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Prototype Designer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

CAD Designer/ Drafter

Lenexa, KS · On-site

$25 - $34.75/hr

Prototype designs are printed in 3D concept visualization and multi-phase testing. Desire to learn plastic injection molding and mold layout functions are required. Part of the design must be ...

CAD Designer/ Drafter

Lenexa, KS · On-site

$25 - $34.75/hr

Prototype designs are printed in 3D concept visualization and multi-phase testing. Desire to learn plastic injection molding and mold layout functions are required. Part of the design must be ...

Prototype ModelMaker (Part Time/Freelance) WovenWorks Global is a forward-thinking, design-driven ... You work closely with designers, engineers, and team leads, contributing to a shared goal while ...

Prototype ModelMaker (Part Time/Freelance) WovenWorks Global is a forward-thinking, design-driven ... You work closely with designers, engineers, and team leads, contributing to a shared goal while ...

Prototype Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$42 - $47.25/hr

Rapidly design and fabricate mechanical, electrical, and sensor prototypes to support research ... Document designs, test results, and build procedures to support knowledge transfer and design ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

Perform testing and data collection on prototypes and pre-production units to ensure quality and functionality. * Assist in designing tooling and documentation to support manufacturing processes.

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 ...

Additive 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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

Showing results 21-40

Prototype Designer information

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How much do prototype designer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for prototype designer in the United States is $40.70, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $29.57 and $52.88 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 cities are hiring for Prototype Designer jobs?

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

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Who are the top companies hiring for Prototype Designer jobs?

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Infographic showing various Prototype Designer job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $84,648 per year, or $40.7 per hour.

CAD Designer/ Drafter

Lenexa, KS • On-site

Splintek
Fitness and Sports Centers • 11 - 50 employees

$25 - $34.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 23 days ago


Job description

Description

We are currently seeking to hire a CAD Designer/ Project Engineer. Design of initial CAD models, feedback from testing, and various generation prototype phases. Prototype designs are printed in 3D concept visualization and multi-phase testing. Desire to learn plastic injection molding and mold layout functions are required. Part of the design must be conscious of cavity notams such as draft, flow, wall thickness, gates, venting, etc.; molding machine specs and capacities must also be considered.

Approved prototype designs will be programmed for CNC 3D surface machining. CNC programming and cutter path verification knowledge are necessary. Prototypes may be machined in various metals for true proof of concept. Basic knowledge of plastics and plastic mold interaction is required. Specific resin analysis is performed to determine characteristic values such as strength, geometry, and shrink.


Splintek is a Lenexa-based, made-in-the-USA manufacturing company in the business of providing high-quality healthcare products to Retailers, Professionals, and direct to consumers since 1996. Innovation, team-based, high energy, casual business environment. Splintek's mission is to enhance the quality of life globally by innovating healthcare products for better sleep, more comfort, and overall health. Please visit our website at www.sleepright.com


DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES / ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

  • Consult with and take direction from Engineering Management to prepare initial conceptual CAD designs of company products
  • Interpret the directions provided by management with an understanding of the customers' needs as well as the company's capabilities
  • Create designs in 2D and 3D through rendering, technical drawings, and assembled samples
  • Designs must address cavity notams such as the draft, flow, wall thickness, gates, venting, etc. as well as molding machine specs and capacities
  • Work with all departments as directed to ensure that proper interpretation of designs is executed into prototypes
  • Print prototype designs in 3D concept visualization for multi-phase testing
  • Review prototypes for quality, as well as the correct and complete interpretation of designs.
  • Communicate problem issues to the appropriate department
  • Seek feedback from testing and various generational prototype phases and incorporate the findings and change orders into upgraded designs.
  • Ensure efforts are following compliance with regulatory requirements
  • Adhere to the production schedule, prioritize diverse assignments, and meet assigned deadlines
  • Make suggestions to continuously improve existing processes to increase throughput, reduce scrap, decrease costs, and improve quality
  • Participate in the plastic injection molding and mold layout processes

Requirements

EDUCATION

REQUIRED:

  • Associate degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field, or equivalent experience

PREFERRED:

  • Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering

EXPERIENCE AND SKILL

REQUIRED:

  • Minimum of 2 years of CAD Designer experience
  • Cutter path verification experience
  • Basic knowledge of plastics and plastic mold interaction
  • Proficiency with SolidWorks, Master-Cam, and CAD/CAM software
  • The ability to work with mathematical concepts such as portability and statistical inference and fundamentals of plane and solid geometry and trigonometry. Must have the ability to apply concepts such as fractions, percentages, rations, and proportions to practical situations

PREFERRED:

  • 5 years of CAD Designer experience
  • Experience with Hurco machines and Win Max Controllers

**We are NOT interested in working with recruiters or employment agencies at this time. Please do not email about potential candidates.


WORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Vision: Use vision to read, write, type, operate office, electronic, and manufacturing equipment, and make fine adjustments.

Speaking/Hearing: Give and receive information through speaking and hearing.

Motor Coordination: Requires hands to operate equipment.

Lift/Carry: Regularly lift, push, and move up to 50lbs.

Environment: Office and warehouse environments may be dust, contain sharp edges, include areas that are not well lit, the floor may be uneven or cracked, and the facility may be subject to variations in temperature.