R&D Operations Engineer

Last Energy is seeking a highly skilled and motivated R&D Operations Engineer to lead our rapid prototyping and internal manufacturing capabilities. This is a critical, hands-on role that requires a robust blend of mechanical engineering principles, advanced machining expertise, and manufacturing operations leadership. The Engineer will be responsible for accelerating the development and iteration of our groundbreaking projects by owning the full lifecycle of prototype development, from CAD / CAM to final fabrication and assembly, within our fast-paced R&D environment.

Key Duties & Responsibilities

• Lead the planning, execution, and continuous improvement of rapid prototyping and R&D manufacturing operations, ensuring timely delivery of high-quality, high-precision components.
• Develop, program, and optimize complex parts using CAD / CAM software (e.g., Mastercam, Fusion 360) and G-code for a wide array of precision machinery, including multi-axis CNC mills and lathes.
• Design and fabricate mechanical components, fixtures, and tooling, applying robust principles of Mechanical Engineering, Design for Manufacturing (DFM), and Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T).
• Specify, procure, and manage the maintenance, calibration, and operational readiness of all shop equipment, including CNC machines, manual lathes, welders, laser cutters, and metrology instruments.
• Collaborate closely with R&D and Engineering teams to transition component designs from concept to manufacturable prototypes, providing expert guidance on material selection, fabrication methods, and process refinement.
• Establish and enforce rigorous safety protocols, quality control standards, and shop best practices to maintain a clean, organized, and safe world-class R&D manufacturing environment.
• Perform troubleshooting and root cause analysis for manufacturing process deviations or equipment issues, implementing effective, long-term solutions.

Qualifications