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Prototype Development Engineer Jobs in Canton, MI

Jobtailor

Mechatronic Systems Supervisor

Dearborn, MI · On-site

Requirements Development * Mechatronic Systems Engineering * Prototype Development * Test Plan Development * Systems/Requirements Traceability * Functional Safety Cross-Validation * Agile/JIRA ...

Actalent

Software Integration Engineer

Ann Arbor, MI

$101K - $137K/yr

Flash development and release software onto prototype and pre-production vehicles across multiple ... Use engineering tools to capture logs, monitor vehicle behavior, and document observed issues and ...

Actalent

Software Integration Engineer

Ann Arbor, MI

$101K - $137K/yr

Flash development and release software onto prototype and pre-production vehicles across multiple ... Use engineering tools to capture logs, monitor vehicle behavior, and document observed issues and ...

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Prototype Development Engineer information

See Canton, MI salary details

$45.4K

$89.1K

$142.3K

How much do prototype development engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for prototype development engineer in Canton, MI is $89,111.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $73,700.00 and $98,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 near Canton, MI are hiring for Prototype Development Engineer jobs?

Cities near Canton, MI with the most Prototype Development Engineer job openings:

Prototype Development Engineer jobs near you

Restraints Electronics Module Development Engineer

Dearborn, MI • On-site

Ford Motor Company
Motor Vehicle Manufacturing • 10K+ employees
Learn more about Ford Motor Companyexternal

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago

Ford Motor Company rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 529 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description


We made history and now we work to transform the future - for our customers, our communities and our families. You'll see your work on the road every day, helping people move freely and pursue their dreams. At Ford, you can build more than vehicles. Come build what matters.
In this position...
Product Development Engineer to support current and future Ford vehicle models responsible for the design and release and program application work for Passive Safety Electronics, Restraints Control Module and Crash sensors. Closely work with full-service suppliers to release hardware, software and calibration on time with highest quality.
Responsibilities
What you'll do...
  • Responsible for the Design and Release and Program Application work for Passive Safety Electronics system.
  • Stay in sync with Program cost, weight, quality, performance and timing targets
  • Ensure components are accurately packaged for each vehicle application
  • Understand and apply Global Product Development System process
  • Familiar with Ford processes (e.g. WERS, IVS, FEDE, JFROG, VSEM, JIRA, etc.)
  • Follow Robustness Engineering Disciplines (e.g. Quality History, P-Diagram, FMEA, etc.)
  • Apply Six-Sigma, 3L5W and 8D issue resolution processes
  • Conduct Design Validation at the breadboard, HIL, bench simulation and in vehicle
  • Sign off on Compliance Demonstration Plan and Report
  • Support the Sourcing Process (e.g. investment, piece price, tooling cost reviews, etc.)
  • Follow the Technical Design Review process
  • Release parts through the product life cycle
  • Support Change Control meetings
  • Audit and update Bill of Material with accurate part levels and usage, for all builds and post Job 1
  • Be aware of Worldwide Engineering changes and proceed accordingly
  • Identify validation, durability and functional test requirements
  • Define and verify engineering prototype requirements at part level
  • Parts implementation/sign-off in assembly plant and assistance with quality issues in all Milestones
  • Review/manage program direction letter revisions and proceed accordingly if affected
  • Support prototype and vehicle launch
  • Provide technical assistance to supplier through the supplier engagement process
  • Participate in core activities based on skills, knowledge and desire

Qualifications
You'll have...
  • Bachelor's degree in engineering
  • 3+ years of experience in automotive industry
  • 1+ year of experience with product development

Even better, you may have...
  • Strong understanding and application of engineering subject areas (e.g. engineering specifications, design validation, failure mode analysis, 8D, six sigma, etc.)
  • Highly motivated, extremely proactive, substantial attention to detail
  • Excellent team skills
  • Ability to quickly learn the job (with mentoring from others)
  • Ability to clearly and concisely communicate and interact with others, both oral and written
  • Ability to work with many activities and champion issue resolution
  • Knowledgeable in using AI tools, software coding and analyzing
  • Understanding of circuit design and worst-case circuit analysis
  • Knowledgeable about signal transfer and mechanical-electrical interfaces
  • Experience in Passive safety systems, Event Data Recorder
  • CAD packaging experience and/or experience in 3DX, CATIA and Team Center
  • Operational knowledge of desktop productivity and CAD software
  • Detailed understanding of vehicle electrical systems and electrical design/development process
  • Familiar with CAN networking tools, diagnostic protocols and trouble shooting
  • Knowledgeable about safety targets, deployable devices and safety functionality
  • Understanding of production processes
  • Understanding/experience with the design and development of automotive electrical features

You may not check every box, or your experience may look a little different from what we've outlined, but if you think you can bring value to Ford Motor Company, we encourage you to apply!
As an established global company, we offer the benefit of choice. You can choose what your Ford future will look like: will your story span the globe, or keep you close to home? Will your career be a deep dive into what you love, or a series of new teams and new skills? Will you be a leader, a changemaker, a technical expert, a culture builder...or all of the above? No matter what you choose, we offer a work life that works for you, including:
  • Immediate medical, dental, vision and prescription drug coverage
  • Flexible family care days, paid parental leave, new parent ramp-up programs, subsidized back-up child care and more
  • Family building benefits including adoption and surrogacy expense reimbursement, fertility treatments, and more
  • Vehicle discount program for employees and family members and management leases
  • Tuition assistance
  • Established and active employee resource groups
  • Paid time off for individual and team community service
  • A generous schedule of paid holidays, including the week between Christmas and New Year's Day
  • Paid time off and the option to purchase additional vacation time.

This position is a salary grade 7 and ranges from $99,600-$166,600.
Final determination of salary grade will be based on candidate's skills and experience, and base salary will be set within the applicable range according to job scope, responsibility and competitive market value.
For more information on salary and benefits, click here: https://fordcareers.co/GSR
Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.
Candidates for positions with Ford Motor Company must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Verification of employment eligibility will be required at the time of hire.
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, age, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability status or protected veteran status. In the United States, if you need a reasonable accommodation for the online application process due to a disability, please call 1-888-336-0660.
This position is hybrid. Candidates who are in commuting distance to a Ford hub location may be required to be onsite four or more days per week. #LI-Hybrid #LI-DP1

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