Prototyping Engineer (BDM)

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Prototyping Engineer (BDM)

Company: Everstar

Location: Kyiv | Київ, Ukraine

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Engineering / R&D / Manufacturing

Date Posted: October 2, 2026

Experience Level: Mid-Level (2-5 years)

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is situated within an R&D team focused on developing and producing cutting-edge MilTech hardware and electronic solutions.

• The Prototyping Engineer will be instrumental in the end-to-end 3D printing process, from slicing and printer maintenance to post-processing of components.

• Responsibilities include the design and mechanical refinement of enclosures and test stand fixtures using CAD software like SolidWorks or Fusion 360.

• The position involves hands-on integration of electronic components, including soldering and wiring, into designed prototypes.

• This role demands meticulous attention to detail in the creation and mechanical modification of experimental samples for real-world application.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "BDM" in the job title likely refers to "Business Development Manager" or a similar role that involves client interaction or strategic input, though the core responsibilities lean heavily into hands-on engineering. Given the MilTech focus and R&D context, this role might involve understanding client needs for prototypes or contributing to the technical feasibility of new product development initiatives. The presence of "R&D-team" and "technical future" in the description strongly suggests a focus on innovation and product development.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Manage the complete lifecycle of 3D printing operations, including slicing, printer setup, calibration, maintenance (FDM/SLA), and post-processing of printed parts.

• Design and develop functional enclosures, mounting brackets, and test bench fixtures using advanced CAD software such as SolidWorks or Fusion 360, ensuring manufacturability and performance.

• Fabricate and mechanically refine experimental prototypes and research samples, ensuring they meet design specifications and functional requirements.

• Execute the integration of electronic components into prototype housings, performing soldering, wire routing, and initial debugging to ensure system functionality.

• Create and maintain comprehensive technical documentation, including assembly instructions, Bill of Materials (BOMs), and process guides for prototype development and replication.

• Collaborate closely with R&D engineers and product development teams to iterate on designs based on testing feedback and performance analysis.

• Ensure quality control throughout the prototyping process, verifying dimensional accuracy and functional integrity of all manufactured components and assemblies.

• Contribute to the selection and evaluation of new materials and manufacturing technologies for prototyping applications.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities are derived from the detailed tasks listed in the original description, framed as core duties for a Prototyping Engineer within an R&D context. Emphasis is placed on the full 3D printing cycle, CAD design, mechanical assembly, electronics integration, and documentation, which are critical for a role focused on bringing concepts to physical reality in a demanding industry like MilTech.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While specific degree requirements are not stated, a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Industrial Design, or a related technical field is typically expected for this level of responsibility. Equivalent practical experience will also be considered.

Experience: 2-5 years of hands-on experience in prototyping, product development, or a closely related engineering role. Experience within the MilTech or defense industry is a significant advantage.

Required Skills:

• CAD Proficiency: Confident command of SolidWorks or Fusion 360 for complex 3D modeling, assembly design, and technical drawing creation.

• 3D Printing Expertise: Deep understanding of 3D printing materials, optimal printing parameters (slicing, temperature, speed), printer calibration, and troubleshooting for FDM and SLA technologies.

• Mechanical Aptitude: Strong ability to work with manual tools for fabrication, assembly, and modification of mechanical components.

• Electronics Integration: Practical skills in soldering, wire management, and understanding the spatial requirements for integrating electronic components within enclosures.

• Attention to Detail: Meticulous approach to tasks, ensuring precision in measurements, assembly, and documentation.

• Technical Documentation: Ability to create clear and concise assembly instructions, process guides, and basic technical reports.

• Problem-Solving: Capacity to identify and resolve mechanical and assembly-related issues during the prototyping phase.

Preferred Skills:

• Direct 3D Printer Experience: Proven track record of operating and maintaining various types of 3D printers.

• Measurement & Lab Equipment: Familiarity with using precision measuring instruments (calipers, micrometers) and basic laboratory equipment.

• Cost & Assembly Analysis: Understanding of how design choices impact manufacturing cost and assembly complexity.

• Material Science: Knowledge of different engineering materials and their properties relevant to prototyping and end-use applications.

• Basic Machining: Experience with manual machining tools (lathes, mills) for fine-tuning components.

📝 Enhancement Note: These qualifications are inferred from the specific tasks outlined in the job description. The emphasis on SolidWorks/Fusion 360, 3D printing, soldering, and mechanical assembly directly translates into the required skills. Preferred skills are added to enhance the candidate profile and align with common expectations for a prototyping role in a product development environment.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• 3D Design Examples: Showcase a range of 3D models created in SolidWorks or Fusion 360, demonstrating proficiency in complex assemblies, part design, and technical drawings. Include examples of enclosures, mechanical fixtures, or functional prototypes.

• Prototyping Case Studies: Present 2-3 detailed case studies of successful prototypes you have developed. Each case study should outline the problem, your design approach, materials used, manufacturing process (especially 3D printing), integration challenges, and the final outcome.

• CAD-to-Physical Examples: Visual evidence (photos, videos) of 3D-printed parts and assembled prototypes that directly correspond to your CAD designs. This demonstrates the successful translation of digital models into tangible objects.

• Documentation Samples: Include examples of assembly instructions, process documentation, or basic technical reports you have created. This highlights your ability to clearly communicate technical information.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Demonstrate experience in defining and refining workflows for prototyping, from initial CAD design through to final assembly and testing. This could include process mapping or efficiency improvement initiatives.

• Implementation & Automation Methods: Showcase how you have implemented specific prototyping processes, including the setup and optimization of 3D printers, and any methods used to streamline repetitive tasks.

• Measurement & Performance Analysis: Provide examples of how you have measured the success of prototyping efforts, such as by tracking print success rates, assembly times, or the functional performance of prototypes.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an engineering role focused on prototyping, a portfolio is crucial. This section outlines what a strong portfolio should contain, focusing on demonstrating practical skills, design capabilities, and the ability to document and manage the prototyping process effectively. The emphasis is on tangible results and process understanding.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: For a Prototyping Engineer with 2-5 years of experience in Kyiv, Ukraine, the estimated salary range is typically between 30,000 UAH and 60,000 UAH per month, depending on specific skills, experience, and the company's compensation strategy.

Benefits:

• Formal Employment: Transparent cooperation format and stable employment conditions under Ukrainian labor law (КЗпП).

• Annual Leave: 24 calendar days of paid vacation per year, plus an additional day on your birthday.

• Flexible Work Arrangement: Flexible working hours and the option to work remotely up to 10 days per year.

• Comprehensive Health Insurance: Provided by a top insurance company, effective after the probationary period.

• Professional Development: Compensation for professional training, courses, and access to a corporate library.

• Mental Health Support: Company-paid consultations with a psychologist.

• Competitive Compensation: Market-rate salary, bonuses, and performance-based incentives.

• Military Service Deferment Support: Assistance with processing deferment for military-obligated individuals, provided valid documents are available.

• Relocation Assistance: Financial support for candidates relocating from other cities or countries.

• Modern Office Space: A well-equipped office in Kyiv with amenities like coffee, snacks, and dedicated work/meeting areas.

Working Hours: Standard full-time work, with flexible scheduling options. The company offers up to 10 remote workdays per year, indicating a hybrid work model.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is estimated based on current market data for engineering roles in Kyiv, Ukraine, considering the specified experience level and the competitive benefits package offered. The benefits are directly listed from the job description, with added context where appropriate for an operations professional.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: MilTech (Military Technology) / Hardware Development / Electronics Manufacturing. This industry is characterized by a focus on innovation, reliability, precision, and often, rapid development cycles to maintain a technological edge. The company, Everstar, positions itself as a leader in this domain, aiming to create technological advantages for Ukraine.

Company Size: While not explicitly stated, the description "company quickly scales, builds processes, and strengthens teams" suggests a growing mid-sized company, likely between 50-250 employees, or potentially larger if it's a well-funded startup in the MilTech space. This implies a dynamic environment with opportunities for impact but also a need for structured processes.

Founded: The founding date is not provided. However, the emphasis on building processes and scaling suggests it's either a relatively new, fast-growing entity or an established company undergoing significant expansion.

Team Structure:

• The role is part of an R&D department, indicating a focus on innovation, design, and development rather than pure production or sales.

• The Prototyping Engineer will likely work within a specialized R&D team, potentially collaborating with electrical engineers, mechanical designers, and other prototyping specialists.

• Reporting structure is not specified but likely involves a Lead Engineer or R&D Manager.

• Cross-functional collaboration is expected with product development teams and potentially with manufacturing or quality assurance teams as prototypes move towards production. Methodology:

• Data-Driven Innovation: The company's focus on creating "technological advantage" and "changing the course of history" suggests a strong emphasis on research, development, and data-informed decision-making in their product lifecycle.

• Agile Development & Iteration: The rapid scaling and R&D focus imply an agile approach to product development, where rapid prototyping and iterative design are key to achieving project goals.

• Process Building & Optimization: The explicit mention of "building processes" indicates a commitment to establishing efficient, scalable workflows, particularly crucial in a growing MilTech company.

Company Website: https://everstar.breezy.hr (Note: This appears to be a careers portal link, the primary company website might be different, potentially 'everstar.ai' as inferred from the domain).

📝 Enhancement Note: The company context is built from the "About Us" section and the description of the role's impact. The MilTech industry context is crucial for understanding the company's operational priorities and the demands placed on its R&D teams. The inferred company size and stage of growth are based on the language used regarding scaling and process building.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a Mid-Level Prototyping Engineer role, suitable for individuals with 2-5 years of experience. It signifies a level beyond entry-level, where independent work on specific tasks is expected, but strategic oversight is typically provided by senior engineers or managers. The scope involves direct contribution to tangible product development.

Reporting Structure: The Prototyping Engineer will likely report to an R&D Manager or a Senior Engineer within the R&D department. This structure allows for guidance on complex technical challenges and alignment with broader project objectives. Collaboration is expected across various R&D functions and potentially with product management or engineering leads.

Operations Impact: The role has a direct and significant impact on the company's ability to innovate and deliver advanced MilTech products. By creating functional prototypes rapidly and accurately, the Prototyping Engineer enables:

• Faster Product Iteration: Accelerating the design-build-test cycle, leading to quicker product launches and market responsiveness.

• Technological Advantage: Contributing to the development of superior products that provide a competitive edge for Ukraine in the MilTech sector.

• Cost Efficiency: Identifying design flaws or manufacturing challenges early in the prototyping phase, preventing costly changes later in production.

• Quality Assurance: Ensuring that prototypes are built to high standards, validating design concepts before mass production.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific 3D printing technologies, advanced materials, electronics integration, or CAD/CAM software.

• Senior Engineer/Team Lead: Progress to a Senior Prototyping Engineer role, taking on more complex projects, mentoring junior engineers, and contributing to strategic R&D planning.

• Product Development: Transition into broader product development roles, leveraging prototyping experience to influence design for manufacturability and overall product lifecycle management.

• Technical Management: Move into R&D management or operations leadership roles, overseeing teams and strategic initiatives within the engineering department.

• Industry Expertise: Develop niche expertise within the MilTech sector, becoming a go-to resource for specific technological challenges.

📝 Enhancement Note: This analysis expands on the "experience level" and "role summary" to provide a clear picture of career trajectory within an R&D and MilTech context. It highlights the impact of the role and potential pathways for advancement, crucial for ambitious operations professionals.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The company maintains a physical office in Kyiv, described as a "working space on the right bank." This suggests a traditional office environment that also accommodates hybrid work. The office is equipped with amenities like coffee and snacks, indicating a focus on employee comfort and productivity.

Office Location(s): Kyiv, Ukraine (specifically on the "right bank" of the Dnieper River). This implies accessibility within the city, though specific details about public transport or parking would be beneficial for candidates.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Hub: The office serves as a central point for team collaboration and meetings, fostering direct interaction among R&D team members.

• Technology-Rich Environment: Expect access to necessary prototyping equipment (3D printers, tools), CAD workstations, and potentially lab equipment.

• Team Interaction: The hybrid model allows for both focused individual work (potentially remote) and in-person collaboration, team building, and problem-solving sessions within the office.

• Comfort & Amenities: The provision of coffee, snacks, and dedicated workspaces aims to create a conducive and comfortable environment for engineering tasks.

Work Schedule: The job specifies a "flexible schedule" and the option for up to 10 remote workdays annually. This indicates a modern work approach that balances operational needs with employee flexibility. The core working hours are likely standard full-time (e.g., 40 hours/week), but the exact start and end times can be adjusted within agreed-upon parameters.

📝 Enhancement Note: The description of the office and work environment is drawn directly from the provided text, emphasizing the hybrid nature and the amenities available. For an engineering role, the availability of equipment and collaborative spaces is key.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

1. Initial Screening: A review of your application, resume, and portfolio to assess qualifications and alignment with the role. This may involve a brief call with HR or a recruiter.

2. Technical Interview(s): In-depth discussions focusing on your technical skills, CAD proficiency (SolidWorks/Fusion 360), 3D printing knowledge, soldering abilities, and mechanical assembly experience. Expect scenario-based questions and problem-solving challenges.

3. Portfolio Review: A dedicated session where you will present your portfolio, explaining your design process, challenges faced, solutions implemented, and the impact of your work on prototype development. This is a critical stage for demonstrating practical skills.

4. Cultural Fit & Team Interview: Interaction with potential team members and R&D management to assess collaboration style, problem-solving approach, and alignment with Everstar's values and MilTech industry demands.

5. Final Decision: Offer extended based on overall performance throughout the interview stages.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Structure Your Presentation: Organize your portfolio logically, perhaps by project type or chronological order. For each project, clearly articulate the objective, your role, the technical challenges, the solutions you engineered (CAD, 3D printing, electronics), and the final outcome.

• Highlight Process and Impact: Don't just show finished products; explain your thought process, design iterations, material choices, and any optimizations you made. Quantify results where possible (e.g., "reduced assembly time by X%," "achieved Y dimensional tolerance").

• Showcase Versatility: Include examples that demonstrate your proficiency across all key areas: CAD design, 3D printing (different types/materials), mechanical assembly, and basic electronics integration.

• Be Ready for Deep Dives: Anticipate detailed questions about your design choices, material properties, printer settings, and soldering techniques. Be prepared to discuss trade-offs and justify your decisions.

• Connect to MilTech: If possible, frame your experience and projects in a way that highlights your understanding of the demands of the MilTech sector (e.g., durability, reliability, precision).

Challenge Preparation:

• CAD Exercises: Be prepared for practical exercises involving creating specific parts or assemblies in SolidWorks/Fusion 360 within a time limit.

• Troubleshooting Scenarios: Expect questions about diagnosing and resolving common issues in 3D printing (e.g., print failures, warping) or assembly.

• Design for Manufacturability: Be ready to discuss how your prototype designs can be scaled for production, considering cost, efficiency, and material constraints.

• Electronics Integration Challenges: Prepare to discuss how you would integrate specific electronic components into a given enclosure, considering space, wiring, and thermal management.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section provides actionable advice tailored for an engineering role, emphasizing the practical demonstration of skills through a portfolio and technical interviews. The MilTech context is integrated into the preparation advice.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD Software: SolidWorks and/or Fusion 360 are essential. Proficiency in parametric modeling, assembly design, and technical drawing generation is required.

• 3D Printers: Hands-on experience with FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) and SLA (Stereolithography) printers is critical. This includes understanding their operation, maintenance, and material capabilities.

• Slicing Software: Familiarity with slicer programs (e.g., Cura, PrusaSlicer, Simplify3D) for preparing models for 3D printing.

• Soldering Station: Essential for electronics integration, requiring proficiency in soldering components and managing wires.

• Hand Tools & Power Tools: Competence in using a variety of manual and potentially basic power tools for fabrication and assembly.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not explicitly stated as a primary focus for this role, basic data tracking for print jobs, material usage, and prototype testing results may be required. Familiarity with basic spreadsheet software (e.g., Excel, Google Sheets) for logging and simple analysis is beneficial. CRM & Automation:

• Not directly relevant to this hands-on engineering role, but understanding how prototypes feed into the broader product development lifecycle managed by CRM or project management tools might be advantageous. Other Potential Tools:

• 3D Scanning: Could be a plus for reverse engineering or quality control.

• Basic Electronics Testing Equipment: Multimeters, oscilloscopes for debugging integrated circuits.

• Version Control Systems: For managing CAD files and documentation, though less common at this level unless integrated into a larger PLM system.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section details the specific technical tools and software expected for a Prototyping Engineer. It focuses on the hands-on equipment and design software central to the role, with a realistic assessment of other potentially useful technologies.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Innovation & Technological Advancement: A strong drive to push boundaries and create cutting-edge solutions, particularly in the MilTech sector. This means a willingness to experiment and explore new ideas.

• Precision & Reliability: A commitment to high standards of quality, accuracy, and dependability in all engineered solutions, reflecting the critical nature of MilTech products.

• Efficiency & Agility: A focus on optimizing processes and workflows to deliver results quickly and effectively, adapting to evolving project needs and market demands.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: An emphasis on working together across disciplines to achieve common goals, valuing diverse perspectives and shared problem-solving.

• Impact & Purpose: A dedication to contributing to meaningful projects that have a significant impact, such as enhancing national security or technological capabilities.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Expect close collaboration with mechanical engineers, electrical engineers, product managers, and potentially manufacturing specialists. Communication will be key to ensuring prototypes meet diverse requirements.

• Iterative Feedback Loops: The culture likely encourages a continuous cycle of design, prototyping, testing, and feedback, where constructive criticism is welcomed to refine designs.

• Knowledge Sharing: An environment where engineers are encouraged to share best practices, technical insights, and lessons learned, fostering collective growth and problem-solving capabilities.

• Hands-on Problem Solving: A culture that values practical application and direct engagement with challenges, rather than purely theoretical discussions.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section extrapolates the company's values and collaboration style from its industry (MilTech), its mission (creating technological future), and its operational context (R&D, scaling). It aims to describe a typical culture for such an environment.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Rapid Development Cycles: The MilTech industry often demands quick turnaround times for prototypes, requiring efficient workflow management and the ability to work under pressure.

• Complexity of Integration: Successfully integrating diverse electronic components into custom-designed housings can present intricate mechanical and electrical challenges.

• Material Limitations & Selection: Choosing the right materials for prototypes that can withstand rigorous testing or mimic end-use conditions requires careful consideration and research.

• Evolving Technologies: Staying current with advancements in 3D printing, CAD software, and electronic components is an ongoing challenge that requires continuous learning.

• Balancing Functionality and Manufacturability: Designing prototypes that are not only functional but also consider potential future mass production constraints and costs.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Prototyping Techniques: Opportunities to learn and master new 3D printing technologies (e.g., metal printing, multi-material printing), advanced CAD techniques, or CNC machining.

• MilTech Industry Insights: Gaining deep knowledge of the specific requirements, standards, and applications within the military technology sector.

• Electronics & Embedded Systems: Expanding knowledge in circuit design, PCB layout, and embedded systems integration through hands-on project work.

• Materials Science: Developing a deeper understanding of polymer science, composites, and metal alloys relevant to advanced manufacturing and prototyping.

• Project Management & Leadership: Potential pathways to lead prototyping projects, manage timelines, and mentor junior engineers.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section outlines potential difficulties inherent in the role and industry, framing them as opportunities for skill development and professional growth. It's tailored to the specific context of MilTech R&D and prototyping.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Prototyping Process Deep Dive: "Describe a complex prototype you developed. Walk me through your design process, the CAD tools you used, the 3D printing challenges you overcame, and how you integrated the electronics. What was the final outcome, and what would you do differently next time?" (Focus on demonstrating your end-to-end process, problem-solving, and iterative approach).

• Material Selection Rationale: "Imagine you need to prototype a component that must withstand significant vibration and moderate heat. What materials would you consider, and how would you justify your choice based on 3D printing capabilities and performance requirements?" (Prepare to discuss material properties and trade-offs).

• CAD Design Workflow: "How do you approach designing an enclosure for a new electronic module? What are the key considerations for ensuring it's robust, easy to assemble, and printable?" (Showcase your systematic design approach and understanding of DFM/DFA).

• Troubleshooting Scenarios: "If a critical 3D print for a functional prototype fails repeatedly due to warping, what steps would you take to diagnose and resolve the issue?" (Demonstrate your troubleshooting methodology and practical knowledge of FDM printing).

Company & Culture Questions:

• Motivation for MilTech: "Why are you interested in working in the MilTech industry, and specifically with Everstar?" (Research Everstar's mission and recent projects; connect your skills and career goals to their work).

• Team Collaboration: "Describe your ideal working relationship with electrical and mechanical engineers on an R&D team. How do you ensure effective communication and collaboration during prototype development?" (Highlight your ability to work cross-functionally and contribute to a team environment).

• Adaptability: "How do you stay updated with the latest advancements in 3D printing technology and CAD software?" (Show your commitment to continuous learning and professional development).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Start with Impact: Begin by showcasing your most impressive or relevant projects that align with MilTech requirements.

• Tell a Story: For each project, explain the "why," "what," and "how." What was the problem or objective? What did you build? How did you build it, detailing your technical choices (CAD, materials, printing, assembly)? What was the result?

• Quantify Achievements: Use metrics whenever possible to demonstrate the success of your prototypes (e.g., achieved target dimensions, passed stress tests, reduced assembly time).

• Showcase Technical Skills: Clearly illustrate your proficiency in SolidWorks/Fusion 360, various 3D printing techniques, and electronics integration through visual aids (renderings, photos, videos).

• Be Prepared for Questions: Anticipate detailed technical questions about your projects and be ready to defend your design decisions and process choices.

📝 Enhancement Note: This preparation guide focuses on anticipating technical and behavioral questions relevant to an engineering prototyping role, with specific emphasis on the MilTech context and the importance of a strong portfolio.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided application link on Breezy HR.

• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your portfolio to highlight projects involving 3D printing, CAD design (SolidWorks/Fusion 360), mechanical assembly, and electronics integration. Include detailed case studies demonstrating your problem-solving skills and impact on prototype development.

• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly lists your proficiency with relevant CAD software, 3D printing technologies, soldering, and mechanical assembly. Use keywords from the job description and quantify your achievements with specific examples of successful prototypes.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your technical experience, design process, and problem-solving abilities. Prepare to present your portfolio and discuss your contributions to past projects, focusing on clarity and impact.

• Company Research: Investigate Everstar's mission, the MilTech industry landscape, and recent developments in defense technology. Understand the company's focus on innovation and its role in creating technological advantages for Ukraine.

⚠️ 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.

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