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Proto Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Charm Sciences Inc

GRADE 3 MACHINIST

Lawrence, MA · On-site

$27.50 - $41/hr

Proto-Trak Millers and Proto-Trak Lathe, Surface Grinder, to fabricate tools, fixtures and Charm Sciences Products. * Excellent work ethic, professional work attitude and a desire/ability to self ...

Charm Sciences

GRADE 3 MACHINIST

Lawrence, MA · On-site

$27.50 - $41/hr

Proto-Trak Millers and Proto-Trak Lathe, Surface Grinder, to fabricate tools, fixtures and Charm Sciences Products. * Excellent work ethic, professional work attitude and a desire/ability to self ...

Arrow Technologies

Machinist - HIIM

Newport News, VA · On-site

$19.75 - $27/hr

Able to operate Conventional Boring Mill, CNC Vertical mill, Conventional Lathe, Conventional Turret Lathe, CNC lathe and TRAK Mill w/Proto trak Control and Conventional Engine lathe. * Read and ...

Arrow Technologies, Inc

Machinist - HIIM

Newport News, VA

$19.75 - $27/hr

Able to operate Conventional Boring Mill, CNC Vertical mill, Conventional Lathe, Conventional Turret Lathe, CNC lathe and TRAK Mill w/Proto trak Control and Conventional Engine lathe. * Read and ...

Swim USA

Technical Designer

Manhattan, NY

Responsible to evaluate and provide clear communication of pattern and sewing construction in various stages of proto and production process. Primary Duties and Responsibilities * Create illustrator ...

ALO

Senior Technical Designer

Commerce, CA

$105K - $115K/yr

You will also fit full size runs and be responsible for correcting the fit in multiple ways from Proto 1 all the way to PP (Pre-Production Fit.) Extensive experience in the fit room is a must. After ...

Centric Brands

Senior Technical Designer

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$7.80K/mo

Your role will involve overseeing and leading fit development from 1st proto to SMS stages, ensuring the garments meet both design and production standards. Seeking a collaborative team player ...

Swim USA

Senior Technical Designer

Manhattan, NY

Responsible for evaluating and providing clear communication of pattern and sewing construction in various stages of proto and production process. Manage assigned brands and meet deadlines to ensure ...

Millennium Power, Inc.

CNC Machinist

Westfield, MA · On-site

$21.50 - $29.25/hr

PROTO TRAK lathes and milling machines * Bridgeport machines * Haas and Doosan multi-axis machines * Read and interpret blueprints, technical drawings, and GD&T specifications * Program and edit ...

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Proto information

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$6

$41

$68

How much do proto jobs pay per hour?

As of May 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for proto in the United States is $41.52, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $31.97 and $49.04 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Prototype Engineer, you need strong mechanical or electrical engineering knowledge, hands-on fabrication skills, and a degree in a related field. Familiarity with CAD software, 3D printing technologies, and rapid prototyping tools is typically required, along with experience using lab equipment. Creativity, problem-solving, and effective communication help Prototype Engineers collaborate with design teams and address technical challenges. These skills ensure prototypes are developed efficiently, functional issues are identified early, and innovative solutions are delivered to support product development.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in prototype development roles, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals involved in prototype development, often called 'prototypers,' commonly face challenges such as tight deadlines, rapidly changing project requirements, and the need to iterate quickly based on feedback. To address these challenges, strong communication and collaboration with cross-functional teams—including designers, engineers, and product managers—are crucial. Embracing agile methodologies, maintaining clear documentation, and prioritizing tasks can also help ensure prototypes meet both design intent and functional requirements within project constraints.

What are Proto jobs?

Proto jobs typically refer to roles involved in prototyping, which is the process of creating early models or samples of products, systems, or concepts. People in proto jobs, such as prototype engineers or technicians, work to develop and test prototypes to evaluate designs, identify issues, and iterate improvements before mass production. These roles are common in industries like engineering, manufacturing, electronics, and product design. Proto professionals collaborate with design, engineering, and manufacturing teams to ensure that products meet specifications and are functional and manufacturable. Strong problem-solving, technical, and communication skills are essential in these positions.

What is the difference between Proto vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectProtoMechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsTypically no formal degree, focus on prototyping skillsBachelor's or higher in Mechanical Engineering or related field
Work EnvironmentDesign labs, workshops, rapid prototyping facilitiesDesign offices, manufacturing plants, R&D departments
Industry UsageUsed in early product development, prototyping, and testingInvolved in full product design, analysis, and manufacturing processes

Proto roles focus on creating prototypes and testing concepts, often requiring hands-on skills and rapid iteration. Mechanical Engineers have a broader scope, including designing, analyzing, and overseeing manufacturing. While both work in product development, Proto is more specialized in prototyping, whereas Mechanical Engineers handle comprehensive engineering tasks.

More about Proto jobs
What cities are hiring for Proto jobs? Cities with the most Proto job openings:
What states have the most Proto jobs? States with the most job openings for Proto jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Proto jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Proto jobs are:
Proto jobs near you
Infographic showing various Proto job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $86,362 per year, or $41.5 per hour.
Prototype Technician

Prototype Technician

CHAPARRAL BOATS INC

Nashville, GA

Other

Posted 10 days ago

Chaparral Boats rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

The Prototype Technician (PROTO) – Marine Manufacturing is responsible for building, modifying, and refining prototype boats and related components prior to production release. This role works directly with Engineering, Design, and Production teams to ensure new models and design changes meet company standards for quality, safety, fit, finish, and on-water performance.

This position requires advanced mechanical aptitude, marine systems knowledge, craftsmanship, and the ability to identify and communicate design improvements. The PROTO Technician plays a critical role in bridging engineering concepts with real-world manufacturability.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

  • Build complete prototype boats and sub-assemblies from engineering drawings, CAD prints, and design specifications
  • Install and modify marine systems including:
    • Electrical systems (12V/24V wiring, harnesses, lighting, instrumentation)
    • Fuel systems
    • Steering and control systems
    • Plumbing and livewell systems
    • Mechanical components and hardware
  • Perform fiberglass, gelcoat, rigging, and structural modifications as needed
  • Fabricate custom brackets, panels, and components to support prototype builds
  • Conduct fit-and-finish evaluations and recommend improvements
  • Assist with on-water testing and performance validation
  • Troubleshoot mechanical, electrical, and design issues
  • Document all prototype changes and provide detailed feedback to Engineering
  • Support pilot builds and transition to production
  • Ensure compliance with ABYC standards and company safety policies
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment

Qualifications

Education & Experience:

  • High school diploma or GED required
  • Technical or marine systems certification preferred
  • 3–5+ years of experience in marine manufacturing, boat rigging, or prototype fabrication

Technical Skills:

  • Ability to read and interpret marine engineering drawings and schematics
  • Strong knowledge of marine electrical systems
  • Experience with fiberglass repair and modification
  • Proficiency with hand tools, power tools, and shop equipment
  • Understanding of ABYC standards preferred
  • Basic CAD familiarity is a plus

Soft Skills:

  • Strong problem-solving ability
  • High attention to detail and craftsmanship
  • Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
  • Effective communication with Engineering and Production teams
  • Accountability and ownership of work quality

Physical Requirements

  • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs
  • Prolonged standing, bending, kneeling, and climbing in and around vessels
  • Ability to work in a non-climate-controlled manufacturing environment

Key Competencies

  • Quality Focused
  • Mechanical Expertise
  • Initiative & Innovation
  • Team Collaboration
  • Accountability & Reliability

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