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Prototype Designer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Ampa Inc.

Sr. Prototype Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$75 - $90/hr

Work closely with multidisciplinary engineering teams to support fast‑paced R&D projects, improve prototype designs and test methods, and adapt to evolving development priorities. What We're ...

Ampa, Inc.

Sr. Prototype Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$75K - $90K/yr

Work closely with multidisciplinary engineering teams to support fast-paced R&D projects, improve prototype designs and test methods, and adapt to evolving development priorities. What We're Looking ...

Apple

Prototype Fabricator

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$51.19 - $89.84/hr

You will work closely and frequently with researchers, designers, and engineers in a shared lab ... Because our prototypes serve internal research rather than production pipelines, the emphasis is on ...

Apple

Prototype Fabricator

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

... prototypes for interdisciplinary applied research ... If you are equally comfortable in the shop and at a whiteboard, and you thrive when a designer or ...

RivCut

Prototype Machinist

Union City, CA · On-site

The Prototype Machinist will inspect finished components, document measurements, and collaborate with engineers and project managers to refine designs and processes. Responsibilities also include ...

Observable Space

Prototype Machinist

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$95K - $130K/yr

We're building a state of the art prototyping facility to machine some of the world's most ... Collaborate closely with engineering teams to iterate on part designs in real time. * Help design ...

Observable Space

Prototype Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$95K - $130K/yr

We're building a state of the art prototyping facility to machine some of the world's most ... Collaborate closely with engineering teams to iterate on part designs in real time. * Help design ...

Physical Intelligence

Prototype Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$42 - $47.25/hr

We're looking for a Prototype Engineer, an engineering generalist who sits at the intersection of ... Document designs, test results, and build procedures to support knowledge transfer and design ...

Apple

Additive Prototype Fabricator

Sunnyvale, CA

$51.19 - $89.84/hr

You will work closely and frequently with researchers, designers, and engineers in a shared lab ... Because our prototypes serve internal research rather than production pipelines, the emphasis is on ...

Figure

Prototype Development Technician

San Jose, CA · On-site

$30 - $40/hr

Our humanoid robot is designed for commercial tasks and the home. We are based in San Jose, CA and require 5 days/week in-office collaboration. It's time to build. We are looking for a Prototype ...

New

Figure

Prototype Development Technician

San Jose, CA · On-site

$30 - $40/hr

Our humanoid robot is designed for commercial tasks and the home. We are based in San Jose, CA and require 5 days/week in-office collaboration. It's time to build. We are looking for a Prototype ...

New

SureFire LLC

Prototype Machinist I

Fountain Valley, CA · On-site

Collaboration with engineers and designers is essential to refine prototypes and troubleshoot manufacturing challenges. Ultimately, this role ensures that prototype parts are delivered on time and to ...

New

Neros Technologies

Prototype Shop Manager

Torrance, CA · On-site

$169K - $237K/yr

Partner with engineers on DFM: optimize designs for manufacturability, lead time, cost, and ... in a prototype, R&D, or high-mix fabrication environment (aerospace, robotics, motorsports ...

CRI Genetics

Product Designer

Redondo Beach, CA · On-site

Prototyping, Designing and collaborating tightly with software developers * Building a simple, trustworthy design system and visual language * Conducting usability studies and translating findings ...

Neros Technologies

Prototype Shop Manager

Torrance, CA · On-site

$169K - $237K/yr

Partner with engineers on DFM: optimize designs for manufacturability, lead time, cost, and ... in a prototype, R&D, or high-mix fabrication environment (aerospace, robotics, motorsports ...

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Prototype Designer information

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How much do prototype designer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for prototype designer in California is $40.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $29.18 and $52.21 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a prototype designer do?

A Prototype Designer creates early models or drafts of products to test functionality, aesthetics, and feasibility before mass production. They work with engineers, designers, and stakeholders to refine concepts using sketches, 3D modeling, or physical prototypes. Their role requires knowledge of materials, manufacturing processes, and design principles to bring ideas to life efficiently.

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

To thrive as a Prototype Designer, you need a solid background in industrial design, engineering principles, and rapid prototyping techniques, often supported by a relevant degree or equivalent experience. Familiarity with CAD software, 3D modeling tools, and sometimes certifications in design or product development are commonly required. Strong problem-solving abilities, creativity, and effective teamwork and communication skills set outstanding candidates apart. These abilities are crucial for quickly iterating on functional models that address design challenges and support cross-functional product development.

What kind of projects and teams do prototype designers typically work with?

Prototype Designers often collaborate with product managers, engineers, and designers to transform ideas into workable prototypes for testing and feedback. Projects can range from early-stage conceptual designs to refined models that closely mimic the final product, requiring adaptability and creative problem-solving. You’ll typically work both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team, encouraging open communication and quick iteration. The work environment is usually dynamic, with shifting priorities based on project needs and development cycles. This role provides a great opportunity to influence final product designs and work closely with a diverse group of professionals.

What is a prototype designer?

A prototype designer creates preliminary models of products, interfaces, or systems to test and refine ideas before full development. They often use design tools like Sketch or Figma and collaborate with engineers and stakeholders to ensure functionality and usability. This role requires strong visual and technical skills to translate concepts into tangible prototypes.

What are the most commonly searched types of Prototype Designer jobs in California?

The most popular types of Prototype Designer jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Prototype Designer jobs in California?

For Prototype Designer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Prototype Designer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Prototype Designer jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Prototype Designer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Prototype Designer job openings:

Prototype Designer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Prototype Designer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $83,540 per year, or $40.2 per hour.

Robot Prototype Technician

Physical Intelligence

San Francisco, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 23 days ago

Job description

Who We Are
Physical Intelligence is bringing general-purpose AI into the physical world. We are a group of engineers, scientists, roboticists, and company builders developing foundation models and learning algorithms to power the robots of today and the physically-actuated devices of the future.
The Team
Robot Prototype Engineering Technicians collaborate closely with robot design engineers to build, test, and refine early stage robots. In this role you will use skills with assembly, fabrication, electronics, and troubleshooting to build initial robot designs, identify design flaws for improvement in future design iterations, propose solutions for improvements regarding build, maintenance, and repair of robots. These technicians are part of the robot fleet team within the PI Hardware Organization.
In This Role You Will:
  • Fabricate and Assembly Robot Prototype Systems and Components: Build mechanical/electrical prototypes using tools, 3D printing, soldering, and machining. Review and understand mechanical drawings, electrical schematics, and wiring diagrams for prototype assembly.
  • Repair Robot Prototype Systems and Components:
    • Repair mechanical components such as actuators, motors, gearboxes, bearings, and moving parts that could fail or break in initial prototype designs.
    • Repair electrical systems including wiring, circuits, power supplies, sensors, and control systems that could fail or break in initial prototype designs.
  • Perform Basic Troubleshooting and Testing of Robot Prototype Systems and Components: Conduct basic functional tests and troubleshooting failures to engineering feedback to improve prototype designs. Perform tests on electrical systems using diagnostic tools, multimeters, oscilloscopes, and other specialized equipment.
  • Collaboration Effectively with Hardware Design Engineers: Work with engineering teams to iterate designs based on experimental results. Propose solutions to hardware design engineering team for ease of assembly, repair, and maintenance

What We Hope You'll Bring
  • 2+ years of prototyping technician experience
  • Assembly and disassembly skills on electromechanical systems - Proficiency with electrical systems/components (AC/DC motors, wiring, controllers) and mechanical systems/components (motors, gears, Bearings).
  • Soldering skills and harness/wiring skills
  • Proficiency in using CAD software to view design files (e.g., Solidworks, Onshape) and ability to interpret engineering drawings and wiring diagrams
  • Experience working with diagnostic tools, multimeters, oscilloscopes, and PLCs.
  • Strong problem-solving ability
  • Strong attention to detail
  • Excellent communication and teamwork abilities

Bonus Points
  • Proficiency with rapid prototyping tools and 3D printers
  • Experience with robotic systems
  • Associate degree in Electrical/Mechanical Engineering, Robotics, or a related technical field. A bachelor's degree is a plus.
  • Relevant certifications in electrical or mechanical systems (e.g., ASE, NATE, etc.)

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