R&D Operations & Prototyping Associate

Attribute

• Location: UAE (Sharjah / Dubai Industrial Hubs)
• Reports To: R&D Manager
• Role Type: Fresh Graduate / Junior Professional

Role Objective

The R&D Operations & Prototyping Associate is the operational engine of the design department. This role exists to eliminate all friction between a digital design and a physical prototype. You will be responsible for the end-to-end physical execution of projects, encompassing both the high-speed procurement of components from the UAE industrial landscape and the precision assembly of prototype systems.

Core Responsibilities

• Industrial Sourcing & Logistics
• Industrial circuit: Daily navigation of Sharjah, Al Quoz, and Ras Al Khor industrial areas to initiate fabrication jobs and collect materials.
• Rapid procurement: Identify, vet, and manage suppliers for CNC machining, sheet metal, acrylics, and 3D printing.
• Extreme expediting: Relentlessly follow up with vendors to ensure "Next-Day" or 48-hour turnarounds for urgent R&D releases.
• Component acquisition: Physically source and pick up off-the-shelf electronics, hardware, pumps, and tubing to ensure the lab is always stocked.
• Assembly & Technical Execution
• Rapid Prototyping: Take raw components and CAD drawings from the Lead Designer and perform full mechanical assembly.
• Systems Integration: Install fluid-handling systems (pumps/tubing) and electronic hardware with high precision.
• Electronics Support: Solder, crimp, and wire PCBs; perform basic continuity and power-on tests to verify the designer’s intent.
• Iteration & Maintenance: Rapidly modify, dismantle, and re-build prototype rigs as designs evolve; maintain a "production-ready" workshop environment.

Candidate Profile

Education & Logistics

• Education: Recent Graduate (or final year) in Mechanical, Mechatronics, or Industrial Engineering.
• Logistics: Valid UAE Driving License

Technical Skills

• Expert-level use of hand/power tools and soldering equipment.
• Ability to interpret 2D/3D technical drawings and basic PCB layouts.
• Highly organized with BOMs and part tracking.

Mindset

• "Zero-Delay" Mentality: You view a supplier delay as a personal hurdle to overcome.
• Execution-Focused: You prefer the workshop and the road over the office desk.
• Highly Responsive: Clear and immediate communication via WhatsApp/Phone for real-time updates.
• Always Curious: Constantly questioning the way things are built and done, with an intent to consistently improve and enhance.
• Problem-solving: You’re addicted to playing puzzles, or visiting escape rooms. You like to be challenged with complex problems.

Interested candidates should submit their resume and a brief statement of purpose to Aadam Zaidi by Mar 13, 2026 12:00 AM.