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Apprentice Prototype Build Engineer Jobs in Arizona

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Mechanical Design Engineer

Mesa, AZ · On-site

$90K - $115K/yr

Rapid Prototyping & Testing: Build, assemble, and bench-test functional prototypes using 3D ... Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering (BSME) or related field with 3-6 years of hands-on ...

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Mechanical Design Engineer

Mesa, AZ · On-site

$90K - $115K/yr

Rapid Prototyping & Testing: Build, assemble, and bench-test functional prototypes using 3D ... Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering (BSME) or related field with 3-6 years of hands-on ...

Collaborate in the buy/partner vs build decision process including evaluating 3rd party products ... Utilize design software to create prototypes of products * In-depth knowledge in PCB design ...

Collaborate in the buy/partner vs build decision process including evaluating 3rd party products ... Utilize design software to create prototypes of products * In-depth knowledge in PCB design ...

Sr. Development Engineer

Wittmann, AZ · On-site

$93K - $117K/yr

This goes for the emissions-free Electric Adventure Vehicles we build, and the curious, courageous ... End to end ownership of prototype vehicle commissioning and activation of early-development and ...

Sr. Development Engineer

Wittmann, AZ · On-site

$93K - $117K/yr

This goes for the emissions-free Electric Adventure Vehicles we build, and the curious, courageous ... End to end ownership of prototype vehicle commissioning and activation of early-development and ...

Sr. Development Engineer

Wittmann, AZ · On-site

$93K - $117K/yr

This goes for the emissions-free Electric Adventure Vehicles we build, and the curious, courageous ... End to end ownership of prototype vehicle commissioning and activation of early-development and ...

Sr. Development Engineer

Wittmann, AZ · On-site

$93K - $117K/yr

This goes for the emissions-free Electric Adventure Vehicles we build, and the curious, courageous ... End to end ownership of prototype vehicle commissioning and activation of early-development and ...

Sr. Program Manager, Supply Chain

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$142K/yr

Manage part availability for all prototype build phases * Ensure new vehicle programs are on time ... Work cross-functionally with engineering, central PMO, supplier quality, manufacturing, and ...

Sr. Software Engineer, Applied AI Systems

Tempe, AZ · On-site

$117K - $154K/yr

... prototype to production. * Build software that connects models, tools, data, and evaluation ... Work across engineering, product, and research to resolve complex technical problems and deliver ...

Build and maintain automation solutions using Python (scripts, workflows, utilities). * Develop ... Rapidly prototype tools or concepts to speed up evaluations and reduce context-switching overhead.

They are seeking a Backend Software Engineer to define, build, and scale the backend foundation of ... prototypes and MVPs into production‑ready systems • Ensure backend systems meet enterprise ...

You build, review, and operate fully agentic systems. You also mentor engineers and help set how the org adopts agentic AI setting the foundation and creating prototypes or platforms that can be ...

... test engineers * Work directly with fabrication and assembly partners to address advanced ... Support prototype build, debug, and iteration efforts in collaboration with hardware and test teams

Showing results 41-60

Apprentice Prototype Build Engineer information

What is an apprentice prototype build engineer?

Apprentice Prototype Build Engineers are entry-level professionals who assist in the design, assembly, and testing of prototype products or components, typically in the automotive, aerospace, or manufacturing industries. They work under the guidance of experienced engineers and technicians, gaining hands-on experience with new technologies and processes. Their responsibilities often include interpreting technical drawings, using specialized tools, and recording test results. This role is usually part of a structured apprenticeship program that combines on-the-job training with classroom learning, helping apprentices develop the skills needed to become qualified build engineers.

What are the typical responsibilities and learning opportunities for an apprentice prototype build engineer during the initial months on the job?

As an Apprentice Prototype Build Engineer, your early responsibilities will focus on supporting senior engineers in assembling, testing, and refining prototype components. You'll learn hands-on skills such as interpreting technical drawings, using fabrication tools, and following build processes in a workshop environment. Collaboration is key—expect to work closely with multidisciplinary teams, including design engineers and technicians, to troubleshoot and implement design changes. This role offers significant learning opportunities, from gaining familiarity with new manufacturing technologies to developing problem-solving abilities essential for advancement.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an apprentice prototype build engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Apprentice Prototype Build Engineer, a solid understanding of mechanical and electrical principles, hands-on fabrication skills, and a relevant technical qualification or apprenticeship are essential. Familiarity with CAD software, workshop machinery, and safety regulations is typically required, along with any industry-specific certifications. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are key soft skills that set candidates apart. These competencies ensure accurate prototype assembly, efficient troubleshooting, and safe, collaborative progress throughout the engineering development process.

What is the difference between Apprentice Prototype Build Engineer vs Mechanical Technician?

AspectApprentice Prototype Build EngineerMechanical Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; technical training or apprenticeshipHigh school diploma; technical certification or associate degree often preferred
Work EnvironmentManufacturing or R&D labs; hands-on prototype assemblyManufacturing plants; equipment maintenance and assembly
Industry UsageCommon in aerospace, automotive, and product development sectorsWidespread across manufacturing and industrial sectors
Job FocusAssisting in prototype build, learning manufacturing processesMaintaining, repairing, and assembling mechanical systems

The Apprentice Prototype Build Engineer typically focuses on learning and assisting in prototype assembly within manufacturing or R&D environments, often as part of an apprenticeship. In contrast, a Mechanical Technician performs maintenance, repairs, and assembly of mechanical systems, usually with more experience and certification. Both roles are essential in manufacturing industries but differ in experience level and specific responsibilities.

What are the most commonly searched types of Prototype Build Engineer jobs in Arizona?

The most popular types of Prototype Build Engineer jobs in Arizona are:

What cities in Arizona are hiring for Apprentice Prototype Build Engineer jobs?

Cities in Arizona with the most Apprentice Prototype Build Engineer job openings:

Mechanical Design Engineer

Mesa, AZ • On-site

Nacho Offroad Technology
Electric Lighting Equipment Manufacturing • 1 - 10 employees

$90K - $115K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Re-posted 11 hours ago

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Key responsibilities

  • Take ownership of designing and developing mechanical enclosures, thermal management systems, optical packaging, and structural brackets using 3D CAD (SolidWorks).

  • Build, assemble, and test prototypes, including running stress simulations and ensuring designs meet environmental and durability standards.

  • Collaborate with electrical engineers and manufacturing teams to ensure designs comply with OEM specifications, standards, and manufacturing processes.


Job description

The Role

We are seeking a Mechanical Design Engineer II to bring next-generation automotive lighting concepts to life. In this role, you will take hands-on ownership of physical enclosures, thermal management systems, optical packaging, and structural brackets. You’ll bridge the gap between initial napkin sketches and production-ready electro-mechanical assemblies.
You won't just be pushing CAD models; you will be driving DFM, building prototypes, running stress simulations, and ensuring our products withstand the harshest off-road conditions imaginable. If you thrive in a nimble environment, love optimizing heat dissipation, and naturally find yourself dissecting hardware or customizing off-road rigs in your spare time, you’ll fit right in.


Key Responsibilities


Electro-Mechanical & Thermal Packaging

• 3D CAD & Enclosure Design: Lead mechanical CAD development (SolidWorks) for rugged LED light housings, bezels, lenses, and mounting hardware.

• Thermal & Environmental Shielding: Design high-performance heat sinks and thermal dissipation pathways for high-output LED arrays while sealing housings against dust and high-pressure washing (IP68/IP69K).

• PCB & Optical Integration: Work closely with electrical engineers to integrate custom PCBs, wiring harnesses, lenses, and reflectors into tight mechanical footprints.


Materials, Prototyping & DFM


• Material Selection: Select optimal metals, engineered plastics, thermal interfaces, gaskets, and coatings to maximize strength, weight savings, and environmental resistance.

• Rapid Prototyping & Testing: Build, assemble, and bench-test functional prototypes using 3D printing, CNC machining, and lab environmental testing.

• Manufacturing Optimization: Design for Manufacturability/Assembly (DFM/DFA) across die-cast aluminum, injection molding, and sheet metal processes.

OEM Execution & Quality Standards

• OEM Technical Specs: Interpret, author, and validate mechanical drawing standards, tolerance stacks (GD&T), and technical specs for OEM clients.

• Automotive Compliance: Ensure all mechanical assemblies comply with SAE/DOT standards, vibration/shock requirements, and thermal shock cycles.

• Production Support: Partner with manufacturing teams and vendors to resolve tooling, tolerance, or assembly issues during initial production ramps.


Qualifications & Skill Set


• Education & Experience: Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering (BSME) or related field with 3–6 years of hands-on mechanical product design experience (preferably in automotive, lighting, or rugged electronics).

• Solid CAD & GD&T Skills: Strong proficiency in 3D CAD design (SolidWorks) and practical application of GD&T (ASME Y14.5).

• Electro-Mechanical Design: Proven experience packaging electronics, thermal interfaces, optical optics, or die-cast aluminum/injection-molded components.

• OEM Spec Mastery: Experience interpreting, creating, and validating engineering specifications and drawings for OEM automotive applications.

• Thermal & FEA Analysis: Fundamental knowledge of thermal simulation (CFD) and structural analysis (FEA) to validate designs prior to prototyping.


Preferred / Bonus Points


• Off-Road & Automotive Passion: Active involvement in the automotive or off-road community (overlanding, rock crawling, motorsports) is a huge plus—you understand the real-world abuse our gear faces.

• Optical Packaging: Familiarity with secondary optical design, reflector geometry, or polycarbonate lens molding.

• Supplier Coordination: Experience working with overseas or domestic tooling vendors and machine shops.

Company Description

Nacho Offroad Technology is a manufacturer of aftermarket automotive lighting. We take pride in being off road enthusiasts and design products we are passionate about. In-house design, validation, and manufacturing with an aggressive roadmap of new products planned. Looking for innovators and dreamers that know how to execute, while maintaining a fun positive attitude.