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Prototype Development Engineer Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Gates

Development Engineer

Rochester Hills, MI · On-site

$90K - $105K/yr

Position Summary The Product Development Engineer - Electro-Mechanical Systems is responsible for ... through prototype build, testing, and production release. The ideal candidate combines strong ...

RESRG Automotive

Product Development Engineer

Troy, MI · On-site

Experience with prototype development and testing * Master's degree in Engineering or a related field * Experience with Exterior Decorative Automotive Body Parts * Experience with Nissan development ...

RESRG Automotive

Product Development Engineer

Troy, MI · On-site

Experience with prototype development and testing * Master's degree in Engineering or a related field * Experience with Exterior Decorative Automotive Body Parts * Experience with Nissan development ...

The Pond Guy

Product Development Engineer

Armada, MI · On-site

Do you enjoy taking a problem or opportunity, developing a solution, building prototypes, testing ... At The Pond Guy, our Product Development Engineer owns products throughout the development ...

ArcelorMittal

Product Development Engineer

Detroit, MI · On-site

Coordinate cross-functional inputs for prototype development, validation testing, program execution, and production launch readiness. * Manage multiple vehicle programs and engineering projects ...

ArcelorMittal

Product Development Engineer

Detroit, MI · On-site

$110K - $120K/yr

Coordinate cross-functional inputs for prototype development, validation testing, program execution, and production launch readiness. * Manage multiple vehicle programs and engineering projects ...

MillerKnoll

$17.50 - $22.75/hr

You'll work from sketches, engineering drawings, and 3D CAD models to fabricate high-quality prototype components and assemblies while meeting project schedules and development objectives. Serve as a ...

Millerknoll

Senior Prototype Fabricator

Holland, MI

$17.50 - $22.75/hr

You'll work from sketches, engineering drawings, and 3D CAD models to fabricate high-quality prototype components and assemblies while meeting project schedules and development objectives. Serve as a ...

MillerKnoll

Senior Prototype Fabricator

Holland, MI · On-site

$17.50 - $22.75/hr

You'll work from sketches, engineering drawings, and 3D CAD models to fabricate high-quality prototype components and assemblies while meeting project schedules and development objectives. Serve as a ...

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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.

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Prototype Development Engineer jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Prototype Development Engineer job openings:

Prototype Development Engineer jobs near you

Production Development Engineer

Battle Creek, MI • On-site

NexForm, Inc.
See more jobs at NexForm, Inc.external

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 23 days ago

Job description

Production Development Engineer
Production Development EngineerDepartment: EngineeringReports to: Lead EngineerLocation: Battle Creek, Michigan We're looking for a forward-thinking problem solver and change-maker ready to help take NexForm to the next level. The Product Development Engineer is responsible for the design, development, validation, and launch of new products from concept through production. This position collaborates with customers, manufacturing, quality, supply chain, and cross-functional teams to develop innovative products that meet performance, quality, cost, and manufacturability objectives. The Product Development Engineer serves as a technical resource throughout the product lifecycle, supporting engineering design, customer requirements, prototype development, product validation, and continuous product improvement. RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Lead engineering activities for new product development programs from concept through production launch.
  • Design products and engineering solutions that meet customer specifications and business objectives.
  • Evaluate product performance, manufacturability, quality, and cost throughout the development process.
  • Develop engineering documentation, technical specifications, and design standards.
  • Support engineering changes throughout the product lifecycle.
  • Create and maintain engineering drawings, Bills of Materials (BOMs), specifications, and technical documentation.
  • Utilize CAD software to develop and modify product designs.
  • Conduct design reviews and engineering feasibility studies.
  • Apply Design for Manufacturability (DFM) and Design for Assembly (DFA) principles.
  • Recommend design improvements to enhance product performance and manufacturing efficiency.
  • Serve as the engineering contact for assigned customer programs.
  • Participate in customer meetings, technical reviews, and product design discussions.
  • Support customer requests, engineering changes, and product validation activities.
  • Coordinate engineering deliverables to support program timing and customer milestones.
  • Develop validation plans and support prototype builds.
  • Coordinate product testing and analyze test results.
  • Participate in Advanced Product Quality Planning (APQP) activities.
  • Prepare engineering documentation supporting Production Part Approval Process (PPAP) submissions.
  • Support production launches and manufacturing readiness activities.
  • Maintain engineering records, specifications, drawings, and revision history.
  • Prepare engineering reports, presentations, and technical analyses.
  • Ensure documentation complies with company standards and customer requirements.
  • Support intellectual property protection and engineering document control.
REQUIREMENTS:
  • Minimum of three years of engineering experience in product development or manufacturing.
  • This position is onsite in our Battle Creek, Michigan location
  • Automotive manufacturing experience preferred.
  • Strong understanding of product development, engineering design, and manufacturing processes.
  • Experience in automotive soft trim and acoustic / NVH development is preferred.
  • Knowledge of APQP, PPAP, DFMEA, PFMEA, Control Plans, GD&T, and automotive quality systems.
  • Experience with CAD software (such as SolidWorks, CATIA, Creo, or AutoCAD) and PLM systems.
  • Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills.
  • Excellent project management and organizational abilities.
  • Strong written, verbal, and presentation skills.
  • Ability to manage multiple engineering projects simultaneously.
  • Ability to collaborate effectively with customers, suppliers, and cross-functional teams.
Who We Are NexForm, headquartered in Battle Creek, Michigan, is a vertically integrated manufacturer of engineered fiber solutions for automotive thermal and noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) applications. We design and produce lightweight, durable components for leading OEMs and Tier-1 suppliers, with operations in the U.S. and Mexico. Backed by Crest Rock, NexForm is focused on growth through innovation, expanded capabilities, and operational excellence. NexForm offers competitive compensation and benefits package (including but not limited to medical, dental, vision, Rx, life insurance, disability coverage, 401K and company match, paid holidays, tuition reimbursement eligibility, etc.) NexForm is an Equal Opportunity Employer At NexForm, we take pride in our diverse team. Our organization is made up of individuals from a wide range of backgrounds, races, beliefs, and experiences, all united by a shared goal of making a positive impact. We've seen firsthand the strength that equity brings and believe everyone should have equal opportunities to grow, succeed, and live with purpose. Unsolicited Resumes from Third-Party Recruiters Please note that, in accordance with NexForm Technologies policy, we do not accept unsolicited resumes from third-party recruiters. Any agency, individual, or entity that submits a resume without prior authorization does so with the understanding that Motus reserves the right to hire the candidate at its discretion without any obligation to pay a fee.

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