ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Apprentice Prototype Build Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Hermeus

Tooling Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$138K - $187K/yr

... art of rapid iterative prototyping to build the fastest aircraft in the world today. By ... A Tooling Build Engineer on the Manufacturing team is responsible for the design, development, and ...

Hermeus

Tooling Engineer

Los Angeles, CA

$138K - $187K/yr

... art of rapid iterative prototyping to build the fastest aircraft in the world today. By ... A Tooling Build Engineer on the Manufacturing team is responsible for the design, development, and ...

Hermeus

Tooling Engineer

Los Angeles, CA

$138K - $187K/yr

... art of rapid iterative prototyping to build the fastest aircraft in the world today. By ... A Tooling Build Engineer on the Manufacturing team is responsible for the design, development, and ...

Radiant

Build Engineer, Turbomachinery

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$74K - $130K/yr

Responsible for assembly and integration of prototype and first-article turbomachinery. hardware ... Receive mentorship from senior build engineers while gradually taking on more responsibility.

Form Energy

Cell Build Technician, Prototype

Somerville, MA · On-site

$31.28 - $38.31/hr

As part of our Core Technology team, you will be part of the Prototype Build line, working in close collaboration with the Design and Manufacturing Engineers on our team. The ideal candidate will be ...

HADRIAN

Build Engineer, Capabilities

Torrance, CA · On-site

$76K - $98K/yr

The Role We are seeking a Manufacturing (Build) Engineer to support both early-stage and customer ... Experience transitioning products from prototype to scalable volume manufacturing. * Background in ...

Sbdinc

Prototype Technician Apprentice

Valley City, OH

$16 - $20.75/hr

Valley City, Ohio Come build something that matters. It takes great people to achieve greatness ... Operate mills, CNC controls, lathes, and metal equipment for engineering groups with prototype ...

Intuitive

Staff Software Build Engineer

Pittsburgh, PA · Remote

This role is for an experienced engineer who writes code, debugs real build failures, prototypes infrastructure, and scales systems through direct technical contribution. You will own core build ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsApprentice Prototype Build Engineer Jobs

Apprentice Prototype Build Engineer information

See salary details

$12

$22

$37

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

As of Jul 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice prototype build engineer in the United States is $22.74, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $27.88 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 are Apprentice Prototype Build Engineers?

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 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 cities are hiring for Apprentice Prototype Build Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Apprentice Prototype Build Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Prototype Build Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Prototype Build Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Apprentice Prototype Build Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Apprentice Prototype Build Engineer jobs include:
Apprentice Prototype Build Engineer jobs near you
Prototype and Development Manufacturing Supervisor

Prototype and Development Manufacturing Supervisor

Zone 5 Technologies

San Luis Obispo, CA • On-site

$104K - $118K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

At Zone 5 Technologies, we're redefining what's possible in unmanned aircraft systems. Our team of engineers and innovators is developing cutting-edge autonomous solutions that push the boundaries of UAS technology - solving complex challenges that matter.
We're building the future of UAS capabilities, and we're looking for exceptional talent to join us. If you're driven by hard problems, energized by rapid innovation, and ready to make an impact on next-generation flight systems, you belong here.
The Prototype and Development Supervisor leads day-to-day execution across prototype build and systems integration activities, ensuring development work is safe, disciplined, coordinated, and learning-focused.
This role owns people leadership, daily priorities, and execution flow across Development and Systems Integration technicians, while respecting technical risk authority held by senior technical staff.
This role involves working closely with various engineering disciplines, production staff as needed, and operations teams to support expected outcomes.
Key Responsibilities:
Development & Integration Execution
• Own daily execution across prototype build and systems integration work
• Coordinate priorities across Development and Integration to maintain a tight learning loop
• Ensure smooth handoff from prototype build → system integration → test
• Balance competing demands across multiple programs and value streams
People Leadership
• Directly manage Development and Systems Integration Technicians
• Set clear expectations, provide coaching, and address performance issues
• Support skill development and readiness for promotion
• Ensure staffing and coverage align with development priorities
Safety & Discipline
• Enforce safety procedures during powered, integrated, and flight-capable work
• Ensure development discipline (documentation, configuration awareness, escalation)
• Support stop-work decisions when safety or risk thresholds are exceeded
Cross-Functional Coordination
• Partner with Engineering to align execution with design intent
• Coordinate with Flight Test for readiness and scheduling
• Work with Manufacturing to support clean prototype → production transitions
Continuous Improvement
• Improve development execution cadence and predictability
• Identify friction in handoffs and remove blockers
• Support standardization without suppressing learning
Decision Authority
• Sets daily priorities and task sequencing
• Assigns work across Development and Integration teams
• Escalates technical risk decisions appropriately
• Recommends staffing and development actions
Required Qualifications:
• 5-8+ years in aerospace, UAV, robotics, or advanced development environments
• Prior experience leading technical teams (supervisor or lead)
• Strong understanding of prototype build, integration, and test workflows
• Proven ability to lead in ambiguous, fast-changing environments
• Strong communication and conflict-resolution skills
• Safety-first mindset
Pay range for this role
$104,000-$118,000 USD
What's in it for you:
Benefits:
  • Competitive total compensation package
  • Comprehensive benefit package options include medical, dental, vision, life, and more.
  • 401k with company-match
  • 4 weeks of paid time off each year
  • 12 annual company holidays

Why Join Zone 5 Technologies?
  • Innovative Environment: Work on cutting-edge technology that is shaping the future of defense and aerospace.
  • Collaborative Culture: Join a team of passionate professionals dedicated to pushing the boundaries of what's possible.
  • Career Growth: Opportunities for professional development and career advancement.

If you are passionate about unmanned aircraft technology and want to be a part of a dynamic and growing company, we would love to hear from you. Apply today and join the Zone 5 Technologies team!
In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire.
Zone 5 Technologies is a federal contractor and participates in E-Verify to confirm employment eligibility. As required by law, we will verify the identity and employment authorization of all new employees using the E-Verify system. Learn more about your rights and responsibilities under E-Verify: https://www.e-verify.gov.

Apply