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Apprentice Prototype Build Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Wiegel Tool Works

Tool and Die Apprentice

Wood Dale, IL · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

... engineering, tooling, and manufacturing concepts. This five-year apprenticeship program provides ... Build professional relationships and networking opportunities within the industry * Obtain ...

Amplify HR

AI Development Engineer

Northbrook, IL · Hybrid

$110K - $130K/yr

AI Development Engineer Amplify HR Management | Northbrook, ILHybrid (2/3 days a week onsite in ... Key Responsibilities Build and iterate AI prototypes that can do tens of thousands of financial and ...

Morningstar, Inc.

AI Product Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$145K - $182K/yr

Build and iterate AI prototypes for advisor workflows * Integrate signals, models, and UX designs ... Rapidly validate ideas before long-term engineering investment Required Skills * AI prototyping ...

Morningstar, Inc.

Associate AI Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$85K/yr

Build and iterate AI prototypes for advisor workflows * Integrate signals, models, and UX designs ... Rapidly validate ideas before long-term engineering investment Required Skills * AI prototyping ...

Humana

Lead AI Technical Product Manager

Chicago, IL

$172K - $198K/yr

Build working prototypes anddemos yourselfusing agentic coding and AI tools (for example, Claude ... Lead engineers, data scientists, designers, and business partners without direct authority. Author ...

New

Humana

Lead AI Technical Product Manager

Chicago, IL

$172K - $198K/yr

Build working prototypes anddemos yourselfusing agentic coding and AI tools (for example, Claude ... Lead engineers, data scientists, designers, and business partners without direct authority. Author ...

New

Humana

Lead AI Technical Product Manager

Chicago, IL

$172K - $198K/yr

Build working prototypes anddemos yourselfusing agentic coding and AI tools (for example, Claude ... Lead engineers, data scientists, designers, and business partners without direct authority. Author ...

New

Humana

Senior AI Technical Product Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$130K - $172K/yr

Hands-on prototyping: Build working prototypes and demos yourself with AI tools (for example ... Partner with engineers, data scientists, and designers to deliver against roadmap and milestones ...

New

Hoffer Plastics

Project Engineer

South Elgin, IL

$100K - $135K/yr

Identify sources for design, build and prototyping activities * Perform mold simulation analysis ... Bachelor's Degree in Engineering, Plastics Technology, or completion of a related apprenticeship or ...

Hoffer Plastics

Project Engineer

South Elgin, IL · On-site

$100K - $135K/yr

... build and prototyping activitiesPerform mold simulation analysis utilizing Moldex 3D. This does not ... Bachelor 's Degree in Engineering, Plastics Technology, or completion of a related apprenticeship ...

Humana

Senior AI Technical Product Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$130K - $172K/yr

Hands-on prototyping: Build working prototypes and demos yourself with AI tools (for example ... Partner with engineers, data scientists, and designers to deliver against roadmap and milestones ...

New

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsApprentice Prototype Build Engineer JobsApprentice Prototype Build Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Apprentice Prototype Build Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

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How much do apprentice prototype build engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice prototype build engineer in Chicago, IL is $23.43, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.84 and $28.70 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 most commonly searched types of Prototype Build Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Prototype Build Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Apprentice Prototype Build Engineer jobs near you

Tool and Die Apprentice

Wiegel Tool Works

Wood Dale, IL • On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Tool and Die Apprentice

Position Summary

The Tool and Die Apprentice Program at Wiegel Tool Works combines hands-on manufacturing experience with advanced technical education to develop highly skilled Tool and Die Makers. Apprentices receive paid on-the-job training while working with cutting-edge manufacturing technology and attending classroom instruction focused on engineering, tooling, and manufacturing concepts.

This five-year apprenticeship program provides apprentices with the opportunity to earn while they learn, gain valuable real-world experience, and complete their education debt free. Upon successful completion of the program, apprentices earn a nationally recognized Certificate of Completion from the U.S. Department of Labor and transition into a full-time Journeyman Tool and Die Maker position at Wiegel.

Program Overview

  • Five-year apprenticeship program
  • 10,000 paid hours of on-the-job training at Wiegel headquarters
  • Three years of debt-free schooling through the Technology & Manufacturing Association (TMA)
  • All TMA tuition and educational expenses paid by Wiegel
  • Full-time employment while enrolled in the program
  • Work schedule of 40+ hours per week, Monday through Friday
  • Required evening classes at TMA twice per week (3-hour sessions)
  • TMA schooling consists of two 14-week semesters per year
  • National Certificate of Completion awarded through the U.S. Department of Labor upon program completion
  • Opportunity to advance into a full-time Journeyman Tool and Die Maker role at Wiegel

Benefits

Apprentices are eligible for full employee benefits, including:

  • Health insurance
  • Dental insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Supplemental insurance options
  • Paid holidays
  • Vacation time
  • Retirement savings plan
  • Additional employee benefits and development opportunities

Why Become a Tool and Die Apprentice?

This apprenticeship is an excellent pathway toward a rewarding career in advanced manufacturing. Apprentices will:

  • Learn a highly skilled and high-paying trade debt free
  • Earn a paycheck while gaining hands-on experience
  • Work on live manufacturing programs and production tooling
  • Operate advanced manufacturing equipment and technology
  • Develop valuable technical and problem-solving skills
  • Gain exposure to multiple manufacturing processes and disciplines
  • Build professional relationships and networking opportunities within the industry
  • Obtain nationally recognized credentials and long-term career opportunities

On-the-Job Training Areas

Apprentices receive hands-on training in a variety of manufacturing and toolmaking applications, including:

  • Tool design
  • Jig boring
  • Turning and machining
  • Die machining
  • Electrode manufacturing
  • Plunge EDM
  • Wire EDM operation
  • Jig grinding
  • Die assembly
  • CNC machining
  • CNC programming
  • Wire programming
  • Polishing and finishing
  • Die maintenance and repair
  • Die grinding
  • Heat treat preparation
  • Hole popping
  • Layout inspection
  • Quality inspections
  • Sensor applications
  • Press room operations

Qualifications

  • High school diploma or GED preferred
  • Strong mechanical aptitude and willingness to learn
  • Interest in manufacturing, machining, and engineering
  • Ability to work in a team-oriented environment
  • Strong attendance and commitment to completing the program
  • Basic math and problem-solving skills
  • Ability to meet the physical demands of a manufacturing environment

Career Opportunity

The Tool and Die Apprentice Program offers a unique opportunity to build a stable, rewarding career in advanced manufacturing while gaining valuable experience and education without student debt. Apprentices graduate with nationally recognized credentials, extensive hands-on experience, and the opportunity for long-term career growth at Wiegel Tool Works.