Prototyping Technician

Job Summary

The Aerospace Prototyping Technician, in collaboration with faculty and students, will provide the machining and fabrication expertise and skill necessary to produce unique prototype research equipment. In this position, the technicians work fairly independently and create complex parts in support of interesting and important research. The Technicians rarely make more than one part of the same type. With knowledge of current technologies, assist in the design of research equipment to improve manufacturability and to minimize production costs. Provide in-house production of machined and fabricated research equipment.

This position offers a chance to make a meaningful impact at a prestigious institution known for innovation and research excellence. Join our community of lifelong learners and contribute your skills to this critical program. At Purdue, you'll find unrivaled pride and unlimited potential as we persistently pursue the next giant leap together. Take the next step in your career journey - apply now to help build a better world at Purdue University.

What You'll Be Doing:

Prototype Production:

Utilizing conventional and CNC lathes, mills, and other shop equipment, along with MIG and TIG welding equipment, produce components and assemblies of research devices from various aerospace materials.

Modify existing research equipment as needed to meet the objectives of the experiments.

Perform routine maintenance on shop equipment as required and procure and maintain shop tooling to maximize productivity.

Maintain files for machinery operation and maintenance manuals.

Prototype Design Support:

Work with the faculty and students in the design of prototype experimental equipment.

Recommend manufacturing techniques and in-house vs. vendor fabrication based on requirements, cost, and schedule.

Laboratory Support:

Assist with the installation of research equipment.

Research equipment may contain high pressure fluid systems and mechanical systems.

Maintain and operate shared systems such as the air compressors and forklift.

Manage inventory of consumable materials.

About Us:

Purdue’s Aeronautical and Astronautical Engineering graduate program is ranked #5 nationally in the 2025 U.S. News & World Report rankings, emphasizing core areas like aerodynamics, propulsion, structures, dynamics, and control, with hands-on design projects that integrate these disciplines. Graduates are highly sought after by leading aerospace employers, prepared for impactful careers in aviation, defense, and space exploration. Find more information here:

What We're Looking For:

Education and Experience

Qualified candidates will need:

An associate’s degree (two-year degree) in the tool and die trade

Two (2) years of experience in the design and fabrication of parts and assemblies with knowledge of current fabrication and machining technologies

Equivalent combinations of education and experience, including vocational education in the tool and die trade, will be considered

Skills needed:

Knowledge of and skill in programming and operation of conventional and CNC lathes and mills for work with various materials including stainless steels, nickel alloys, and aluminum

Knowledge of current machining and fabricating technologies

Ability to estimate machining and fabricating costs

Must have good interpersonal skills with the ability to work with and instruct people of various cultural backgrounds

Good verbal and written communication, time management, and organizational skills with a positive creative attitude

Attentive to details and excel in quality inspection

Must be capable of meeting goals and deadlines while working on multiple projects

Must maintain familiarity with current machining and fabricating technologies and the capabilities of the various shops within Purdue and the surrounding community

Must be able to recommend machining and fabrication processes based on the application, cost, and schedule

Skilled in tight tolerance precision machining

Nice to have:

Experience working with engineers and external suppliers in optimizing designs to meet intended performance while minimizing costs

Experience planning and executing the assembly of complex mechanical devices and systems

Experience working with and willingness to train inexperienced engineers (students)

Who We Are:

Purdue is a community built on collaboration, with global perspectives, Boilermaker pride and endless opportunity to live, learn and grow. Join us and contribute to our culture.

Additional Information:

Purdue’s benefits summary

Purdue will not sponsor employment authorization for this position

A background check will be required for employment in this position

This was formerly classified as an operational/technical position; an internal lateral transfer will retain same benefit standing

FLSA: Non-Exempt (Eligible For Overtime)

Retirement Eligibility: Non-exempt Defined Contribution Plan

Purdue University is an EO/EA University

Career Stream

Compensation Information:

Administrative and Operational Support 4

Pay Band S065

Job Code#20003969

Link to Purdue University's Compensation Guidelines:

FLSA Status

Non-Exempt