Prototype Researcher

orbitalindustries· Direct-to-Chip
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📍 San Francisco, CAFullTime

About this role

Orbital is an AI-first industrial company building hardware from the atoms up. Our goal is to lead an industrial renaissance to advance critical technologies and secure our planet for generations to come.

We’re starting with critical hardware for AI data centers to make them more performant and sustainable. Every Orbital product is invented with our AI platform — uniting AI-automated hardware engineering with AI-designed material science to achieve breakthrough real-world performance.

We have an ambitious mission and need excellent people in all our teams - AI research, operations, advanced materials, mechanical engineering, chemical engineering and manufacturing.

Working at Orbital means working in tightly integrated, vertically integrated teams. We’re looking for people who have a love of physical technology, curiosity in AI and a desire to learn.

Role Overview

You'll be the hands that turn our designs into working hardware — running the workshop, building the test rigs, and getting them commissioned and into service. You'll own the mechanical build of our next-generation Direct-to-Chip platforms from bare frame to first test.

 
 

Key Responsibilities

Workshop and Machine Operation

  • Run and maintain our 3D printers, CNC machine and workshop tooling

  • Digital Fabrication - create and review CAD models. Produce parts, jigs and test fixtures to drawing

  • Manage tooling, consumables and machine servicing

Rig Build and Commissioning

  • Lead the mechanical build of our upcoming Direct-to-Chip testing and validation rigs

  • Support commissioning — leak checks, function testing, fault-finding, and generic troubleshooting

  • Deliver mechanical and electrical modifications to existing rigs as needed

Mechanical and Electrical Assembly

  • Comfort with low voltage wiring - build control panels and instrumentation to schematic

  • High degree of mechanical aptitude - Assemble mechanical sub-systems to specification and tolerance

  • Function test completed builds and document the results

Rig Operation and Procurement

  • Take over day-to-day mechanical operation of test rigs

  • Set up, run and reset test configurations for each campaign. Review data and recommend iterative improvements

  • Source and order rig components, managing suppliers and lead times

 
 

What We’re Looking For

  • Hands-on experience running 3D printers, CNC machines and workshop tooling

  • Comfortable across both mechanical assembly and electrical build work

  • A background in prototype, R&D or low-volume build environments

  • Practical problem-solver who diagnoses and fixes rather than waits

  • Experience with fluid systems or test instrumentation is a strong plus

Why Join Orbital?

  • Competitive salary and equity package - the ability to own part of Orbital as we grow

  • Flexible and generous paid time off

  • Excellent health, dental and vision insurance plan

  • Regular company offsites

  • The experience of working in a cutting-edge organisation dedicated to a better future

Orbital is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the salary disclosed for the Prototype Researcher position at orbitalindustries?
The salary for this Prototype Researcher role at orbitalindustries is not publicly listed. Click "Apply Now" to learn more about the compensation package on their official careers page.
Where is the Prototype Researcher position at orbitalindustries located?
This Prototype Researcher role at orbitalindustries is based in San Francisco, CA. The position is listed as on-site or hybrid. Check the full job description or apply directly to confirm the work arrangement.
Is the Prototype Researcher role at orbitalindustries full-time or part-time?
This is listed as a FullTime position. It is posted as a Prototype Researcher role in the Direct-to-Chip department at orbitalindustries.
Which team or department does the Prototype Researcher at orbitalindustries belong to?
This Prototype Researcher position is part of the Direct-to-Chip department at orbitalindustries. See the full job description for more information about the team structure and responsibilities.
How do I apply for the Prototype Researcher position at orbitalindustries?
Click the "Apply Now" button on this page. You will be redirected to orbitalindustries's official application portal hosted on ashby where you can submit your application directly.
When was the Prototype Researcher job at orbitalindustries posted?
This Prototype Researcher position at orbitalindustries was posted on Aug 11, 2026. Apply as soon as possible — early applications are often reviewed first.
Prototype Researcher
orbitalindustries
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You'll be redirected to orbitalindustries's official application page on Ashby ATS.