ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Automotive Prototype Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Protingent

Prototype Build Technician

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$45 - $60/hr

Must have: * 5+ years of hands-on technical experience in mechanical, electrical, computer, automotive, or robotics industries * Demonstrated ability to assemble prototypes, build wiring harnesses ...

CDM Technology

Be Seen First

Prototype Industrial Technician

Carlsbad, CA · On-site

$25 - $32/hr

... systems, automotive, aerospace, robotics, medical device, heavy equipment, or similar technical ... Experience supporting prototype or low-volume manufacturing. * Experience with mechanical ...

New

fng

Foundry

Warren, MI · On-site

$16.25 - $21/hr

Extensive knowledge of Foundry operations and Automotive Prototype Die Development * Must be able to operate the following pieces of machinery: * 90*, 5", & 7" Grinders * Air Sand Rammer * Band Saw

fng

Quality Team Leader

Warren, MI

Extensive working knowledge of Automotive Prototype Sheet Metal Stampings, GD&T, and blue print reading. * Must possess intermediate math skills. * Must be able to operate the following pieces of ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsAutomotive Prototype Jobs

Automotive Prototype information

See salary details

$15

$26

$50

How much do automotive prototype jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for automotive prototype in the United States is $26.11, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.19 and $27.64 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working on automotive prototypes, and how can they be managed?

Professionals working on automotive prototypes often encounter challenges such as tight project deadlines, rapidly changing design specifications, and the need to coordinate with multidisciplinary teams. Managing these challenges typically involves strong communication skills, adaptability, and meticulous attention to detail. Collaboration with engineers, designers, and manufacturing teams is essential to quickly resolve issues and ensure the prototype meets required standards. Staying organized and proactive in problem-solving can help streamline the process and lead to successful project outcomes.

What are automotive prototype jobs?

Automotive prototype jobs involve working on the design, development, building, and testing of prototype vehicles or vehicle components before they go into mass production. Professionals in these roles may work with engineers to create and assemble early models, test functionality and safety, and provide feedback for improvements. These jobs are crucial in the automotive industry to ensure that new designs meet performance, safety, and regulatory standards before reaching the market.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Automotive Prototype Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Automotive Prototype Engineer, you need a strong background in mechanical or automotive engineering, hands-on fabrication skills, and experience with prototype development, often supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with CAD software, rapid prototyping tools, and automotive diagnostic systems is typically required, along with certifications like Six Sigma or specialized safety training. Creativity, problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are essential soft skills in this role. These abilities enable engineers to efficiently turn concepts into functional prototypes, troubleshoot issues, and contribute to innovative vehicle development.

What is the difference between Automotive Prototype vs Automotive Design Engineer?

AspectAutomotive PrototypeAutomotive Design Engineer
Primary FocusBuilding and testing physical vehicle prototypesDesigning vehicle components and systems
Required SkillsHands-on engineering, CAD, prototyping techniquesCAD, vehicle design, engineering principles
Work EnvironmentPrototyping labs, manufacturing facilitiesDesign studios, engineering offices
CertificationsEngineering degrees, CAD certificationsEngineering degrees, CAD certifications

Automotive Prototype specialists focus on creating and testing physical vehicle models to evaluate design and functionality, while Automotive Design Engineers concentrate on developing vehicle concepts and detailed designs. Both roles require engineering knowledge and CAD skills, but prototypes are more hands-on with physical testing, whereas design engineers work primarily in design and planning stages.

More about Automotive Prototype jobs
What cities are hiring for Automotive Prototype jobs? Cities with the most Automotive Prototype job openings:
What states have the most Automotive Prototype jobs? States with the most job openings for Automotive Prototype jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Automotive Prototype jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Automotive Prototype jobs are:
Automotive Prototype jobs near you
Infographic showing various Automotive Prototype job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $54,312 per year, or $26.1 per hour.
Vehicle Engineering Technician, Prototype

Vehicle Engineering Technician, Prototype

Recar

Troy, MI

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

ABOUT SLATE

At Slate, we're building safe, reliable vehicles that people can afford, personalize and love-and doing it here in the USA as part of our commitment to reindustrialization. The spirit of DIY and customization runs throughout every element of a Slate, because people should have control over how their trucks look, feel, and represent them.

WHO WE ARE LOOKING FOR

Slate is looking for an energetic, organized, experienced Vehicle Engineering Technician, Prototype to join our team.

The Vehicle Engineer Technician, Prototype plays an integral role with the Engineering team throughout product development and through launch. As a member of the Vehicle Integration team, the Vehicle Engineering Technician, Prototype is responsible for the maintenance of vehicle prototype builds, diagnosis and rectification of issues with builds, fabrication of parts as required, and maintenance of other company vehicles.

The Vehicle Engineering Technician, Prototype will report to Senior Technician, Garage Services.

WHAT YOU GET TO DO

  • Assist in the development and build of engineering test vehicles.

  • Work closely with the Engineering department to develop and test solutions to a variety of technical problems.

  • Inspecting and modifying existing designs and prototypes.

  • Utilize CAD software to inspect designs and implement feedback from Engineers.

  • Conduct experiments, diagnostics, calibrations, and investigations under the guidance of Engineers.

  • Track open issues, communicate issues to all groups and set up meetings as required to close issues.

  • Analyzing operations and offering suggestions for improvement.

  • Collect data and create detailed reports on prototype build progress and concern tracking.

  • Maintain records and assist with presentations.

  • Fabricate components as necessary utilizing a variety of materials.

  • Maintain shop tools and equipment.

  • Provide input to improve efficiency of methods and processes.

  • Ensure shop safety guidelines are followed.

  • Work with the assembly plant to identify potential vehicle assembly issues.

  • Maintain a clean shop work environment.

  • Coordinate, maintain, and clean company fleet vehicles as needed.

WHAT YOU BRING TO THE TEAM

Must possess at least one (1) of the following qualifications:

  • Completion of an Associate's degree from an accredited college or university.

  • Completion of an Automotive Vocational Program from an accredited automotive training institution.

  • ASE Master Technician Certification.

  • Master Technician Certification from an automotive OEM.

Experience

  • 8+ years of experience as a Prototype Engineering Technician, preferably with Hybrid or Electric Vehicles.

  • Hands-on experience working on high voltage electric vehicles and systems, including high voltage diagnostic troubleshooting, testing, and knowledge of the ecosystem.

  • Previous experience with an automotive OEM is preferred.

Skills and Qualifications

  • Proficient in reading electrical schematics and understanding basic electrical theory.

  • Proficient in vehicle diagnostics and ECU troubleshooting on CAN and LIN buses.

  • Proficient in operating and maintaining various hand tools, power tools, shop equipment, and shop tools.

  • Proficient in fabrication of parts and components with a variety of materials.

  • Knowledgeable regarding Health and Safety protocols.

  • Previous experience with CAD and Polarion is preferred.

  • Previous experience with regulatory requirements is preferred.

  • Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to adapt to changing needs.

  • Excellent attention to detail, organizational skills, and time management.

  • Excellent written and oral communication skills, with the ability to participate in presentations.

  • Ability to collaborate and remain calm and professional in a fast-paced, team environment.

  • Strong computer proficiency, including Microsoft Office (Outlook, Teams, Word, Excel, PowerPoint) for data capture and writing reports.

  • Must have a valid driver's license.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

  • Must have the ability to travel (up to 10%).

  • Must have the ability to lift up to 35 pounds.

  • Must have the ability to stand, walk, and perform repetitive tasks for extended periods.

WORK HOURS AND SCHEDULE

The regular work schedule can be expected to be Monday to Friday from 7:00am EST to 3:30pm EST.

Flexibility may be required on occasion to accommodate project deadlines or special business needs.

OVERTIME POLICY

While the position may occasionally require additional hours, overtime will be limited and is subject to prior approval based on business needs. We strive to maintain a healthy work-life balance, and employees can expect their regular schedule to be consistent with minimal overtime requirements.

WORK AUTHORIZATION REQUIREMENT

Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States on a permanent basis. We are unable to offer visa sponsorship at this time.

WHY JOIN TEAM SLATE?

At Slate, we're fueled by grit, determination, and attention to detail. The start-up spirit of ingenuity and resourcefulness move our business forward. Team Slate fosters a culture of excellence, innovation, and mutual respect, and is motivated by shared principles.

  • Safety First

  • Delight Customers

  • One Team

  • Relentless Improvement

  • Fast, Frugal, and Scrappy

  • Respectful Collaboration

  • Positive Legacy

WE WANT TO WORK WITH PEOPLE THAT REFLECT THE COMMUNITIES IN WHICH WE OPERATE.

Slate is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, veteran status, marital status, parental status, cultural background, organizational level, work styles, tenure and life experiences. Or for any other reason.

Slate is committed to providing reasonable accommodation for qualified individuals with disabilities in our job application procedures. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, you may contact us at

slate-talent_acquisition@slate.auto.

Apply