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Apprentice Prototype Build Engineer Jobs in Elgin, IL

AI Product Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$145K - $182K/yr

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

Senior Automation Engineer

Malta, IL · On-site

$97K - $128K/yr

Reporting to the Engineering Manager, the ideal candidate will collaborate with cross-functional ... Build and iterate physical prototypes using rapid prototyping methods (e.g., 3D printing, CNC ...

Senior Automation Engineer

Malta, IL · On-site

$97K - $128K/yr

Reporting to the Engineering Manager, the ideal candidate will collaborate with cross-functional ... Build and iterate physical prototypes using rapid prototyping methods (e.g., 3D printing, CNC ...

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 ...

Lead AI Technical Product Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

$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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

Project Engineer

South Elgin, IL · On-site

$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 ...

Project Engineer

South Elgin, IL · On-site

$100K - $135K/yr

Identify sources for design, build and prototyping activities * This does not contain every ... Bachelor's Degree in Engineering, Plastics Technology, or completion of a related apprenticeship or ...

In doing so, we will build a better tomorrow for our clients, our people, and our communities. The ... You will be expected to go from concept to working prototype in days, not months, while maintaining ...

Showing results 21-40

Apprentice Prototype Build Engineer information

See Elgin, IL salary details

$12

$22

$37

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

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice prototype build engineer in Elgin, IL is $22.48, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.12 and $27.55 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 cities near Elgin, IL are hiring for Apprentice Prototype Build Engineer jobs?

Cities near Elgin, IL with the most Apprentice Prototype Build Engineer job openings:

Tool and Die Maker Apprentice

OTTO Engineering

Carpentersville, IL

$18/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago


Job description

Tool and Die Maker Apprentice

Why join OTTO Engineering?

  • At OTTO, we don't just manufacture products - we engineer mission-critical solutions with precision and pride. Our Tech Center showcases cutting-edge technology with complete engineering capabilities for designing, building, debugging and maintaining short run tooling, to high speed, large volume stamping dies.
  • As a core value, we focus on delivering for our customers through innovative technology, superior quality, value, and responsiveness … as a result, our growth continues!
  • Employees are our greatest asset, which is why we share our company's profits to celebrate our collective success.
  • As a privately-owned company, we are proud to invest significantly in our community and in our own growth, focusing on long-term business success.
  • We are proudly American!

Specifically, we are seeking …

  • A willingness to excel in the machining / tool and die trade
  • Completion of an industrial technology high school program or equivalent
  • Good communication and organizational skills

Our Tool and Die Maker Apprentice will learn about metal stamping, die set-up, use all manual machines such as saws, mills, drill presses, grinder, lathes, wire EDM, and CNC milling.

The Apprenticeship Program consists of a three-year classroom (during the evening) and hands-on work (during the day) experience. The coursework will be taught by faculty through the Technology and Manufacturing Association (TMA) located in Schaumburg, IL and the hands-on work experience will be completed at the OTTO Tech Center.

The Tool and Die Maker Apprentice will:

  • Operate Tool Room equipment
  • Do maintenance on machines
  • Build and assemble new tools
  • Interpret tooling prints
  • SPC
  • Keep a clean and safe work area
  • Understand the operation of the press
  • Assist with other related duties as required or assigned

About you - What you'll bring to the table:

  • High school diploma
  • Completion of an industrial technology high school program or equivalent
  • Consistent attendance
  • Attention to neat appearance
  • Willingness to excel in the machining trade
  • Availability for nonstandard or extended work schedule
  • Good communication and organizational skills
  • Reach heights that may require a stepladder
  • Lift equipment up to 50 lbs.
  • Must be able to work in a quick paced environment

What OTTO offers for this specific position:

  • Hourly rate: $18.00 per hour
  • OTTO will pay for the TMA training and education.
  • Profit Sharing Bonus - OTTO believes that it's fair to share the profits that the employees help to make; profit sharing is distributed to employees twice a year. OTTO's profit sharing plan is paid at the discretion of the company and is not a guaranteed bonus or any part of a compensation plan.
  • Vacation: five days after 30 days of employment and 80 hours at 1 year - vacation time is earned on the anniversary date.

OTTO's Benefits:

Health:

Medical Insurance-

  • HMO Plan
  • Standard PPO Plan
  • Enhanced PPO Plan
  • High Deducible PPO Plan
  • FSA, LFSA, and HSA

Dental Insurance-

  • Base Plan
  • Buy-Up Plan

Vision Insurance

401(k) with a company match

Life insurance:

  • Life/AD&D
  • Voluntary Life/AD&D
  • Short-Term Disability
  • Long-Term Disability

10 paid holidays

Company picnic

Holiday party

AND numerous OTTO celebrations throughout the year!

To review all of OTTO's available opportunities, please visit our career page by clicking on the link below:

https://otto-engineering-inc.breezy.hr/

OTTO Engineering is an Equal Opportunity Employer: Disability/Veteran

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Request for Assistance / Reasonable Accommodation:

If you are a qualified individual with a disability or a disabled veteran, please let us know if you require a reasonable accommodation to complete any part of the online application process. You may request a reasonable accommodation if you are unable or limited in your ability to access job openings or apply for a job on this site as a result of your disability.

If you need an alternative method for applying, please contact OTTO Engineering via telephone at 847-428-7171 or email at HRDepartment @ ottoexcellence.com

These contact tools may be used only by individuals with a disability for accommodation requests; please do not inquire as to the status of an application.

OTTO Engineering does not accept unsolicited resumes from third party recruiters, agencies, or similar organizations; any submissions will not be honored.