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Prototype Engineer Intern Jobs in Durham, NC (NOW HIRING)

Develop prototypes and proof-of-concepts to facilitate new technology adoption. * Establish quality ... Mentor and train developers, helping them navigate technical challenges and grow their skills.

Develop prototypes and proof-of-concepts to facilitate new technology adoption. * Establish quality ... Mentor and train developers, helping them navigate technical challenges and grow their skills.

Showing results 21-27

Prototype Engineer Intern information

See Durham, NC salary details

$8

$16

$23

How much do prototype engineer intern jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for prototype engineer intern in Durham, NC is $16.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.94 and $18.61 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a prototype engineer intern do?

A Prototype Engineer Intern assists in designing, building, and testing early versions of products or components. They work closely with engineering teams to turn concepts into physical models, often using tools like 3D printers, CNC machines, and hand tools. Their role may involve troubleshooting, documenting results, and suggesting improvements based on testing. This internship provides hands-on experience in the product development process and helps interns develop practical engineering skills.

What types of projects and responsibilities can a prototype engineer intern expect during their internship?

As a Prototype Engineer Intern, you can expect to work on hands-on projects that may include designing, building, and testing prototypes for new products or features. You'll likely collaborate closely with engineers, designers, and sometimes manufacturing teams to bring concepts to life quickly. Typical responsibilities include CAD modeling, assembling physical prototypes, running experiments, and documenting results. This role often requires adaptability and problem-solving, as you'll need to iterate designs based on feedback and test outcomes. It's a great opportunity to gain experience with rapid prototyping tools and processes while working in a collaborative, innovative environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a prototype engineer intern, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Prototype Engineer Intern, you need a solid background in engineering fundamentals, hands-on fabrication skills, and experience with prototyping processes, typically supported by coursework in mechanical or electrical engineering. Familiarity with CAD software (such as SolidWorks or AutoCAD), 3D printing technology, and basic laboratory or workshop tools is often required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication help interns excel in collaborative and fast-paced development environments. These skills are crucial for efficiently transforming design concepts into functional prototypes that support innovation and product development.

What is the difference between Prototype Engineer Intern vs Mechanical Engineering Intern?

AspectPrototype Engineer InternMechanical Engineering Intern
Required CredentialsEnrolled in Mechanical, Electrical, or related engineering programsEnrolled in Mechanical Engineering or related programs
Work EnvironmentHands-on prototyping, product development labs, manufacturing settingsDesign, analysis, testing in labs or office settings
Industry UsageProduct design, hardware development, R&D teamsDesign, analysis, manufacturing, and testing teams

Prototype Engineer Interns focus on creating and testing physical prototypes, often working closely with hardware and manufacturing teams. Mechanical Engineering Interns typically engage in design, analysis, and testing of mechanical systems. While both roles require engineering knowledge and may overlap in industry settings, Prototype Engineer Interns are more hands-on with prototyping processes, whereas Mechanical Engineering Interns may have broader design responsibilities.

What are popular job titles related to Prototype Engineer Intern jobs in Durham, NC?

For Prototype Engineer Intern jobs in Durham, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Durham, NC are hiring for Prototype Engineer Intern jobs?

Cities near Durham, NC with the most Prototype Engineer Intern job openings:

Intern - Mechanical Engineer (Summer 2027)

Plexus Corp.

Raleigh, NC • On-site

$23 - $27/hr

Full-time, Temporary, Internship

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago


Plexus Corp. rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

46th of 161 rated electronics manufacturers


Job description

About us: At Plexus, our vision is to help create the products that build a better world. Driven by a passion for excellence, we partner with leading Aerospace/Defense, Healthcare/Life Sciences and Industrial companies to design, manufacture and service some of the world's most transformative products, including advanced surgical systems, diagnostic instruments, healthcare imaging equipment, mission critical aerospace systems, and electric vehicle (EV) charging solutions. Visit Plexus.com to learn more about our unwavering commitment to our vision

When we invest in our people, we invest in building a better world. With a vision rooted in the wellbeing and inclusive engagement of our team members, our customers, their end users and our communities, people are the heart of what we do and who we are. It is our values that unite us and guide us in everything that we do, including how we operate, behave and interact to foster a workplace where every team member feels valued and empowered to contribute their best.

Our values include: Growing our People, Building Belonging, Innovating Responsibly, Delivering Excellence and Creating Customer Success. As a team member, you will engage in impactful work through global collaboration and the use of emerging technologies, join an inclusive culture where every team member is valued and working toward a greater purpose, and be empowered to reach your full potential through various development programs designed to accelerate your growth. Plexus offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support team members' wellbeing, including medical, dental, and vision insurance, paid time off, retirement savings, and opportunities for professional development.

We also prioritize work-life balance and offer a variety of perks to enhance the team member experience. For more information, visit our US benefits website at usbenefits.plexus.com. Our commitment to pay range transparency fosters an equitable workplace, where everyone can feel valued

This is an internship position (Non-Exempt Salary); the hourly range is stated below. The rate offered within this range will be based upon the geographic location, work experience, education, licensure requirements and/or skill level. Hourly Rate: $23 - $27/hr.

OVERVIEW Perform challenging and diverse product development efforts, providing mechanical engineering design services and support throughout all stages of the product development life cycle. RESPONSIBILITIES Develop mechanical components and system concepts that satisfy the customer's requirements. Create and modify 3D models and 2D drawings under the guidance of senior engineers, ensuring accuracy and adherence to design standards.

Assisting in the building and assembly of prototypes, including tasks like cutting, drilling, using a mill or lathe, and assembling components, while following safety procedures. Performing simple tests on materials or prototypes, recording data accurately, and assisting in the organization and presentation of test results. Complete preliminary analysis on tolerance stack ups, thermal or structural under the guidance of senior engineers, ensuring accuracy and adherence to design specifications.

Attending meetings, contributing ideas, and taking notes, while learning from experienced engineers and gaining exposure to the product development process. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS Student working toward a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering for the entire duration of internship. PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS Minimum Sophomore or Junior level status GPA: 3.0 or higher is preferred Experience with Creo Parametric and/or SolidWorks is desired This document does not represent a contract of employment and is not intended to capture every possible assignment the incumbent could be asked to perform

We are pleased to provide reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities or special requirements. If you need an application accommodation, please contact us by email at GHQ.TA@plexus.com. Please include your contact information and clearly describe how we can help you

This email is for accommodation requests only and cannot be used to inquire about the status of applications. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE) and do not discriminate based on race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status. Some offers of employment are contingent upon successfully passing a drug screen and/or background check.


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About Plexus

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Electrical equipment, appliance, and component manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Neenah, WI, US

Year founded

1979