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Prototype Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

You will help the team to move from a sketched concept to a hands-on integrated prototype with an ... Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, Electromechanical Engineering, Industrial Design, or a ...

The Applied Research and Characterization team combines expertise in mechanical engineering, human ... Because our prototypes serve internal research rather than production pipelines, the emphasis is on ...

The Applied Research and Characterization team combines expertise in mechanical engineering, human ... Because our prototypes serve internal research rather than production pipelines, the emphasis is on ...

You will help the team to move from a sketched concept to a hands-on integrated prototype with an ... software engineers Take a hands-on role in fabrication and assembly, including fit-checking ...

Description As a prototyping engineer you will be responsible for emulating a complex SOC & are expected to: -Review specifications, develop prototyping plans and specifications. -Work closely with ...

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Interpret engineering drawings, work instructions, and assembly documentation. * Perform functional ... Support engineering validation, prototype development, and continuous improvement initiatives.

Prototype Team Lead

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$100K - $160K/yr

The work ranges from one-off parts and fixtures to repeatable components that keep engineering moving. About the role As the Prototype Team Lead at Droyd, you will manage day-to-day operations for ...

Prototype Build Technician Position Description : Protingent Staffing has an exciting direct hire ... You'll work closely with hardware and service engineering teams to tackle novel technical ...

Showing results 21-40

Prototype Engineer information

See California salary details

$28

$35

$38

How much do prototype engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for prototype engineer in California is $36.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $33.94 and $37.98 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges prototype engineers face when transitioning designs from concept to functional prototypes?

Prototype Engineers often encounter challenges such as interpreting incomplete or evolving design specifications, sourcing unconventional materials, and working within tight deadlines. Close collaboration with design, engineering, and manufacturing teams is essential to resolve technical issues quickly and ensure the prototype aligns with the intended functionality. Flexibility and creative problem-solving are key, as unexpected obstacles frequently arise during the rapid iteration and testing phases.

What is a prototype engineer?

A Prototype Engineer is a professional who designs, builds, and tests early versions of products or components to evaluate their functionality and performance before mass production. They collaborate with designers, engineers, and product managers to turn concepts into tangible prototypes, using a variety of fabrication techniques and materials. Their work helps identify potential design improvements, troubleshoot issues, and ensure that the final product meets technical and user requirements.

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

To thrive as a Prototype Engineer, you need strong skills in mechanical or electrical engineering, rapid prototyping techniques, and a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with CAD software, 3D printing technologies, and hands-on fabrication tools is typically required, along with knowledge of prototyping standards. Creativity, problem-solving, and effective communication are essential soft skills to excel in cross-functional teams and adapt to evolving project requirements. These abilities enable successful design iteration, effective collaboration, and efficient transition from concept to functional prototype.

What does a prototype engineer do?

A prototype engineer is part of a product development team that designs prototypes for new kinds of industrial products. Many companies employ design engineers to perform numerous technical duties, such as drawing up schematics and blueprints, overseeing the production of prototypes, and testing those prototypes to decide whether they should enter mass production. The career requires significant educational qualifications and a variety of skills and experience. You should have an engineering degree in the field you wish to enter, strong analytical problem-solving, and the ability to work as part of a large team.

What are popular job titles related to Prototype Engineer jobs in California? For Prototype Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Prototype Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Prototype Engineer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Prototype Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Prototype Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Prototype Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $74,874 per year, or $36 per hour.

Robot Prototype Technician

Physical Intelligence

San Francisco, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description

Who We Are
Physical Intelligence is bringing general-purpose AI into the physical world. We are a group of engineers, scientists, roboticists, and company builders developing foundation models and learning algorithms to power the robots of today and the physically-actuated devices of the future.
The Team
Robot Prototype Engineering Technicians collaborate closely with robot design engineers to build, test, and refine early stage robots. In this role you will use skills with assembly, fabrication, electronics, and troubleshooting to build initial robot designs, identify design flaws for improvement in future design iterations, propose solutions for improvements regarding build, maintenance, and repair of robots. These technicians are part of the robot fleet team within the PI Hardware Organization.
In This Role You Will:
  • Fabricate and Assembly Robot Prototype Systems and Components: Build mechanical/electrical prototypes using tools, 3D printing, soldering, and machining. Review and understand mechanical drawings, electrical schematics, and wiring diagrams for prototype assembly.
  • Repair Robot Prototype Systems and Components:
    • Repair mechanical components such as actuators, motors, gearboxes, bearings, and moving parts that could fail or break in initial prototype designs.
    • Repair electrical systems including wiring, circuits, power supplies, sensors, and control systems that could fail or break in initial prototype designs.
  • Perform Basic Troubleshooting and Testing of Robot Prototype Systems and Components: Conduct basic functional tests and troubleshooting failures to engineering feedback to improve prototype designs. Perform tests on electrical systems using diagnostic tools, multimeters, oscilloscopes, and other specialized equipment.
  • Collaboration Effectively with Hardware Design Engineers: Work with engineering teams to iterate designs based on experimental results. Propose solutions to hardware design engineering team for ease of assembly, repair, and maintenance

What We Hope You'll Bring
  • 2+ years of prototyping technician experience
  • Assembly and disassembly skills on electromechanical systems - Proficiency with electrical systems/components (AC/DC motors, wiring, controllers) and mechanical systems/components (motors, gears, Bearings).
  • Soldering skills and harness/wiring skills
  • Proficiency in using CAD software to view design files (e.g., Solidworks, Onshape) and ability to interpret engineering drawings and wiring diagrams
  • Experience working with diagnostic tools, multimeters, oscilloscopes, and PLCs.
  • Strong problem-solving ability
  • Strong attention to detail
  • Excellent communication and teamwork abilities

Bonus Points
  • Proficiency with rapid prototyping tools and 3D printers
  • Experience with robotic systems
  • Associate degree in Electrical/Mechanical Engineering, Robotics, or a related technical field. A bachelor's degree is a plus.
  • Relevant certifications in electrical or mechanical systems (e.g., ASE, NATE, etc.)