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Prototype Development Engineer Jobs in Arkansas (NOW HIRING)

Designs, develops, and improves new or existing products in assigned market segments, designing and testing prototypes for customer demonstrations. * May be involved in development and implementation ...

New

Demonstrate continuous learning and mastery of ABB engineering tools and problem-solving methodologies. * Prototyping Leadership - Define and execute prototype development strategies, including ...

Demonstrate continuous learning and mastery of ABB engineering tools and problem-solving methodologies. * Prototyping Leadership - Define and execute prototype development strategies, including ...

CAD DRAFTSMAN

Monticello, AR · On-site

$20.25 - $27.50/hr

Interpret engineering specifications, sketches, and instructions. * Assist with prototype development and design improvements. * Ensure drawings meet industry standards and manufacturing tolerances.

CAD DRAFTSMAN

Monticello, AR · On-site

$20.25 - $27.50/hr

Interpret engineering specifications, sketches, and instructions. * Assist with prototype development and design improvements. * Ensure drawings meet industry standards and manufacturing tolerances.

CAD DRAFTSMAN

Monticello, AR · On-site

$20.25 - $27.50/hr

Interpret engineering specifications, sketches, and instructions. * Assist with prototype development and design improvements. * Ensure drawings meet industry standards and manufacturing tolerances.

... development lifecycle, including requirements, design, prototyping, development, testing ... Support citizen developers and solution owners by establishing guardrails, providing technical ...

Evaluates new data analysis techniques to support prototype development. Collaborates with cross-functional partners (e.g., software engineering, category management) on prototypes and algorithms.

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Prototype Development Engineer information

What does a prototype development engineer do?

A Prototype Development Engineer is responsible for designing, building, and testing prototypes of new products or components. They collaborate with product designers, engineers, and manufacturing teams to turn concepts into functional models. Their work involves using CAD software, selecting appropriate materials, and troubleshooting issues that arise during development. The goal is to evaluate and refine ideas before mass production to ensure the product meets performance, safety, and quality standards.

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

To thrive as a Prototype Development Engineer, you need strong engineering fundamentals, hands-on fabrication skills, and a degree in mechanical, electrical, or related engineering fields. Familiarity with CAD software, rapid prototyping tools like 3D printers, and experience with testing equipment are typically required. Creative problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective communication are essential soft skills in this role. These abilities ensure prototypes are innovative, functional, and aligned with project goals, driving successful development cycles.

What are some common challenges prototype development engineers face when transitioning from concept to functional prototype?

Prototype Development Engineers often encounter challenges such as translating abstract design concepts into practical, manufacturable prototypes within tight timelines. Balancing innovative ideas with material limitations, cost constraints, and technical feasibility can be demanding. Additionally, effective collaboration with design, manufacturing, and testing teams is crucial to quickly resolve unforeseen issues and iterate on solutions. Staying adaptable and maintaining clear communication helps overcome these obstacles and ensures successful prototype delivery.

What is the difference between Prototype Development Engineer vs Mechanical Design Engineer?

AspectPrototype Development EngineerMechanical Design Engineer
Primary FocusCreating physical prototypes to test concepts and functionalitiesDesigning detailed mechanical components and systems
Skills & CertificationsPrototyping tools, CAD, materials knowledge, engineering fundamentalsCAD, mechanical design, analysis, certifications like EIT or PE
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, prototyping workshops, manufacturing settingsDesign offices, CAD labs, engineering departments
Industry UsageProduct development, R&D, manufacturingProduct design, mechanical systems, engineering firms

While both roles involve engineering skills and CAD proficiency, Prototype Development Engineers focus on building and testing physical models to validate concepts, whereas Mechanical Design Engineers concentrate on creating detailed mechanical designs and specifications. The roles often collaborate during product development cycles but serve different stages of the process.

Research and Development Engineer - Plastics Manufacturing - Base Salary to 110k/year - Little Ro...

Little Rock, AR

AllSearch Professional Staffing
Recruiting and Staffing Services • 11 - 50 employees

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 20 days ago


Job description

Research and Development Engineer - Plastics Manufacturing - Base Salary to 110k/year - Little Rock, AR

  • Our client, a well-established global manufacturing organization, is seeking a Research and Development Engineer to support new product development, product testing, prototyping, and continuous improvement initiatives within an industrial plastics manufacturing environment. This position will work in a technically advanced laboratory setting supporting product innovation, mechanical testing, material analysis, and manufacturing process improvement.
  • This is an onsite position with a flexible Monday-Friday day shift schedule in a state-of-the-art manufacturing and engineering lab environment.

Responsibilities:

  • Conduct research, testing, analysis, and validation for new and existing industrial plastic products
  • Support product development, prototyping, and continuous improvement initiatives
  • Design, model, and modify components and products using 3D CAD software
  • Develop and execute laboratory and mechanical testing procedures
  • Analyze product performance, testing data, and material characteristics
  • Prepare technical reports, testing summaries, and engineering documentation
  • Maintain laboratory notebooks and technical records supporting product development and patent documentation
  • Assemble, install, and test products, prototypes, and mechanical components
  • Operate, maintain, and calibrate laboratory and analytical testing equipment
  • Collaborate with Quality, Manufacturing, Production, and Product Management teams regarding product performance and process improvements
  • Ensure products and processes meet company and regulatory standards
  • Support manufacturing process validation and product quality initiatives
  • Provide technical support for existing and newly developed products
  • Participate in project planning, scheduling, and progress reporting
  • Assist with technical training and knowledge transfer initiatives
  • Travel occasionally to manufacturing facilities and customer locations as needed

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or related technical field
  • 3+ years of Research and Development (R&D) Engineering experience within industrial product manufacturing environments
  • Experience supporting mechanical systems, product development, product testing, or manufacturing engineering initiatives
  • Experience using mechanical and material analytical testing equipment including calipers, micrometers, gauges, and related measurement tools
  • Experience with laboratory testing, product validation, and technical documentation
  • 3D CAD modeling experience using NX, SolidWorks, AutoCAD, or similar software
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office including Excel, Word, and Outlook
  • Ability to travel approximately 15-20% to manufacturing facilities and customer locations

Compensation:

  • Base salary in the 85k – 110k/year range
  • Bonus potential eligible, up to 15%
  • Medical, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance
  • 401k with company match
  • Paid Time Off (PTO) and paid holidays
  • Educational assistance and career advancement opportunities
  • Technically advanced laboratory environment with prototyping, 3D printing, and machine shop capabilities
  • Stable global organization with continuous improvement and sustainability initiatives

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