Description
Builds and refines wooden prototypes, mock-ups, patterns, and fixtures for new products, partnering with designers and engineers to translate concepts into accurate, testable components and production-ready tooling.
- • Verify prototype dimensions, contours, and fit using templates, calipers, and gauges throughout fabrication.
- • Interpret CAD drawings, blueprints, and written specs; collaborate with designers to define sizes, tolerances, and setups.
- • Set up, operate, and adjust woodworking machines (table saws, bandsaws, planers, routers, sanders) to cut and shape parts to spec.
- • Assemble wooden prototypes and fixtures using appropriate joinery, adhesives, and mechanical fasteners.
- • Trim, smooth, and shape surfaces; plane, shave, file, scrape, and sand to achieve required geometry and finish.
- • Select wood stock and complementary materials; determine layouts and mark cut lines using precision layout tools.
- • Construct prototypes, templates, full-scale mock-ups, molds, and tooling aids for new product development.
- • Mark parts, templates, and assemblies with identifiers, revision levels, and assembly instructions.
- • Plan, lay out, and draw outlines of units and sectional patterns; create cut lists and build sequences.
- • Fabricate custom jigs, fixtures, scrapers, and templates to support repeatable builds and testing.
- • Maintain prototype and pattern records, drawings, and measurements for reference and traceability.
- • Design and build assembly guides and jigs for complex, oversized, or specialty prototypes.
- • Release templates, patterns, and build documentation to shop personnel or outside vendors as needed.
- • Apply protective or presentation finishes such as sealers, lacquer, shellac, or wax to prototypes and models.
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Last reviewed: Jan 2026
