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Prototype Associate Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Associate Prototype Technician

Plymouth, MN · On-site

$23.80 - $34.90/hr

Constructs engineering samples and prototypes to specifications and requirements with direction ... Associate's degree or above with a minimum 0-3 years of experience. Knowledge & Skills: Special ...

All prototype lab team members are responsible for producing the required number of cells and ... Associate's degree, trade school, or equivalent experience required. Travel * Local Travel

Associates Degree in Machine Tool Technology or Equivalent Experience. * Understanding of testing procedures and methodologies. * Familiarity with general engineering practices of electrical and ...

Your insights will help refine designs for manufacturability, influence prototype development, and ... Associate's degree or other 2 year technical degree in related discipline and 3 years of related ...

Showing results 21-40

Prototype Associate information

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$31.5K

$133.1K

$314.5K

How much do prototype associate jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for prototype associate in the United States is $133,062.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,000.00 and $202,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a prototype associate?

A Prototype Associate is a professional who assists in the creation, assembly, and testing of prototype products or components before they go into full-scale production. They work closely with engineers and designers to build and refine prototypes, often using tools like 3D printers, CNC machines, and hand tools. Their responsibilities may include interpreting technical drawings, troubleshooting issues, and documenting findings to support the product development process. This role is crucial for ensuring that new products meet design requirements and function as intended before mass production begins.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a prototype associate?

To thrive as a Prototype Associate, you need strong mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and experience with assembly or fabrication, often supported by a technical diploma or relevant hands-on training. Familiarity with tools such as 3D printers, CNC machines, CAD software, and measurement devices is typically required. Problem-solving skills, adaptability, and effective communication help Prototype Associates collaborate with engineers and iterate on designs. These skills are crucial for accurately creating and refining prototypes that support product development and innovation.

What are some common challenges prototype associates face when moving from concept to physical prototype?

Prototype Associates often encounter challenges such as translating abstract design concepts into functional physical models, working within tight deadlines, and adapting to frequent design changes. Coordinating with design engineers and manufacturing teams to source appropriate materials and tools can also present obstacles. Success in this role requires strong problem-solving skills, adaptability, and effective communication to ensure prototypes meet both design intent and practical constraints.

What is the difference between Prototype Associate vs Product Development Technician?

AspectPrototype AssociateProduct Development Technician
Required CredentialsAssociate degree or equivalent, technical skillsAssociate degree or technical certification, hands-on skills
Work EnvironmentLaboratory, R&D facilitiesManufacturing, testing labs
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, R&D departmentsManufacturers, product companies
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The Prototype Associate and Product Development Technician roles share similar credentials and work environments, often working in labs or manufacturing settings within tech or product industries. While both focus on product creation and testing, Prototype Associates typically concentrate on developing and refining prototypes, whereas Product Development Technicians may handle broader testing and manufacturing support tasks.

What cities are hiring for Prototype Associate jobs?

Cities with the most Prototype Associate job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Prototype jobs?

The most popular types of Prototype jobs are:

What states have the most Prototype Associate jobs?

States with the most job openings for Prototype Associate jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Prototype Associate jobs?

For Prototype Associate jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Prototype Associate job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 28% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $133,062 per year, or $64 per hour.

Prototype Fabrication Specialist

Dayton, OH • On-site

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Job Description SummaryThe Prototype Fabrication Specialist will build, rework, repair, and test prototype aircraft generators, power conversion boxes, and wiring harnesses in a development and lab environment. This role supports new product introduction and technology maturation by converting engineering concepts and designs into high-quality hardware used in laboratory testing and demonstration. Position is located at the EPISCenter in Dayton, OHJob Description

Roles and Responsibilities

  • Prototype build, rework, and repair

    • Build, rework, and repair prototype aircraft generators, including stators, rotors, and associated subassemblies.

    • Build, rework, and repair power conversion boxes and related electro-mechanical assemblies.

    • Fabricate, assemble, and rework wiring and cable harnesses to support prototype systems and test setups.

    • Perform hands-on assembly, integration, and troubleshooting of prototype hardware in an R&D and lab environment.

  • Installation, test, and support equipment

    • Install, instrument, and prepare prototype hardware for laboratory and rig testing.

    • Build, install, and test support equipment, including but not limited to circuit boards, cable harnesses, test fixtures, and hydraulic or pneumatic support systems.

    • Operate standard lab and shop equipment (hand tools, power tools, meters, oscilloscopes, test stands) to support development testing.

  • Technical interpretation and execution

    • Read, interpret, and apply electrical schematics, mechanical drawings, assembly drawings, and wiring diagrams to complete assigned tasks.

    • Leverage prior designs, build records, and best practices where appropriate to improve quality and efficiency.

    • Provide feedback to engineers and designers on design-for-assembly, manufacturability, and serviceability based on hands-on build experience.

  • Collaboration, communication, and documentation

    • Communicate status, technical issues, and risks clearly and promptly to project leaders, engineers, and management.

    • Work closely with engineering, test, and manufacturing teams to clarify requirements and resolve technical issues.

    • Document build steps, test setups, test results, and nonconformances in accordance with internal procedures.

    • Maintain accurate records, travelers, and build logs to ensure traceability and repeatability.

  • Safety, quality, delivery, and cost

    • Follow all safety procedures, lab practices, and EHS requirements when working with high voltage, rotating machinery, and test equipment.

    • Ensure work is performed on schedule, within budget, and to required quality standards.

    • Support continuous improvement activities in the lab, including 5S, standard work, and process improvements.

Required Qualifications

  • Associate's Degree in a technical field (electro-mechanical, electronics, industrial, or related) from an accredited institution and a minimum of 2 years of experience in electro-mechanical equipment fabrication, troubleshooting, or maintenance;

  • Or a high school diploma or GED with a minimum of 4 years of military or industrial experience in electro-mechanical equipment fabrication, troubleshooting, or maintenance.

Desired Characteristics

  • Hands-on electro-mechanical experience in the fabrication, design, development, or maintenance of power generation equipment (generators, motors, alternators, or similar rotating machinery).

  • Familiarity with IPC standards such as IPC-J-STD, IPC-610, and IPC-620 for soldering and cable or harness assembly.

  • Ability to organize, clarify, and interpret technical requirements from drawings, specifications, and procedures.

  • Technical writing experience, including the ability to document build procedures, test setups, and test results clearly.

  • Experience using AutoCAD or other CAD tools to review drawings, mark up changes, or support simple layout updates.

  • Strong oral and written communication skills with a demonstrated ability to work effectively in a cross-functional team environment.

  • Proficiency with MS Office tools (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook) for reporting and communication.

  • Light machining and sheet metal experience (drilling, tapping, cutting, basic fixture fabrication) preferred.

  • Motor or generator winding experience is a strong plus.

  • Demonstrated hands-on, shop-floor mindset with high attention to detail and a focus on safety and quality.

This role requires access to U.S. export-controlled information. Therefore, employment will be contingent upon the ability to prove that you meet the status of a U.S. Person as one of the following: U.S. lawful permanent resident, U.S. Citizen, have been granted asylee or refugee status (i.e., a protected individual under the Immigration and Naturalization Act, 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3)).

Additional Information

GE Aerospace offers a great work environment, professional development, challenging careers, and competitive compensation. GE Aerospace is anEqual Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national or ethnic origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by law.

GE Aerospace will only employ those who are legally authorized to work in the United States for this opening. Any offer of employment is conditioned upon the successful completion of a drug screen (as applicable). Employees may also be subject to random and reasonable-suspicion drug and alcohol testing.


Relocation Assistance Provided: No