ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Apprentice Prototype Build Engineer Jobs in Rochester Hills, MI

Actalent

Test Planning Engineer

Detroit, MI

Develop and maintain prototype build requirements, endurance test plans, and teardown schedules for ... Manage engineering numbers, part numbers, and ordering of parts required for development and test ...

General Motors

Senior Vehicle Systems Engineer

Warren, MI

$98K - $134K/yr

AV Systems Engineers support the definition, design, and development of continuously improving ... The Advanced Build team leads the org in developing and building latest in cutting edge prototype ...

Rigaku

Mechanical Engineer

Auburn Hills, MI · On-site

Support prototype build, optical alignment, integration, and verification test * Troubleshoot ... Document designs, analyses, test results, engineering changes, and design iterations Reasonable ...

Rigaku

Mechanical Engineer

Auburn Hills, MI

Support prototype build, optical alignment, integration, and verification test * Troubleshoot ... Document designs, analyses, test results, engineering changes, and design iterations Reasonable ...

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsApprentice Prototype Build Engineer JobsApprentice Prototype Build Engineer Jobs in Rochester Hills, MI

Apprentice Prototype Build Engineer information

See Rochester Hills, MI salary details

$11

$20

$34

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 Rochester Hills, MI is $20.93, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.91 and $25.67 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.

Apprentice Prototype Build Engineer jobs near you

Plant & Build Operations Manager

Mettle Ops

Madison Heights, MI

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago

Job description

Position Summary

The Plant & Build Operations Manager owns the full path from raw material to fielded product: plant and warehouse operations, build management across Mettle Ops and its subcontractors, and hands-on build engineering for prototype and first-article units. This is a combined role spanning three disciplines — plant/warehouse operations management, build/program management (BOM tracking, subcontractor and OEM coordination, delivery rate-and-flow planning), and prototype build engineering (build plan development, build readiness, and vehicle/kit delivery). The person in this role ensures product moves through manufacture, kitting, quality inspection, and delivery on schedule, on cost, and in full compliance with contract and safety requirements.

Key Responsibilities

Plant & Warehouse Operations

  • Manage daily plant and warehouse operations to ensure production and distribution goals are achieved.

  • Develop and implement operational plans that improve efficiency, productivity, and profitability.

  • Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and implement corrective actions as needed.

  • Ensure optimal utilization of labor, equipment, and warehouse space.

  • Coordinate production schedules with sales, procurement, and logistics teams.

  • Oversee receiving, storage, inventory control, order fulfillment, and shipping activities.

  • Maintain accurate inventory records through regular cycle counts and physical inventories.

  • Ensure proper inventory rotation and storage practices, and minimize discrepancies, waste, and product damage.

  • Optimize warehouse layout and material flow for maximum efficiency.

Build & Program Management

  • Progress, track, and report status of product Bills of Materials (BOM).

  • Track and progress open issues to closure across the company, OEM/customer, and suppliers.

  • Create and update build processes as needed and maintain precise documentation.

  • Work closely with engineering and hardware teams on order and delivery commitments; develop rate-and-flow plans as required.

  • Progress, track, and report status of product builds against the master build/delivery schedule.

  • Communicate build and delivery status to the customer, suppliers, and internal teams.

Prototype & First-Article Build Engineering

  • Own all prototype and first-article build activities from build creation and design through delivery.

  • Develop feasible build plans based on work scope, product specifications, test plans, and program timing.

  • Lead build-team readiness activities, ensuring all program deliverables are met.

  • Resolve issues affecting build quality, engineering design, build-shop readiness, part delivery, and timing.

  • Support development of documentation for product/vehicle commissioning and first article test (FAT) readiness.

  • Support cross-functional teams including engineering, quality, hardware, and program management.

Leadership & Team Development

  • Recruit, train, coach, and develop warehouse, plant, and build personnel.

  • Establish performance expectations and conduct regular performance evaluations.

  • Foster a culture of accountability, teamwork, and continuous improvement.

  • Schedule staffing to meet operational demands while controlling labor costs.

Safety & Compliance

  • Promote and enforce a safe working environment.

  • Ensure compliance with OSHA, environmental, and company safety regulations.

  • Conduct regular safety meetings, audits, and inspections.

  • Investigate workplace incidents and implement corrective actions.

Quality Assurance

  • Ensure products meet company quality standards and customer/contract expectations.

  • Partner with Quality teams to investigate and resolve quality issues.

  • Implement preventive measures to reduce defects and operational errors.

Equipment & Facility Management

  • Oversee preventive maintenance programs for plant and warehouse equipment.

  • Coordinate repairs and vendor services as necessary.

  • Ensure the facility is clean, organized, and operating efficiently.

Continuous Improvement

  • Identify opportunities to improve operational and build processes and reduce costs.

  • Lead Lean, Six Sigma, or other continuous improvement initiatives.

  • Utilize data to drive decision-making and improve operational and build performance.

Apply