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Prototype Designer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

suncast

Prototype Technician

Batavia, IL

$24 - $26/hr

Suncast Corporation is the leading US-based designer, manufacturer, and distributor of high-quality ... The prototype technician is responsible for supporting the model maker in all aspects of making ...

suncast

Prototype Technician

Batavia, IL

$24 - $26/hr

Suncast Corporation is the leading US-based designer, manufacturer, and distributor of high-quality ... The prototype technician is responsible for supporting the model maker in all aspects of making ...

Suncast Corporation

Prototype Technician

Batavia, IL · On-site

$24 - $26/hr

Suncast Corporation is the leading US-based designer, manufacturer, and distributor of high-quality ... The prototype technician is responsible for supporting the model maker in all aspects of making ...

New

Suncast

Prototype Technician

Batavia, IL · On-site

$24 - $26/hr

Suncast Corporation is the leading US-based designer, manufacturer, and distributor of high-quality ... The prototype technician is responsible for supporting the model maker in all aspects of making ...

AwardSpring

Product Designer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

If you've used AI prototyping tools to ship real interfaces, or you've been frustrated that your ... Every IC on this team - engineer, PM, designer, builder - ships features end-to-end in our codebase ...

AwardSpring

Product Designer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

If you've used AI prototyping tools to ship real interfaces, or you've been frustrated that your ... Every IC on this team - engineer, PM, designer, builder - ships features end-to-end in our codebase ...

AwardSpring

Product Designer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

If you've used AI prototyping tools to ship real interfaces, or you've been frustrated that your ... Every IC on this team - engineer, PM, designer, builder - ships features end-to-end in our codebase ...

Jobsbridge

UX Designer

Chicago, IL

Be it core Java, full-stack Java, Web/UI designers, Big Data or Cloud or Mobility developers ... sketch, prototype, and collaborate in order to build the best possible product Deliver user ...

Zen Educate

Senior E2E Product Designer

Chicago, IL

Moving faster from idea prototype live product * Owning more of the "how it works," not just "how it looks" * Reducing handoffs and increasing accountability * Treating design as a core product ...

Zen Educate

Senior E2E Product Designer

Chicago, IL · On-site

Our designers don't just define problems and create interfaces - they increasingly shape solutions ... Moving faster from idea - prototype - live product * Owning more of the "how it works," not just ...

Sidley

Senior User Experience Designer

Chicago, IL

$94K - $130K/yr

The Senior User Experience (UX) Designer will help define the next generation of AI-powered legal ... Use AI-powered design and prototyping tools (e.g., Claude Code, Claude, and other code- and AI ...

Tachyon Technologies

UX Designer

Chicago, IL · On-site

End-to-end product UX design: interaction design, visual design, prototyping, and user journeys demonstrated through a portfolio. * Experience designing complex workflow or data-heavy enterprise ...

New

International Paper

Structural Designer

Aurora, IL · On-site

$57K - $76K/yr

Create prototypes, samples, engineering drawings, and specifications for customer review and approval. * Assist in optimizing designs for manufacturability, assembly efficiency, transportation, and ...

International Paper Company

Structural Designer

Aurora, IL · On-site

$57K - $76K/yr

Create prototypes, samples, engineering drawings, and specifications for customer review and approval. * Assist in optimizing designs for manufacturability, assembly efficiency, transportation, and ...

suncast

Designer- Industrial_28C1

Batavia, IL

$75K - $85K/yr

Suncast Corporation is the leading US-based designer, manufacturer, and distributor of high-quality ... Work with in-house model maker to create prototype parts and models via CNC-machining and 3D ...

Suncast

Designer- Industrial_28C1

Batavia, IL · On-site

$75K - $85K/yr

Suncast Corporation is the leading US-based designer, manufacturer, and distributor of high-quality ... Work with in-house model maker to create prototype parts and models via CNC-machining and 3D ...

suncast

Designer- Industrial_28C1

Batavia, IL

$75K - $85K/yr

Suncast Corporation is the leading US-based designer, manufacturer, and distributor of high-quality ... Work with in-house model maker to create prototype parts and models via CNC-machining and 3D ...

smartdept. inc.

Digital Product Designer

Chicago, IL · On-site

smartdept. is searching for a Digital Product Designer for a travel and hospitality industry client ... Experience with interactive prototyping tools (e.g., Make, Figma advanced prototyping, or Figma-to ...

Zynga

Principal Experience Designer

Chicago, IL

Create user flows, interface wireframes, prototypes, and design documentation. * Bring solutions ... Experienced in designing for games vs. task completion, specifically supporting fun and engagement.

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Prototype Designer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$27

$41

$71

How much do prototype designer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for prototype designer in Chicago, IL is $41.92, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $30.48 and $54.47 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Prototype Designer position, and why are they important?

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 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 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 are the most commonly searched types of Prototype Designer jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Prototype Designer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Prototype Designer jobs in Chicago, IL? For Prototype Designer jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Prototype Designer jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Prototype Designer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Prototype Designer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Prototype Designer job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 92% In-person, 5% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $87,200 per year, or $41.9 per hour.

Prototype Technician

suncast

Batavia, IL

$24 - $26/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

Suncast Corporation is the leading US-based designer, manufacturer, and distributor of high-quality resin products for the home and industrial markets. A privately held company headquartered in Western Chicago, Illinois, Suncast prides itself on 35 years of innovation and sustainability across a wide range of product categories with materials proudly sourced in the USA. Everything we do is supported by the strength and ingenuity of American workers and we are committed to helping families across the country make the most of their unique spaces. We utilize state-of-the-art machinery and innovative manufacturing techniques to consistently engineer products of the highest possible quality.

Position Summary:

The prototype technician is responsible for supporting the model maker in all aspects of making prototypes and models and in the daily upkeep and organization of the model shop. This can include painting, sanding, ordering supplies, cleaning, running a 3D printer, and hand assembling prototypes.

Responsibilities:

  • Design Work with model maker to determine best prototyping method possible to achieve desired result.
  • Work with model maker to learn new methods of decorating or finishing the prototypes that conform with sales, industrial design, and engineering objectives.
  • Apply required surface finish to all prototypes.  This may include but is not limited to sand, paint, and sandblast techniques.  Operate pneumatic spray paint equipment and paint booths.  Learn to Mix and color match paints as needed.
  • Ensure that all materials used for models and prototypes are used and stored in accordance with manufacturers’ recommendations.
  • Ensure that Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) are available for all materials used for models and prototypes.  These must be received with the shipment of materials.  File these according to company policy by locating them in central storage area.
  • Read, understand, and follow MSDS at all times.
  • Maintain cleanliness of model shop and model shop storage areas.  Conduct twice daily cleaning of all model shop areas, including an end of shift inspection of all model shop areas.  Perform monthly re-organization of model shop storage areas to remove old or obsolete prototypes or project materials.
  • Develop a model shop supply list and place purchase orders as needed to maintain adequate stock of commonly used materials.
  • Support and comply with all Suncast safety policies, quality standards, and housekeeping methods always. 
  • Coordinate the packaging/crating of prototypes for shipment.
  • Perform additional duties as required.

Requirements:

  • Associate’s degree or completion of a two-year technical program preferred.
  • Hands-on experience with tools, equipment, painting, or fabrication strongly desired.
  • Ability to read technical documents and communicate effectively.
  • Basic math and strong problem-solving skills.
  • CAD/SolidWorks experience required; familiarity with CNC and 3D printing a plus.
  • Basic computer skills (Word, Excel).
  • Active role; standing for long periods and lifting up to 50 lbs.
  • Workshop/manufacturing setting with moderate noise; PPE required.
  • Flexibility to work overtime or weekends as needed.

The Anticipated Pay Range for This Position:  $24.00-$26.00 hourly

Suncast offers a comprehensive benefits package including:

  • Medical, Dental, Prescription Drugs, Vision insurance, Telehealth benefits
  • Group Term Life insurance
  • 401K with employer match
  • Paid vacation time off
  • Paid holidays
  • Short- and long-term disability coverage
  • Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) & Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) for health
  • Paid Parental Leave (maternity & paternity)
  • Tuition Reimbursement

All qualified applicants will be given equal consideration regardless of race, age, sex, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, color, religion, protected veteran status or national origin.

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