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Prototype Engineer Intern Jobs in Orange, CA (NOW HIRING)

Ametek

AI Automation Intern

Orange, CA · On-site

Work with engineers to translate product requirements and specs into reliable firmware change rules ... Build simple prototypes, process maps, or proof-of-concept demonstrations as appropriate.

Ametek

AI Automation Intern

Orange, CA

Work with engineers to translate product requirements and specs into reliable firmware change rules ... Build simple prototypes, process maps, or proofofconcept demonstrations as appropriate. * Implement ...

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Prototype Engineer Intern information

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How much do prototype engineer intern jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for prototype engineer intern in Orange, CA is $18.20, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $20.53 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 Orange, CA?

For Prototype Engineer Intern jobs in Orange, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Prototype Engineer Intern jobs in Orange, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Prototype Engineer Intern jobs in Orange, CA are:

What cities near Orange, CA are hiring for Prototype Engineer Intern jobs?

Cities near Orange, CA with the most Prototype Engineer Intern job openings:

Prototype Engineer Intern jobs near you
Infographic showing various Prototype Engineer Intern job openings in Orange, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,854 per year, or $18.2 per hour.

Mechanical Engineering Intern (Summer 2027)

Freeform

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$35/hr

Temporary, Internship

Posted 3 days ago

New

Job description

MECHANICAL ENGINEERING INTERN (SUMMER 2027)

Freeform is deploying software-defined, autonomous metal 3D printing factories around the world, bringing the scalability of software to physical production. Our proprietary technology stack leverages advanced sensing, real-time controls, and data-driven learning to produce digitally verified, flawless parts at unprecedented speed and cost. Our mission is to make the transformative power of 3D printing available to all industries at scale and unlock the future of innovation.  

As a Mechanical Engineering Intern at Freeform, you will contribute to the design, development, and deployment of cutting-edge, clean-sheet systems that push the boundaries of additive manufacturing, automation, and factory-scale integration. You'll work with a talented engineering team from some of the world's most innovative companies across a range of projects from mechanical design and prototyping to testing and integration - gaining hands-on experience in a fast-paced, multidisciplinary environment. This includes working on complex mechanical assemblies, precision motion systems, and high-performance thermal and fluid subsystems. You'll collaborate with electrical and software engineers to help integrate subsystems into cohesive, production-ready platforms.  

3D printing experience is not required to be successful here - we look for smart, motivated, collaborative engineers who love solving hard problems and creating amazing technology! 

Responsibilities: 

  • Own a cradle to grave project that delivers meaningful impact to critical print factory capabilities 
  • Contribute to the design, build, prototyping, and testing of mechanical components, subassemblies, and systems  
  • Assist with tolerance analysis and mechanical feasibility studies  
  • Participate in hands-on builds, integration, and validation of mechanical systems  
  • Collaborate with senior engineers to improve system performance, reliability, and manufacturability  

 Basic Qualifications: 

  • Currently enrolled in a bachelor's degree in mechanical or aerospace engineering from an ABET accredited university or college 
  • Hands on design experience from internships or engineering clubs such as FSAE, Baja SAE, solar car, rocket club, robotics club, or similar 
  • Strong grasp of mechanical engineering fundamentals and comfortable taking a first-principles approach to solving problems  

Nice to Have: 

  • Advanced degree (Master's, PhD) in mechanical or aerospace engineering 
  • Knowledge of motion control and kinematics 
  • Experience with design of fluid or thermal systems 
  • Working knowledge of electromechanical systems 
  • Passion for improving the state of metal 3D printing 
  • Comfortable working in fast-paced, ambiguous environments and iterating quickly (comfortable building the plane as we fly it) 
  • Strong communicator who collaborates across disciplines and proactively seeks support when needed 
  • Willing to take ownership of tasks big and small, with a hands-on, problem-solving mindset 
  • Strong work ethic with a refuse-to-fail mindset 
  • Demonstrated indicators of excellence and/or achieving success against adversity (i.e. top academic performance, leadership in engineering clubs, first-generation college student, or other examples of resilience and achievement) 

Location: 

  • We are located in Hawthorne, CA in a 35,000 square foot, state-of-the-art facility featuring large open spaces for team collaboration, R&D, and production, as well as easy access to the 405, 105, and 110 freeways.Our facility is in the heart of Los Angeles' vibrant emerging tech ecosystem alongside many other high growth startups and enterprises. 

What We Offer:

  • We have an inclusive and diverse culture that values collaboration, learning, and making deliberate data-driven decisions 
  • We offer a unique opportunity to be an early and integral member of a rapidly growing company that is scaling a world-changing technology 
  • Compensation and Benefits 
    • The compensation for this role:
      • Engineering Intern/Undergraduate: $30/hour
      • Engineering Intern/Masters: $32.50/hour
      • Engineering Intern/PhD: $35/hour
    • Relocation assistance provided
    • Free daily catered lunch and dinner, and fully stocked kitchenette 
    • Casual dress, flexible work hours, and regular catered team building events 
  • Freeform is an Equal Opportunity Employer that values diversity; employment with Freeform is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status. 

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