Rapid Prototyping Project Manager at RTX

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Rapid Prototyping Project Manager

Company: RTX

Location: Tucson, Arizona, United States

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: Project Management (within a Prototyping/Fabrication environment)

Date Posted: 2025-06-12T00:00:00

Experience Level: 5+ years

Remote Status: Onsite

🎨 Role Summary

Oversee and manage the end-to-end lifecycle of rapid prototyping projects within a high-volume, low-mix fabrication shop environment.
Serve as the primary liaison between engineering teams and the fabrication shop, ensuring clear communication of technical requirements and project timelines.
Utilize project management skills to estimate project costs, labor hours, and material lead times, ensuring projects are delivered on schedule and within budget.
Implement and manage internal shop floor management systems to track project progress, maintain documentation, and ensure traceability.
Collaborate with shop leadership and customers to proactively identify and mitigate potential issues, including technical challenges, scope creep, and schedule delays.

📝 Enhancement Note: While this role is titled "Project Manager," the context within a "Rapid Prototyping and Fabrication" department, often referred to as a "Bike Shop" in engineering, signifies a hands-on role deeply involved in the technical aspects of manufacturing and prototyping, not just traditional project management. The inclusion of "design" is indirectly relevant as prototypes often stem from design concepts.

🖼️ Primary Responsibilities

Accurately estimate fabrication tasks, including labor hours, material costs, and lead times, while assessing manufacturability and tooling requirements for rapid prototypes.
Effectively communicate and negotiate technical requirements, project scopes, and schedules with diverse stakeholders, including engineering teams and fabrication personnel.
Utilize the internal shop floor management system (RAPID) to establish project folders, manage bills of materials (BOMs), create shop travelers, and maintain comprehensive traceability of key project documentation.
Initiate and manage the procurement process for raw materials, hardware, and machine tools required for each prototyping project, coordinating closely with the procurement team to monitor receipts and address supply chain constraints.
Oversee the progress of multiple prototyping projects concurrently, ensuring efficient flow through various shop processes, conducting final part/project inspections, and completing project closeout activities.
Proactively identify potential technical issues, scope changes, and schedule deviations, working collaboratively with shop leadership and customers to develop and implement effective mitigation strategies to ensure project success.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of technical understanding (fabrication drawings, GD&T, machining processes) and project management, which is typical for a prototyping environment where the manager needs to bridge the gap between design/engineering intent and manufacturing execution. The emphasis on "rapid" suggests a need for agile project management techniques.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: A Bachelor of Science degree in Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics (STEM) is typically required, providing a foundational understanding of technical principles relevant to manufacturing and prototyping.

Experience: A minimum of five (5) years of experience in a manufacturing or machine shop environment is essential, demonstrating practical knowledge of fabrication processes and project management within such settings. Relevant estimating experience is also crucial.

Required Skills:

Proven experience in project management within a manufacturing or fabrication environment, particularly in rapid prototyping contexts.
Demonstrated ability to accurately estimate fabrication tasks, including labor, materials, and lead times.
Proficiency in reading and interpreting complex fabrication drawings, including a basic understanding of Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T).
Active and transferable U.S. government issued security clearance (DoD Secret) is required prior to start date.
U.S. citizenship is mandatory to be eligible for the required security clearance.

Preferred Skills:

Knowledge of various materials used in fabrication, machining processes, plating techniques, hardware, and inserts.
Strong computer skills, including proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite for documentation, communication, and project tracking.
Excellent organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks, prioritize effectively, and meet tight deadlines in a dynamic environment.
Strong communication and interpersonal skills, enabling effective collaboration with diverse teams and stakeholders.
Experience using 3D CAD software for reviewing designs and understanding manufacturing implications.

📝 Enhancement Note: The required skills focus heavily on practical manufacturing and project management experience within that context. Preferred skills add valuable technical depth (materials, processes, CAD) and essential soft skills (organization, communication) crucial for success in a collaborative prototyping environment.

🎨 Portfolio & Creative Requirements

This role is primarily focused on project management within a technical rapid prototyping environment rather than a traditional design role requiring a creative portfolio. However, demonstrating experience in managing projects that involved the fabrication of complex or innovative designs would be beneficial.

Portfolio Essentials:

While a traditional design portfolio is not expected, candidates should be prepared to discuss past projects where they managed the prototyping or fabrication of technical components or systems.
Highlight projects that showcase your ability to estimate costs, manage schedules, and overcome technical challenges in a manufacturing setting.
Include examples of project documentation you've created or managed, such as project plans, bills of materials, or production schedules.
If applicable, showcase any experience with 3D CAD software used for reviewing or understanding technical designs.

Process Documentation:

Be prepared to articulate your process for managing a rapid prototyping project from initial request through delivery.
Discuss your approach to estimating project requirements, identifying potential manufacturing issues, and coordinating with technical teams.
Explain how you manage project timelines, track progress through fabrication stages, and ensure quality control.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the technical nature of the role, the "portfolio" focus shifts from creative design outcomes to demonstrating project management capabilities within a manufacturing/prototyping context. The emphasis is on process, problem-solving in fabrication, and technical understanding.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: 82,000 USD - 164,000 USD. The salary range provided is a good faith estimate representative of all experience levels. RTX considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the role, function and associated responsibilities, a candidate’s work experience, location, education/training, and key skills.

Benefits:

Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance plans to support employee health and well-being.
Life Insurance, Short-Term Disability, and Long-Term Disability coverage for financial protection.
401(k) Match program to assist employees in saving for retirement.
Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) for pre-tax savings on eligible healthcare and dependent care expenses.
Flexible Work Schedules, where applicable and consistent with business needs and the onsite nature of this role.
Employee Assistance Program (EAP) providing confidential support for personal and work-related challenges.
Employee Scholar Program offering educational assistance for career development.
Parental Leave to support new parents.
Paid Time Off (PTO) and company Holidays for rest and personal time.

Working Hours: This is a full-time, onsite position. While flexible work schedules may be available depending on business needs, the primary work will be conducted onsite to support rapid prototyping operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided by the company is specific and broad, covering various experience levels. The benefits package is typical for a large defense contractor and includes comprehensive health, financial, and work-life balance components relevant to attracting and retaining skilled professionals.

🎯Team & Company Context

🏢 Company & Design Culture

Industry: Aviation and Aerospace Component Manufacturing. RTX operates within the defense and aerospace sector, focusing on advanced sensors, aerospace systems, and defense solutions. This industry context means a strong emphasis on precision, reliability, rigorous testing, and adherence to stringent quality and security standards.

Company Size: 10,001+ employees (specifically 133,141 LinkedIn employees). As a large public company, RTX offers extensive resources, established processes, and opportunities for career growth within a complex organizational structure. This size often means defined roles and potentially less direct exposure to executive leadership compared to smaller companies.

Founded: While a specific founding date for RTX is not provided, it is comprised of businesses with over 100 years of experience, indicating a long-standing history and deep expertise in the defense and aerospace domain.

Team Structure:

The role is within the Engineering Prototyping and Fabrication department ("Bike Shop") within the Systems Integration and Test directorate’s Environment Center. This suggests a specialized team focused on supporting broader engineering and testing efforts through rapid prototyping.
The position reports to shop leadership and works closely with a "Front-End team," indicating a structured operational hierarchy and collaborative workflow for managing incoming project requests.
Collaboration with engineering teams is a primary function, highlighting a cross-functional interaction model where the prototyping team supports the needs of various engineering disciplines.

Methodology:

The "rapid prototyping" aspect suggests an agile approach to fabrication, focused on quick turnaround and iterative development to support early demonstration and product development.
The use of a "shop floor management system (RAPID)" indicates a reliance on structured processes and digital tools for tracking projects and maintaining traceability, essential in a regulated industry.
The need to identify "manufacturability issues" implies a focus on Design for Manufacturing (DFM) principles and close collaboration with engineers to ensure designs can be efficiently and reliably produced.

Company Website: https://careers.rtx.com/global/en

📝 Enhancement Note: Company information derived from the provided data and standard industry knowledge for large defense contractors. The "Bike Shop" terminology is a common informal term for rapid prototyping labs in various engineering fields, emphasizing agility and quick turnaround. The industry context heavily influences the operational procedures and security requirements.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Design Career Level: This role is best categorized as a mid-to-senior level project management position within a technical fabrication and prototyping context. It requires significant experience (5+ years) and the ability to manage multiple complex projects independently.

Reporting Structure: The position reports to shop leadership, indicating a clear line of management within the prototyping and fabrication department. Collaboration with the "Front-End team" and engineering teams suggests a matrixed or cross-functional interaction model rather than a purely hierarchical one.

Design Impact: While not a traditional design role, this position has a significant impact on the product development process by enabling the rapid creation of physical prototypes. This directly supports engineering validation, testing, and early demonstrations, influencing the feasibility and iteration speed of new designs.

Growth Opportunities:

Advancement within the prototyping and fabrication department into leadership or supervisory roles.
Opportunities to manage larger or more complex rapid prototyping projects with increased scope and technical challenges.
Potential to move into broader project management roles within the Systems Integration and Test directorate or other engineering departments, leveraging expertise in manufacturing processes and project execution.
Skill development in advanced manufacturing techniques, materials science, or specialized project management methodologies relevant to rapid prototyping in a defense context.

📝 Enhancement Note: The career analysis considers the technical focus of the role within a manufacturing environment. Growth paths are likely to involve increased project complexity, leadership within the prototyping function, or transitioning to broader project management roles within the engineering or operations domains.

🌐 Work Environment

Studio Type: The position is described as "Onsite," indicating a traditional office and manufacturing facility environment. The reference to the "Bike Shop" suggests a dedicated prototyping and fabrication space equipped with necessary machinery and tools.

Office Location(s): The specific location is 6880 South Tucson Boulevard Building B, Tucson, AZ, 85706-7016 USA. This is a specific facility associated with RTX operations in Tucson.

Design Workspace Context:

The work environment will be primarily within or closely connected to the rapid prototyping and fabrication shop, requiring comfort and familiarity with a manufacturing setting.
The ability to collaborate effectively with fabrication technicians, engineers, and procurement specialists in a hands-on environment is crucial.
Access to and utilization of specific machinery, tooling, and potentially 3D CAD software will be part of the daily workflow.

Work Schedule: Full-time, onsite. The nature of supporting rapid prototyping operations likely requires a consistent presence during core operational hours of the fabrication shop.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment details are based on the explicit "Onsite" requirement and the nature of a rapid prototyping and fabrication facility. The "Bike Shop" context implies a more dynamic and hands-on environment compared to a typical office setting.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Design Interview Process:

Initial application screening focusing on relevant project management experience in manufacturing environments, technical skills (fabrication drawings, GD&T), and security clearance eligibility.
Potential phone or video interview to discuss experience, understanding of rapid prototyping workflows, and ability to manage technical projects.
In-person interview(s) at the Tucson facility, likely involving discussions with the hiring manager, members of the prototyping team, and potentially engineers who utilize the prototyping services.
Discussions will likely cover past project examples, problem-solving approaches in manufacturing, experience with estimating and scheduling, and ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.
Given the security clearance requirement, the interview process may also include components related to suitability for handling sensitive information.

Portfolio Review Tips:

Rather than a creative design portfolio, focus on preparing to discuss specific rapid prototyping or manufacturing projects you have managed.
For each project discussed, be prepared to detail the scope, your role in estimating and planning, challenges encountered (technical or logistical), solutions implemented, and the project's outcome relative to schedule and budget.
Highlight your process for interpreting technical drawings, identifying manufacturability concerns, and coordinating with technical teams.
If you have experience using 3D CAD or shop floor management systems, be prepared to demonstrate or discuss your proficiency.

Challenge Preparation:

While a formal design challenge is unlikely for this specific role, be prepared for potential situational questions related to managing project delays, handling scope changes, resolving technical issues on the shop floor, or communicating difficult news to stakeholders.
Practice articulating your project management process clearly and concisely, focusing on how you ensure projects stay on track in a dynamic environment.
Review your understanding of manufacturing processes and GD&T to confidently discuss technical aspects of prototyping projects.

ATS Keywords: Project Management, Rapid Prototyping, Fabrication, Manufacturing, Machine Shop, Estimating, Scheduling, Fabrication Drawings, GD&T, Bill of Materials (BOM), Shop Traveler, Procurement, Technical Requirements, Project Closeout, Manufacturability, Tooling, Materials, Machining Processes, Plating, Hardware, Inserts, MS Office Suite, Organizational Skills, Communication, Interpersonal Skills, 3D CAD Software, Security Clearance, DoD Secret, Systems Integration, Test Environment, Process Improvement, Quality Control, Risk Management, Stakeholder Communication, Technical Project Management.

📝 Enhancement Note: The application process and preparation tips are tailored to a technical project management role in a defense/manufacturing context, emphasizing experience with fabrication processes and project execution rather than creative design. The security clearance is a significant factor influencing the process.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Design Tools: While not a hands-on design role, familiarity with 3D CAD software is preferred, suggesting interaction with design outputs. Specific tools aren't listed, but common industry software like SolidWorks, CATIA, or Inventor might be relevant for viewing and understanding designs.

Collaboration & Handoff:

An internal shop floor management system (RAPID) is explicitly mentioned for project tracking and documentation.
Proficiency in MS Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) is required for communication, documentation, and potentially basic data analysis related to project performance.
Effective communication with engineering teams and procurement is crucial, likely involving email, meetings, and potentially collaborative platforms used within RTX.

Research & Testing: While not directly involved in design research or user testing, the role supports engineering and test teams by providing physical prototypes for their validation activities. Understanding the needs and timelines of testing is important for project scheduling.

📝 Enhancement Note: The tools listed reflect the operational and project management aspects of the role within a manufacturing environment. The emphasis is on systems for managing workflow and documentation, with a preference for understanding design tools (CAD) to facilitate communication with engineers.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Design Values: While a specific "design" culture isn't detailed, the company values of Trust, Respect, Accountability, Collaboration, and Innovation are foundational to the team culture within the rapid prototyping department. These values translate to:

Trust: Relying on team members to deliver on their commitments and handle sensitive project information responsibly, especially given the defense context.
Respect: Valuing the expertise of fabrication technicians, engineers, and other stakeholders, fostering a collaborative and inclusive environment.
Accountability: Taking ownership of project outcomes, meeting deadlines, and managing resources effectively.
Collaboration: Working closely with engineering teams, procurement, and other departments to ensure seamless project execution and problem resolution.
Innovation: Supporting the rapid prototyping of new and innovative designs, and potentially finding innovative ways to improve prototyping processes.

Collaboration Style:

The team operates in a "fast-paced high volume, low mix, dynamic manufacturing environment," suggesting a need for agile and responsive collaboration.
Close interaction with the "Front-End team" and shop leadership indicates a structured intake and management process for projects.
Effective communication and negotiation with customers (engineering teams) are highlighted, requiring strong interpersonal skills and the ability to manage expectations.
Troubleshooting technical issues and managing constraints collaboratively with shop leadership and customers is a key aspect of the role.

📝 Enhancement Note: The team culture is inferred from the company's stated values and the description of the work environment. The emphasis on collaboration and problem-solving is typical for a support function like rapid prototyping within a larger engineering organization.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Design Challenges: While not design challenges in a traditional sense, this role presents challenges related to managing the execution of designs through fabrication:

Managing multiple rapid prototyping projects concurrently in a high-volume environment with competing priorities and tight deadlines.
Identifying and resolving manufacturability issues in engineering designs before or during fabrication, requiring a strong understanding of manufacturing processes.
Effectively communicating technical constraints and potential delays to engineering teams and managing scope creep.
Coordinating the timely procurement of specialized materials and hardware to avoid project delays.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

Deepen expertise in various manufacturing processes and materials used in rapid prototyping within the defense industry.
Develop advanced skills in project management methodologies tailored for fast-paced technical environments.
Gain experience in managing complex projects with stringent security and quality requirements.
Opportunities to mentor junior project coordinators or contribute to process improvements within the prototyping department.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are framed around the practical difficulties of managing technical projects in a manufacturing setting, highlighting the need for problem-solving and coordination skills. Growth opportunities focus on increasing technical and project management expertise within this specialized domain.

💡 Interview Preparation

Design Process Questions: While not a design role, be prepared to discuss your process for managing the fabrication phase of a project. Questions might include:

Describe your process for taking an engineering design from concept (or technical drawing) to a physical prototype.
How do you estimate the time and cost required for a rapid prototyping project based on technical specifications?
Give an example of a time you identified a manufacturability issue in a design and how you worked with the engineering team to resolve it.
How do you manage multiple projects with competing priorities and limited resources in a fabrication environment?

Company Culture Questions: Prepare to discuss how your approach aligns with RTX's values and the collaborative nature of the prototyping team:

How do you ensure effective communication and collaboration with technical teams and stakeholders throughout a project?
Describe a situation where you had to deliver difficult news (e.g., schedule delay, technical issue) to a customer and how you handled it.
How do you stay organized and maintain traceability for multiple projects in a fast-paced environment?

Portfolio Presentation Strategy: Focus your preparation on discussing specific projects you have managed. Structure your discussion around:

Project Overview: Briefly describe the project and its objective.
Your Role: Explain your specific responsibilities in managing the prototyping or fabrication process.
Process: Detail the steps you took, from estimation and planning to fabrication and delivery.
Challenges and Solutions: Discuss any technical or logistical challenges you faced and how you overcame them.
Outcome: Highlight the successful completion of the project, ideally within schedule and budget.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation advice is tailored to the project management and technical focus of the role, emphasizing practical experience and problem-solving in a manufacturing context rather than creative design discussions.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this design position:

Submit your application through this link
Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your project management experience in manufacturing or fabrication environments, specifically mentioning experience with rapid prototyping if applicable.
Emphasize your technical skills, including experience with fabrication drawings, GD&T, estimating, and any relevant manufacturing processes or tools.
Be prepared to discuss projects where you successfully managed the fabrication of technical components, focusing on your process, problem-solving, and collaboration skills.
Ensure you meet the security clearance requirements and are prepared to discuss this aspect of the role.

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

Rapid Prototyping Project Manager