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Prototype Development Engineer Jobs in Tempe, AZ

Advantest

Thermal R&D Engineer

Chandler, AZ · On-site

We are seeking a Thermal R&D Engineer with handson experience in twophase cooling and ... This role focuses on the architecture, design, prototyping, and validation of closedloop ...

Advantest

Thermal R&D Engineer

Chandler, AZ · On-site

We are seeking a Thermal R&D Engineer with hands-on experience in two-phase cooling and ... This role focuses on the architecture, design, prototyping, and validation of closed-loop phase ...

WilsonCTS

Research and Development Engineer

Tempe, AZ · Hybrid

$55 - $58/hr

Develop and analyze solutions, prototyping one or more options to provide proof of concept. Apply ... engineering documentation, such as the Design History file. Follow R&D procedures like design ...

Acara Solutions

Advanced Systems Engineer

Scottsdale, AZ · On-site

$71.06/hr

Advanced Systems Engineer Location: Scottsdale, AZ Employment Type: Contract to Direct Industry ... Support hardware integration, prototype development, system test activities, and hardware-in-the ...

Innovative Health LLC

Sr. R&D Engineer

Scottsdale, AZ · On-site

$101K - $139K/yr

The Senior R&D Engineer role is responsible for designing, developing, validating, and implementing ... prototyping skills. • Self-starter and highly motivated. • Ability to have fun by motivating ...

Innovative Health LLC

Sr. R&D Engineer

Scottsdale, AZ · On-site

$105K - $145K/yr

The Senior R&D Engineer role is responsible for designing, developing, validating, and implementing ... Strong hands‑on prototyping skills. * Self-starter and highly motivated. * Ability to have fun by ...

Innovative Health

Sr. R&D Engineer

Scottsdale, AZ · On-site

$105K - $144K/yr

The Senior R&D Engineer role is responsible for designing, developing, validating, and implementing ... hands-on prototyping skills. · Self-starter and highly motivated. · Ability to have fun by ...

SpektreWorks, Inc.

Avionics Electrical Engineer

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$100K - $180K/yr

Support the transition of electrical designs from prototype development into repeatable production ... Support Engineering Change Requests and Engineering Change Orders. * Participate in design reviews ...

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Prototype Development Engineer information

See Tempe, AZ salary details

$46.9K

$92.1K

$147K

How much do prototype development engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for prototype development engineer in Tempe, AZ is $92,094.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $76,100.00 and $102,000.00 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

Sr. Prototype Technician, Prototype Build Vehicle Test & Integration

Coolidge, AZ • On-site

Lucid Motors
Manufacturing • 1 - 5K employees
Learn more about Lucid Motorsexternal

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago

Lucid Motors rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 37 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

The Test Technician supports automotive prototype vehicle development by assisting with test track operations, vehicle testing activities, and data analysis. This role works closely with engineers, drivers, and program teams to ensure prototype vehicles are tested safely, accurately, and efficiently while producing high-quality data to support engineering decisions. 

Role:

  • Test Track Support, Testing Support, Data Analytics Support 
  • Reports to the Manager of Engineering Operations 
  • This role is required to support the increased test load and increased test track expansion 
  • Key Performance Indicators will be generated for this role and consist of data reported along with project completion 
  • This position is a rare opportunity. This person will be exposed to various types of growth paths offering integration chances with test engineers, construction engineers, test drivers and multiple other groups. 

Responsibilities:

  • Test Track Support: Prepare prototype vehicles for daily test track activities, including pre-test inspections, charging readiness, instrumentation checks, and vehicle staging. 
  • Test Track Support: Monitor on-track activities and support safe test operations by identifying vehicle concerns, hazards, or deviations from approved test procedures 
  • Test Track Support: Coordinate vehicle movement, test asset setup, and track scheduling support to help engineering teams execute test plans efficiently 
  • Test Support: Document and report test observations, vehicle concerns, failures, and anomalies, then communicate findings to engineering teams for investigation and resolution. 
  • Test Support: Execute vehicle test procedures according to engineering requirements, including durability, performance, thermal, charging, ride and handling, and validation testing. 
  • Data Analytics Support: Collect, validate, and organize vehicle test data from data loggers, telemetry systems, diagnostic tools, and test reports to ensure data integrity and traceability. 
  • Data Analytics Support: Support testing databases and generating reports that support prototype development, root-cause investigations, and program readiness assessments. 

Qualifications:

  • Strong attention to detail, safety mindset, and ability to work in a fast-paced test environment. 
  • Ability to summarize technical issues clearly for engineering and operations teams. 
  • Clean MVR 
  • 5 years of Driving experience 

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience working with prototype vehicles, automotive testing, vehicle diagnostics, or validation activities. 
  • Associate degree in Automotive Technology, Engineering Technology, or related field, or equivalent hands-on experience. 
  • Experience supporting EV, battery, charging, thermal, or vehicle validation programs. 
  • Familiarity with CAN tools, diagnostic software, telemetry systems, and Microsoft Excel. 
  • Proving Grounds/ Test driving experience 
  • Extended Time Driving: Ability to stay in the driver's seat for 2-4 hours at time 
  • Standing and Walking:  Ability to stand and walk for 8-12 hours per shift on hard surfaces in a production environment. 
  • Manual Dexterity: Frequent use of hands for handling tools, assembling components, and operating machinery. Requires fine motor skills and grip strength. 
  • Lifting and Carrying: Ability to lift, carry, push, or pull items weighing 10-50 lbs. regularly; occasional lifting up to 75 lbs. with assistance. 
  • Reaching and Bending: Routine reaching above shoulders, bending, and twisting waist, and squatting as part of process and tasks. 
  • Repetitive Motions: Continuous arm, hand, and wrist movements for tasks such as fastening, positioning, and installing. 
  • Climbing: Occasional use of steps to access different height level areas. 
  • PPE Expectations: Must wear required PPE (safety shoes, gloves, protective sleeves, eye and hearing protection) as per company safety standards. 
 
At Lucid, we don't just welcome diversity - we celebrate it! Lucid Motors is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, national or ethnic origin, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity and expression, marital status, and any other characteristic protected under applicable State or Federal laws and regulations.

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About Lucid Motors

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Lucid Motors is a highly innovative electric vehicle manufacturer located in Newark, CA, USA. Primarily engaged in the automotive industry, its mission is to elevate electric vehicles' standing and transform the way people travel. The company was founded in 2007 by Bernard Tse and Sam Weng as Atieva, a name under which it initially focused on battery technology. However, it pivoted towards automotive manufacturing and rebranded as Lucid Motors in 2016. The company is committed to making luxury, sustainable electric vehicles that break norms and set new standards with top-notch technology and engineering. Their mission aligns with their core values, which are centered around innovation, sustainability, and excellence. Notably, Lucid Motors launched the Lucid Air in 2020, an all-electric sedan well-received for its advanced features and impressive mileage.

Industry

Manufacturing

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Newark, CA, US

Year founded

2007

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