Prototype Build Technician in Cambridge

Cambridge Mechatronics Ltd (CML) is a globally recognised fabless semiconductor company headquartered in Cambridge, UK. CML is pioneering Shape Memory Alloy (SMA) actuator systems that deliver breakthrough performance in high-precision, high-volume applications such as smartphones, AR/VR head-mounted devices, and compact medical devices.

With a multi-disciplinary global team spanning materials science, mechanical design, electronics, and software, CML develops complete actuator system solutions—including the SMA actuator, control ICs, and advanced algorithms. CML holds approximately 850 granted and pending patents and ranks among the top 25 UK patent filers, reflecting our strong commitment to innovation and technology leadership.

The Role: We are looking for a highly motivated Prototype Build Technician to join our growing team, supporting the development of CML's next-generation technology. Working alongside the Actuator Design Team and a multidisciplinary engineering team, you will play a vital role in the manufacture, assembly, testing and continuous improvement of prototype devices. This is a hands-on position that combines precision electro-mechanical assembly with laboratory testing, engineering support and prototype manufacturing.

The ideal candidate will have excellent practical engineering skills, enjoy working in a laboratory environment, and take pride in producing high-quality prototype assemblies that support the development of innovative technologies.

• Assemble prototype actuators to a high standard.
• Prepare delicate mechanical samples using precision assembly techniques including gluing, soldering and fine hand assembly.
• Support the manufacture of engineering prototypes through all stages of development.
• Work closely with design engineers to investigate prototype failures and support root cause analysis.
• Assist with engineering evaluations and product development activities.
• Review, update and improve prototype build instructions and assembly documentation.
• Provide practical feedback to engineers to improve product manufacturability and assembly processes.

• Load samples onto laboratory test rigs and perform routine testing in accordance with standard operating procedures.
• Support performance, reliability and environmental testing activities.
• Record, analyse and report test results accurately.
• Assist engineers with troubleshooting and first-line investigation of test failures.

• Inspect precision mechanical components against engineering drawings and specifications.
• Verify component quality and dimensional accuracy before assembly.
• Maintain accurate build records and documentation.

• Monitor prototype stock levels and maintain inventory for development projects.
• Raise requests for replacement components, consumables, tools and workshop equipment.
• Operate and maintain FDM and SLA 3D printers, including slicing, printing and post-processing.
• Maintain an organised, safe and efficient workshop and laboratory environment.

• Experience in electro-mechanical assembly.
• Experience building engineering prototypes from written and verbal instructions.
• Experience of fine soldering, including SMD components.
• General workshop skills including metalworking and use of hand tools.
• Experience inspecting precision mechanical components.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings.
• Good understanding of mechanical assembly techniques.
• Experience supporting engineering investigations and debugging activities.
• Inventory management and routine purchasing experience.
• Competent user of Microsoft Office, particularly Excel and Word.
• Familiarity with viewing and interrogating 3D CAD models, preferably using SolidWorks.
• Excellent attention to detail and ability to carry out repetitive precision work to consistently high standards.
• Precision assembly under a bench microscope using tweezers, scalpels, adhesive dispensers and other fine assembly tools.
• Experience operating laser welding equipment.
• Experience working within an engineering laboratory or product development environment.
• Experience using milling machines and lathes.
• Operation of SLA and FDM 3D printers, including slicing software and post-processing.
• Experience creating or modifying CAD models in SolidWorks.
• Understanding of Design for Manufacture (DFM) principles.
• Experience supporting medical device or highly regulated product development programmes.
• Knowledge of laboratory safety procedures and engineering documentation practices.

• Highly practical with excellent manual dexterity.
• Passionate about building high-quality prototypes and solving engineering problems.
• Methodical, organised and detail-oriented.
• Strong communication skills with the confidence to work closely with engineers across multiple disciplines.
• Adaptable and comfortable working in a fast-paced research and development environment.
• Able to prioritise work across multiple prototype builds and development projects.
• Positive, proactive attitude with a willingness to learn new skills and techniques.
• Self-motivated and capable of working independently while contributing effectively within a collaborative team.

Why Join CML? Be part of a team developing innovative medical technology that has the potential to improve the lives of people living with diabetes. Work alongside world-class engineers across mechanical, electronics, firmware, software and systems disciplines. Gain hands-on experience across the full medical device development lifecycle, from concept through to product validation. Join one of the UK's leading technology innovators, recognised for its extensive patent portfolio and pioneering work in precision actuator technology. Enjoy a collaborative, supportive and technically challenging environment where your contribution will directly influence the success of a next-generation medical device. This role is ideal for a skilled prototype technician who enjoys working at the forefront of product development and takes pride in transforming innovative engineering concepts into functional, high-quality prototypes ready for testing and refinement.