ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Prototype Development Engineer Jobs in Houston, TX

Volta, LLC

Research & Development Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

Description The Research & Development Engineer designs, prototypes, tests, and validates innovative solutions for W-Industries' automation, electrification, power generation, and packaged equipment ...

Volta, LLC

Research & Development Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$95K - $143K/yr

Description The Research & Development Engineer designs, prototypes, tests, and validates innovative solutions for W-Industries' automation, electrification, power generation, and packaged equipment ...

W-Industries

Research & Development Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$95K - $143K/yr

The Research & Development Engineer designs, prototypes, tests, and validates innovative solutions for W-Industries' automation, electrification, power generation, and packaged equipment offerings ...

Lunar Resources

Pulsed Power R&D Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$152K - $159K/yr

Refine prototypes based on experimental results. * Perform LTspice modeling tasks. * Develop custom diagnostics from scratch. * Innovate with a logical, problem-solving approach. * Communicate ...

Lunar Resources

Pulsed Power R&D Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$152K - $159K/yr

Refine prototypes based on experimental results. * Perform LTspice modeling tasks. * Develop custom diagnostics from scratch. * Innovate with a logical, problem-solving approach. * Communicate ...

ClifyX

Team Liaison & Senior Developer

Houston, TX · On-site

The role involves identifying gaps in prototype development and enhancing it for production ... developers, dev ops, business team members, and IT • Python • Familiarity with Java • ...

Lunar Resources

Pulsed Power R&D Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site +1

$152K - $159K/yr

Refine prototypes based on experimental results. * Perform LTspice modeling tasks. * Develop custom diagnostics from scratch. * Innovate with a logical, problem-solving approach. * Communicate ...

ClifyX

Team Liaison & Senior Developer

Houston, TX · On-site

Job Summary : ClifyX is seeking a Team Liaison & Senior Developer to join their existing prototype development team. The role involves identifying gaps in the prototype and enhancing it for ...

Qcells

Senior Mechanical R&D Engineer

Houston, TX · Hybrid

$145K - $170K/yr

Senior Mechanical R&D Engineer Department: Tech Center - Product R&D Location: Houston, TX ... Perform hands-on testing of prototype products in laboratory and field conditions * Develop 3D CAD ...

SM-Energy Company

Senior AI R&D Engineer - AAET

Houston, TX · On-site

$180K - $220K/yr

SM Energy is seeking a hands-on AI R&D Engineer to explore, evaluate, and prototype emerging AI capabilities ahead of the mainstream. This individual contributor role sits in a small, two-person R&D ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsPrototype Development Engineer JobsPrototype Development Engineer Jobs in Houston, TX

Prototype Development Engineer information

See Houston, TX salary details

$46.8K

$91.8K

$146.6K

How much do prototype development engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for prototype development engineer in Houston, TX is $91,825.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,900.00 and $101,700.00 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.

Prototype Development Engineer jobs near you

Industrial Engineer - New Product Development

Houston, TX • On-site

Piping Technology & Products, Inc.
Oil and Gas Extraction • 501 - 1,000 employees
Learn more about Piping Technology & Products, Inc.external

$27 - $33/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago

Piping Technology & Products rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Description:

 New Product Development Engineer
Piping Technology & Products, Inc.
Position Title: Industrial Engineer – New Product Development
Location: 3701 Holmes Road, Houston, TX 77051
Department: Engineering
Reports To: Director of Projects & Engineering
Role Overview
The Industrial Engineer – New Product Development is responsible for leading the design, development, and introduction of new products for piping systems and related industrial applications. This role plans, schedules, conducts, and coordinates engineering work associated with product innovation, ensuring compliance with applicable codes, standards, and PTP design practices.
This position plays a critical role in driving innovation, improving existing product lines, and supporting business growth through the successful development and launch of new engineered solutions.
Key Responsibilities
• Lead new product development initiatives from concept through design, testing, and production.
• Plan, schedule, conduct, and coordinate engineering activities for new and existing product development projects.
• Ensure compliance with applicable codes, standards, and PTP engineering practices.
• Develop detailed product designs, specifications, and documentation.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including Manufacturing, Sales, Quality Control, and Purchasing.
• Evaluate product performance and implement design improvements as needed.
• Conduct feasibility studies, cost analysis, and risk assessments for new product concepts.
• Identify opportunities for innovation, product enhancements, and market expansion.
• Support prototype development, testing, and validation processes.
• Ensure smooth transition of new products into manufacturing and production.
Tasks
• Develop and review engineering drawings, models, and specifications.
• Coordinate prototype fabrication and product testing.
• Analyze test results and refine product designs accordingly.
• Work closely with manufacturing teams to optimize product design for production efficiency.
• Prepare and maintain product documentation, including bills of materials and technical manuals.
• Provide engineering input for project schedules, timelines, and forecasts.
• Participate in product review meetings and cross-functional discussions.
• Assist in preparing technical proposals and product presentations.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives for existing product lines.
 

Requirements:

Qualifications & Skills
Experience:
• 3+ years of experience in product development, design engineering, or industrial equipment manufacturing preferred.
• Experience with piping systems, pipe supports, or related industrial products is a strong plus.
Technical Skills:
• Proficiency in CAD software (AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or similar).
• Strong understanding of mechanical design principles and materials.
• Knowledge of manufacturing processes (fabrication, machining, welding).
• Familiarity with ASME codes and industry standards is a plus.
• Experience with CAESAR II (pipe stress analysis) is a plus.
Education:
• Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering or related field required.
• Master’s degree preferred.
• Equivalent combination of education, training, and experience considered.
Core Competencies:
• Strong problem-solving and innovation mindset.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines.
• Attention to detail and commitment to quality.
• Ability to take initiative and drive projects from concept to completion.
Why Join Us?
• Be part of a growth-driven innovation initiative within the company.
• Competitive compensation and benefits.
• Opportunities for career advancement in a growing organization.
• Work on impactful projects that shape new product offerings.
• Join an industry leader known for engineering excellence and customer-focused solutions.

What Piping Technology & Products employees say

Pay

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom