ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Prototype Designer Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Gates Corporation

CAD Designer

Rochester Hills, MI · On-site

$31 - $37/hr

Design lab test fixtures, prototype components, and supporting hardware * Interpret engineering concepts, sketches, and requirements into detailed designs * Rapidly iterate designs based on testing ...

Gates

CAD Designer

Rochester Hills, MI · On-site

$31 - $37/hr

Design lab test fixtures, prototype components, and supporting hardware * Interpret engineering concepts, sketches, and requirements into detailed designs * Rapidly iterate designs based on testing ...

Digital Tool & Die, Inc.

Die Designer

Grandville, MI · On-site

$26 - $38/hr

... furniture, prototyping, appliance, and U.S. Military. Work with our internal simulation techs to ... A tool designer is also required to establish a bill of materials (BOM) for purchasing to use to ...

Digital Tool & Die, Inc.

Die Designer

Grandville, MI · On-site

$26 - $38/hr

... furniture, prototyping, appliance, and U.S. Military. Work with our internal simulation techs to ... A tool designer is also required to establish a bill of materials (BOM) for purchasing to use to ...

Collabera

MI · On-site

Creates annotated prototypes or wireframes of user interface designs that visually and textually communicate the behavior of a software application. Executes in standard design & wireframing tools ...

General Motors

In-Vehicle Designer

Warren, MI · On-site

You will partner closely with other designers, researchers, engineers, and business stakeholders to ... Create design deliverables such as sketches, drawings, mockups, animations, and prototypes to ...

General Motors

In-Vehicle Designer

Warren, MI · On-site

You will partner closely with other designers, researchers, engineers, and business stakeholders to ... Create design deliverables such as sketches, drawings, mockups, animations, and prototypes to ...

Collabera

UX Designer

Southfield, MI · On-site

Title : Sr. User Experience (UX) Designer Location : Southfield, MI Duration : 6 month (contract to ... Experience in rapid prototyping a plus Qualifications User Experience, Prototyping, Wire-frames ...

General Motors

In-Vehicle Designer

Warren, MI · On-site

You will partner closely with other designers, researchers, engineers, and business stakeholders to ... Create design deliverables such as sketches, drawings, mockups, animations, and prototypes to ...

ROUSH

Tooling Designer

Farmington, MI · On-site

Widely recognized for providing engineering, testing, prototype, and manufacturing services to the ... The Tooling Designer will work with multiple internal and external customers to create injection ...

ROUSH

Tooling Designer

Farmington, MI · On-site

Widely recognized for providing engineering, testing, prototype, and manufacturing services to the ... The Tooling Designer will work with multiple internal and external customers to create injection ...

ROUSH

Tooling Designer

Farmington Hills, MI · On-site

Widely recognized for providing engineering, testing, prototype, and manufacturing services to the ... The Tooling Designer will work with multiple internal and external customers to create injection ...

Trane Limited

Electrical Designer III

Grand Rapids, MI · On-site

$56K - $80K/yr

... prototype builds* ### Maintain bills of materials and engineering documentation* ### Develop ... technical designs to meet project and product requirements* ### Design electrical systems ...

previous page

Showing results 41-60

All JobsPrototype Designer JobsPrototype Designer Jobs in Michigan

Prototype Designer information

See Michigan salary details

$23

$35

$60

How much do prototype designer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for prototype designer in Michigan is $35.47, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.77 and $46.11 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 Michigan?

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

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

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

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

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

Prototype Designer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Prototype Designer job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $73,779 per year, or $35.5 per hour.

CAD Designer

Rochester Hills, MI • On-site

Gates Corporation
Industrial Automation Equipment Manufacturing • 10K+ employees
Learn more about Gates Corporationexternal

$31 - $37/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 29 days ago

Gates Corporation rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Are you inspired by challenging the status quo? Do you thrive in collaborative environments that drive results? If so, Gates could be for you.

Gates is a leading manufacturer of application-specific fluid power and power transmission solutions. We push the boundaries of material science to engineer solutions that continually exceed customer expectations.

Let's simplify it, think belts and hoses. Found in motorcycles, conveyor belts, cars, tractors, blenders, vacuum cleaners, bicycles, & 3D printers just to name a few. Because why not do it all?

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

The CAD Designer is responsible for developing detailed 3D models and 2D drawings in support of laboratory testing, prototype development, and engineering programs. This role focuses on rapid iteration of designs, fixture development, and translating engineering input into manufacturable components.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Develop 3D models and detailed 2D drawings using CAD tools (Creo preferred; SolidWorks or equivalent acceptable)
  • Design lab test fixtures, prototype components, and supporting hardware
  • Interpret engineering concepts, sketches, and requirements into detailed designs
  • Rapidly iterate designs based on testing and validation feedback
  • Apply GD&T principles to ensure proper fit and function of components
  • Maintain accurate drawings, BOMs, and documentation within PLM systems (Windchill preferred)
  • Collaborate with engineers, lab technicians, and manufacturing partners
  • Interface with machine shops and suppliers to support prototype builds
Requirements and Preferred Skills

Education & Experience:

  • Associate's or Bachelor's degree in CAD, Mechanical Design, or related field
  • 5+ years of experience in CAD design in a lab, manufacturing, or product development environment

Required Skills:

  • Proficiency in 3D CAD software 
  • Working knowledge of GD&T and drawing standards
  • Understanding of mechanical design fundamentals, materials, and manufacturing processes
  • Ability to translate engineering requirements into detailed drawings
  • Experience managing drawings, BOMs, and revisions in a PLM system (Windchill preferred)
  • Strong attention to detail and ability to support multiple concurrent projects

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience with fixture design and lab/test environments
  • Hands-on prototyping or fabrication experience

Pay & Benefits

  • Full-Time
  • Hourly Rate: $31.00 - $37.00
  • Relocation is not provided
  • Medical, Dental, Vision insurance and other voluntary benefit options: benefits begin on the first day of the month immediately following your date of hire     
  • Eligible for 3 weeks of paid vacation + 11 holidays (9 scheduled & 2 floating) + 8 sick days. All vacation days are accrued 
  • 401(k): 3% company contribution and additional 3% company match
  • Tuition Reimbursement

Why Gates?

Founded in 1911 in Denver, Colorado, Gates is publicly traded on the NYSE. While we might operate in a vast amount of time zones we operate as 'One Gates' and have a common goal of pushing the boundaries of materials science. We invest in our people, bringing real-world experience that enables us to solve our customers' diverse challenges of today and anticipate those of tomorrow.

Work Environment

Gates is an Equal Opportunity and is committed to ensuring equal employment opportunities for all job applicants and employees. Employment decisions are based upon job-related reasons regardless of race, sex, color, religion, age, disability, pregnancy, citizenship, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, genetic information, marital status, or any other consideration defined by law.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to sit; use hands and fingers to work with objects, tools, or controls; and use office equipment including computers, telephones, and/or copiers/scanners. The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 10 pounds.  
For individuals assigned and/or hired to work in Colorado, Gates is required by law to include a reasonable estimate of the compensation for this role. This compensation range is specific to the State of Colorado and takes into account various factors that are considered in making compensation decisions, including but not limited to the candidate's relevant experience, qualifications, skills, competencies, and proficiency for the role.

#LI-JS2

What Gates Corporation employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply