Product Development & Assembly Lead

About Us

We are a stealth-stage mechanical hardware startup manufacturing high-security physical goods and vehicle accessories. Having successfully pre-sold our initial pilot production run, we are transitioning from R&D into active domestic contracting manufacturing and assembly at our facility on the West Side of Chicago.

The Role & Growth Track

We are seeking a proactive, highly organized individual to bridge the gap between product development and active manufacturing. You will start by working side-by-side with the Co-Founder to physically establish our assembly workspace, optimize workflow, and build the first 100+ units.

This is a "leader-worker" hybrid role designed for a talented junior-to-mid-level operator. As our production volume scales, this role has a direct pathway to transition into a full-time position managing our entire assembly, prototyping, and manufacturing operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Workstation Setup & 5S Implementation: Help design and arrange our physical shop space. You will apply 5S methodologies (Sort, Set in Order, Shine, Standardize, Sustain) to organize workstations, optimize layout, and ensure maximum tool and workflow efficiency.
• Pilot Assembly Execution: Physically assemble initial product runs and factory samples using hand tools, riveting equipment, and small shop machinery.
• Prototyping & Light Fabrication: Utilize our internal shop tools and our partner prototyping lab to iterate, test, and build prototypes for upcoming parts, components, and new accessory lines. This includes working with light fabrication equipment (e.g., press brakes, shop presses, and digital cutting tools).
• Midwest Supplier QA & Debugging: Partner with our local Chicago-area contract manufacturer to inspect incoming components. You will assist with on-site quality assurance, sample verification, and active root-cause troubleshooting during pilot runs to resolve fabrication defects.
• Root-Cause Diagnostics: When a component, tool, or process misbehaves, you do not simply report the issue. You investigate the mechanical or structural root cause, consult technical manuals, and present actionable solutions.
• Inventory Control & Version Tracking: Maintain a system for tracking incoming factory parts, components, and hardware as in input to logistics.

Qualifications & Mindset

• Workspace Discipline (5S Mindset): You have a natural obsession with physical organization. You take pride in maintaining an orderly shop floor where tools are meticulously maintained and returned to their designated places.
• Hands-on Technical Competence: Experienced with mechanical assembly and hand/power tools. Fearless about reading manuals to master new equipment, pneumatic systems, or shop machinery safely and independently.
• Technical Software Literacy: Basic familiarity or comfort with 3D CAD environments (such as Fusion 360) and vector file handling (DXF/SVG) for fabrication purposes is highly preferred.
• Assembly Orientation: You value structured problem-solving, data tracking, and standard operating procedures to create standardized repeatable processes.
• Execution & Communication: Exceptional communication skills and strict attention to detail. You follow written technical specifications precisely and can create checklists and specs yourself.
• Schedule & Location: Ability to work on-site on the West Side of Chicago. Must be available for weekday blocks. Sunday blocks also available.

Pay: $30.00 - $35.00 per hour

Willingness to travel:

• 25% (Preferred)

Work Location: In person