3D Data & Prototyping Engineer​ (Student/Junior)

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: 3D Data & Prototyping Engineer (Student/Junior)

Company: Verne

Location: Buzin, City of Zagreb, Croatia

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: Engineering Operations / Prototyping & Data Management

Date Posted: 2026-09-01

Experience Level: Student/Junior (0-2 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Responsible for the meticulous organization and maintenance of 3D engineering data, ensuring accuracy, findability, and traceability within a fast-paced startup environment.

• Drive the rapid prototyping workflow by preparing parts, operating 3D printing equipment, and supporting the creation of physical models, fixtures, and vehicle prototypes.

• Uphold stringent data protection protocols and access control for confidential engineering information, crucial for intellectual property management.

• Contribute actively to hands-on problem-solving, process improvement, and the efficient transfer of prototypes towards production readiness.

• Foster a culture of curiosity, ownership, and cross-functional collaboration, actively participating in team consultations and reporting on relevant topics.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned for early-career professionals or students seeking practical experience in a cutting-edge field. The emphasis on "3D Data & Prototyping" within an autonomous vehicle startup suggests a strong need for meticulous data management alongside hands-on engineering skills, bridging the gap between digital design and physical product realization. The "Student/Junior" designation implies a significant learning curve and a focus on foundational skills development.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Maintain and organize 3D CAD files, part numbers, revisions, and prototype records to ensure data integrity and accessibility.

• Conduct thorough checks on naming conventions, metadata, file links, and basic release-package completeness for all engineering data.

• Prepare and operate 3D printing and rapid prototyping equipment, adhering to safety guidelines and operational best practices.

• Create simple CAD parts, fixtures, mock-ups, and print-ready files to support prototyping needs.

• Track prototype parts, materials, consumables, and workshop requests, ensuring efficient resource management.

• Document build results meticulously and maintain the orderliness and safety of shared workspaces.

• Support prototype and vehicle build events, contributing to the physical assembly and testing phases.

• Assist with scans, measurements, photography, and test data collection for engineering analysis.

• Research and evaluate new materials, printers, suppliers, and fabrication methods to enhance prototyping capabilities.

• Maintain workshop equipment and actively contribute to improving workshop safety and organization protocols.

• Present improvement ideas or prototype learnings to the engineering team, fostering a culture of continuous improvement.

• Source external suppliers for necessary parts and materials, managing procurement processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities clearly outline a dual focus on data governance and practical execution. The "Regular tasks" section details the core daily activities, while "Occasional tasks" and "Decision-making authorities" highlight opportunities for expanded scope and initiative. Sourcing external suppliers, while listed under "Managerial authorities," is likely a guided activity for a junior role, focusing on learning procurement processes.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Student status or recent graduate in a relevant engineering or technical field (e.g., Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Design, Mechatronics, or related disciplines). University or maker-project experience preferred.

Experience: 0-2 years of experience, with demonstrated personal, university, or maker-project experience in 3D data management and prototyping.

Required Skills:

• Proficient knowledge of various CAD Software (e.g., SolidWorks, Fusion 360, CATIA, Onshape – specific software experience may vary).

• Strong organizational skills with exceptional attention to detail for data management and record-keeping.

• Demonstrated interest and understanding of 3D printing technologies and their applications.

• Hands-on mindset with a proactive approach to problem-solving and practical tasks.

• Willingness to learn and adapt quickly to new technologies, processes, and project requirements.

• Reliable communication skills, with an aptitude for applying AI-driven tools to enhance workflow efficiency.

• Understanding of workshop safety protocols and best practices. Preferred Skills:

• Experience with rapid prototyping equipment beyond standard 3D printers.

• Familiarity with PDM/PLM systems for engineering data management.

• Basic understanding of materials science relevant to prototyping.

• Experience with basic CAD part creation and modification.

• Ability to document technical processes and results clearly.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "Student/Junior" and "demonstrated personal, university or maker-project experience" indicates that formal work experience is not the primary requirement. Candidates are encouraged to showcase any relevant project work, academic achievements, or personal initiatives that highlight their skills in CAD, 3D printing, and data organization.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Examples of meticulously organized 3D CAD data, demonstrating file management, version control, and metadata application.

• Case studies of successful prototyping projects, showcasing the process from design intent to physical output, including any challenges encountered and resolved.

• Documentation of specific 3D printing or rapid prototyping projects, highlighting material choices, print settings, and post-processing steps.

• Evidence of creating simple CAD parts, fixtures, or print-ready files for prototyping purposes.

• Records of process improvements or workflow optimizations implemented in academic or personal projects related to data management or prototyping. Process Documentation:

• Demonstrations of clear and concise technical documentation, such as build reports, material tracking logs, or workshop procedure outlines.

• Examples of structured data organization, illustrating how complex datasets were managed for accessibility and retrieval.

• Visual representations of workflow diagrams or process maps related to prototyping or data handling.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a student/junior role, the "portfolio" may be less formal and could include well-documented university projects, personal 3D printing projects, or contributions to open-source hardware initiatives. The focus should be on demonstrating practical application of skills and a methodical approach to data and fabrication.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on regional standards for junior/student engineering roles in Croatia and considering the cost of living in Zagreb, a competitive hourly rate or monthly stipend is anticipated. For a full-time student/junior engineer with potential for growth, a range of €800 - €1,300 gross per month is a reasonable estimate. This range is subject to the candidate's specific qualifications, academic progress, and the company's compensation structure.

Benefits:

• Opportunity to collaborate with experts from over 20 diverse industries, fostering cross-disciplinary learning.

• Project ownership and the autonomy to innovate and take initiative, encouraging personal and professional development.

• A transparent work culture that values feedback and open communication, promoting a supportive team environment.

• Comprehensive financial support and wellbeing programs designed to cater to diverse employee needs.

• The dynamic and exciting environment of a fast-growing startup, where contributions are highly valued and impactful.

Working Hours: Standard full-time hours are expected, likely around 40 hours per week. While the role is on-site, there may be some flexibility in scheduling around academic commitments for student candidates, subject to team and project needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary estimation is based on general Croatian junior engineering/student intern compensation benchmarks and the specified location. The benefits listed are directly from the job description, highlighting Verne's commitment to employee growth and well-being. The working hours are inferred from the "FULL_TIME" employment type.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Autonomous Mobility / Automotive Technology / Advanced Engineering. Verne is at the forefront of developing an ecosystem for autonomous journeys, integrating vehicle design, infrastructure, and digital experiences. This places them within a high-growth, innovation-driven sector.

Company Size: As a growing startup, Verne likely operates with a lean, agile team structure. This typically means more direct interaction with senior leadership and greater individual impact, but also a demanding and fast-paced work environment.

Founded: Named in honor of Jules Verne, the company is positioned as an innovator and future-builder. While the exact founding date isn't provided, its "growing startup" status implies a relatively recent establishment, likely within the last 5-10 years, focusing on disruptive technology.

Team Structure:

• The operations team, including this role, is likely integrated within a broader engineering department, focusing on specific aspects of product development.

• Reporting structure will be direct, likely to a Lead Prototyping Engineer, Engineering Manager, or a Senior Engineer responsible for data and fabrication.

• Cross-functional collaboration is essential, involving close work with design engineers, mechanical engineers, and potentially software developers to translate digital designs into physical prototypes. Methodology:

• Data Analysis: Emphasis on maintaining accurate and traceable 3D engineering data, crucial for downstream design and manufacturing processes.

• Workflow Planning: Designing and optimizing workflows for data management and rapid prototyping to ensure efficiency and speed.

• Automation: Leveraging AI and other tools to improve workflow efficiency, as mentioned in the "Willingness to learn" section.

Company Website: https://careers.letsverne.com

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's mission to build an "ecosystem to progress our society through a journey of curiosity and innovation" and its connection to Jules Verne suggest a culture that values forward-thinking, exploration, and practical application of advanced technologies. The startup environment implies a high degree of collaboration and a need for individuals who can adapt and contribute across various tasks.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is at the entry-level, designated as "Student/Junior." It's an excellent opportunity for individuals to gain foundational experience in a high-tech engineering environment. The responsibilities focus on execution and learning, with limited strategic decision-making.

Reporting Structure: The candidate will report directly to a more senior engineer or a team lead within the engineering or prototyping department. This provides a clear line of mentorship and guidance.

Operations Impact: While not directly involved in strategic revenue generation, this role plays a critical role in the product development lifecycle. By ensuring accurate data and efficient prototyping, the engineer directly supports the speed and quality of innovation, which is vital for a startup aiming to disrupt the market. Their work enables faster iteration and validation of designs, indirectly contributing to market competitiveness and product-market fit.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific CAD software, advanced 3D printing techniques (e.g., SLA, SLS, FDM), material science, and engineering data management best practices.

• Technical Advancement: Progress to roles such as Senior Prototyping Engineer, CAD Designer, or Data Manager, taking on more complex projects and greater responsibilities.

• Leadership Potential: Develop skills in mentoring junior team members, leading small projects, or contributing to process improvement initiatives within the operations team.

• Cross-functional Exposure: Gain exposure to other engineering disciplines within Verne, potentially leading to roles in design, manufacturing engineering, or R&D.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth path for this role is clearly defined by building upon foundational skills. The startup environment often offers accelerated learning and opportunities to take on more responsibility sooner than in larger, more established organizations.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is explicitly stated as "On-site," indicating a physical workspace within Verne's facilities in Buzin, Zagreb. This environment is likely a blend of office space for data management and collaboration, and a dedicated workshop or lab area for prototyping and equipment operation.

Office Location(s): Ul. Buzinski krči 3B, Buzin, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia. Buzin is an industrial/business zone on the southern edge of Zagreb, often characterized by modern office buildings and industrial parks.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: Expect a dynamic workspace where interaction with experienced engineers and team members is frequent and encouraged for problem-solving and decision-making.

• Operations Tools & Technology: Access to industry-standard CAD software, 3D printers, rapid prototyping equipment, and digital tools for data organization and communication.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities for consultations, decision-making discussions, and sharing progress, risks, and trade-offs with the team and management.

Work Schedule: A standard full-time schedule is expected. For student candidates, there may be some flexibility to accommodate academic requirements, but the core expectation is consistent on-site presence for hands-on work and team collaboration.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement emphasizes the hands-on nature of the role, requiring direct interaction with equipment and physical materials. The location in Buzin suggests a modern business park setting, typical for tech companies in urban outskirts.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial HR Interview: Focuses on assessing cultural fit, understanding motivation, and aligning expectations with the role's requirements and Verne's values. Be prepared to discuss your interest in autonomous mobility and startups.

• Technical Interview with the Team: This will involve discussions about your CAD skills, understanding of 3D printing, data organization methods, and problem-solving approaches. Expect technical questions related to the responsibilities outlined.

• Final Interview with C-level: A more strategic conversation, likely assessing your long-term potential, understanding of the company's vision, and your ability to contribute to Verne's growth.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Select Projects: Choose 2-3 projects that best showcase your CAD proficiency, 3D printing experience, and data organization skills.

• Document Clearly: For each project, detail the objective, your role, the tools/software used, the process followed, the outcome, and any lessons learned. Use screenshots of CAD models, photos of prototypes, and examples of data organization.

• Highlight Problem-Solving: Emphasize how you overcame challenges in your projects, demonstrating your hands-on, curious, and reliable approach.

• Showcase Data Management: If possible, include examples of how you organized files, managed revisions, or applied metadata.

• Prepare a Walkthrough: Be ready to present your portfolio and walk the interviewers through your projects, explaining your contributions and skills.

Challenge Preparation:

• Problem-Solving Scenarios: Be prepared for hypothetical scenarios related to data errors, prototyping issues, or equipment malfunctions. Think about how you would approach diagnosing and resolving these problems using your skills and available resources.

• CAD/Prototyping Task: There might be a small, practical task involving basic CAD work or explaining a prototyping process.

• Data Organization Exercise: You might be asked to describe how you would organize a set of files or manage project data.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is structured to assess both technical aptitude and cultural alignment. A well-prepared portfolio that directly addresses the job requirements will be crucial for demonstrating readiness for this hands-on role.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD Software: Proficiency in at least one major CAD package is essential (e.g., SolidWorks, Fusion 360, CATIA, Onshape). The specific software used by Verne will be a key focus.

• 3D Printing Equipment: Hands-on experience operating various types of 3D printers (FDM, SLA, SLS, etc.) and understanding their operational parameters.

• Prototyping Tools: Familiarity with basic workshop tools and equipment used in fabricating physical models, fixtures, and mock-ups.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Organization Tools: Experience with file management systems, potentially PDM/PLM software, or cloud-based storage solutions for organizing large datasets.

• Documentation Tools: Proficiency in creating technical reports, build logs, and process documentation using standard office software.

CRM & Automation:

• AI Tools: Mentioned as a way to improve workflow, indicating an openness to leveraging AI for efficiency.

• Project Management Software: Likely used for tracking tasks, prototype requests, and team progress (e.g., Jira, Asana, Trello - specific tools not mentioned).

📝 Enhancement Note: The core technical requirements revolve around CAD and 3D printing. The mention of AI for workflow improvement suggests a forward-thinking approach, and candidates should be open to learning and applying such technologies.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Curiosity & Innovation: A strong drive to explore new ideas, technologies, and methods, essential for a company building future mobility solutions.

• Hands-on Problem Solving: A practical, results-oriented approach to tackling challenges, directly engaging with technical issues.

• Reliability & Ownership: Taking responsibility for assigned tasks, ensuring data accuracy, and delivering prototypes on time and to specification.

• Cross-Functional Teamwork: Valuing collaboration and open communication with colleagues across different engineering disciplines and departments.

• Efficiency & Continuous Improvement: A commitment to optimizing workflows, learning new techniques, and enhancing processes for better outcomes.

Collaboration Style:

• Direct & Open: Expect straightforward communication, with an emphasis on sharing progress, identifying risks, and making decisions collectively.

• Mentorship-Driven: In a junior role, collaboration will involve close guidance and learning from experienced engineers.

• Agile & Iterative: The startup environment fosters quick feedback loops and iterative development, requiring adaptable and responsive collaboration.

📝 Enhancement Note: Verne's culture appears to be a blend of ambitious innovation and practical execution, typical of successful tech startups. The emphasis on curiosity and hands-on problem-solving suggests a dynamic and engaging work environment.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Data Integrity at Scale: Maintaining accuracy and traceability for a rapidly growing volume of complex 3D engineering data in a startup environment.

• Prototyping Constraints: Balancing speed, cost, and quality requirements for prototypes with limited resources or evolving designs.

• Technology Adoption: Staying current with rapidly advancing 3D printing technologies, materials, and CAD software while integrating them into existing workflows.

• Cross-Functional Communication: Effectively translating design intent into physical prototypes and communicating technical details across different engineering teams.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Specialized Training: Opportunities to gain certifications or advanced training in specific CAD software, 3D printing technologies, or data management systems.

• Industry Exposure: Working with experts from diverse fields within Verne, providing insights into various aspects of autonomous mobility development.

• Mentorship: Direct guidance from experienced engineers, accelerating learning and skill development in a practical setting.

• Project Ownership: Taking on increasing responsibility for projects, building a portfolio of successful contributions and demonstrating leadership potential.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are inherent to working in a fast-paced, technology-driven startup. These challenges also present significant opportunities for learning and professional growth, particularly for individuals eager to expand their skill set in cutting-edge fields.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to organize a large amount of data. What was your process, and what challenges did you face?" - Preparation: Think about academic projects, personal file organization, or any volunteer work involving data. Focus on your systematic approach and how you ensured accuracy.

• "How would you approach preparing a complex part for 3D printing, considering material properties and printer limitations?" - Preparation: Discuss your understanding of different 3D printing technologies, common issues like supports, overhangs, and material selection. Mention how you'd research or consult to ensure success.

• "Imagine a prototype part doesn't meet design specifications. How would you diagnose the issue and what steps would you take?" - Preparation: Focus on a methodical troubleshooting process, starting with checking the data, the print settings, the material, and the equipment. Emphasize communication with the design team. Company & Culture Questions:

• "Why are you interested in Verne and the autonomous mobility industry?" - Preparation: Research Verne's mission, its technology, and the broader autonomous vehicle landscape. Connect your personal interests and career goals to the company's vision.

• "How do you handle feedback, especially constructive criticism?" - Preparation: Emphasize your willingness to learn and improve. Provide an example where you received feedback and how it helped you grow.

• "Describe your experience working in a team environment. What role do you typically play?" - Preparation: Highlight your collaborative nature, your ability to communicate effectively, and your willingness to support team goals. Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Storytelling: Frame your portfolio projects as narratives. Explain the problem, your solution, the process, and the successful outcome.

• Visuals: Use high-quality images of CAD models, prototypes, and data organization examples.

• Conciseness: Be prepared to present your key projects efficiently, focusing on the most relevant skills for this role.

• Enthusiasm: Convey your passion for 3D data, prototyping, and innovation in the autonomous vehicle space.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should prepare to demonstrate not only technical skills but also a proactive, curious, and collaborative mindset that aligns with Verne's startup culture. A strong understanding of the company's mission will be a significant advantage.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the Verne careers portal, ensuring all required fields are completed accurately.

• Customize Your Resume: Tailor your resume to highlight keywords and responsibilities mentioned in this job description, such as "3D Data," "CAD Software," "3D Printing," "Prototyping," "Data Organization," and "Workshop Safety." Quantify achievements where possible.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Gather examples of your CAD work, 3D printing projects, or any data management initiatives. Ensure they are well-documented and presentable. For student/junior roles, university projects or personal creations are highly relevant.

• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare answers for common HR, technical, and behavioral questions. Review the "Interview Preparation" section above for specific guidance. Practice articulating your skills and experiences clearly and concisely.

• Research Verne: Thoroughly understand Verne's mission, its technology, its position in the autonomous mobility market, and its company culture. This will help you tailor your application and interview responses effectively.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.