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Prototype Engineer Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Mechanical Prototype Testing Engineer Support the development of motorcycle, scooter, and powersports belt-drive systems through prototype procurement, supplier management, inspection, testing ...

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Build, assemble, and modify prototypes, engineering samples, and occasional production units throughout the hardware development process. * Support engineers with product validation, testing ...

Build, assemble, and modify prototypes, engineering samples, and occasional production units throughout the hardware development process. * Support engineers with product validation, testing ...

Build, assemble, and modify prototypes, engineering samples, and occasional production units throughout the hardware development process. * Support engineers with product validation, testing ...

Build, assemble, and modify prototypes, engineering samples, and occasional production units throughout the hardware development process. * Support engineers with product validation, testing ...

Prototyping: Plan and coordinate production of prototype parts and systems for validation. * Documentation: Fully document and track engineering changes, CAD files, and test reports in cooperation ...

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Prototype Engineer information

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How much do prototype engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for prototype engineer in Colorado is $38.35, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $36.15 and $40.43 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 are the most commonly searched types of Prototype Engineer jobs in Colorado?

The most popular types of Prototype Engineer jobs in Colorado are:

What job categories do people searching Prototype Engineer jobs in Colorado look for?

The top searched job categories for Prototype Engineer jobs in Colorado are:

Infographic showing various Prototype Engineer job openings in Colorado as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $79,776 per year, or $38.4 per hour.

Prototype Machinist (2nd Shift, 5x8)

Fort Collins, CO • On-site


Woodward, Inc.

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 70 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

100th of 495 rated machine equipment manufacturers

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Paid breaks


$31.25 - $40.38/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

Woodward is committed to creating a great workplace for all team members. Our company and its members are committed to acting with integrity, being respectful and accountable to one another, and staying humble and driven, while maintaining the highest professional and ethical standards.

We are steadfastly committed to attracting the best talent across our communities creating a rewarding workplace. Together we are fulfilling our purpose to design and deliver energy control solutions our partners count on to power a clean future.

Woodward supports our members' wellbeing and regularly benchmarks with other companies in our industry to offer an extensive Total Reward package for this position. Salary will be determined by the applicant's education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity and alignment with market data.

  • Estimated hourly base pay: $31.25 (minimum) - $40.38 (midpoint) - $50.00 (maximum). Plus, overtime and shift premium.
  • Long-term incentive compensation in the form of equity
  • All members included in annual cash bonus opportunity
  • 401(k) match (4.5%)
  • Annual Woodward stock contribution (5%)
  • Tuition reimbursement and Training/Professional Development opportunities for all members
  • 12 paid holidays
  • Industry leading medical, dental, and vision Insurance upon date of hire
  • Vacation / Sick Time / Vacation Buy-up / Short Term Disability / Bereavement leave.
  • Paid parental leave
  • Adoption Assistance
  • Employee Assistance Program, including mental health benefits
  • Member Life & AD&D / Long Term Disability / Member Optional Life
  • Member referral bonus
  • Spouse / Child Optional Life / Optional AD&D / Healthcare and Dependent Care Flexible Spending
  • Voluntary benefits, including:
    • Home / Auto Insurance discounts
    • Whole Life Insurance / Critical Illness Insurance / Legal Assistance / Military Leave

Are you ready to make your mark?

If you're anexperienced Prototype Machinist with programming experience, we have an exciting opportunity for you!

** This is a 2n shift position, Monday to Friday, 8 hours shift, starting at 2:30pm.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Machine Operations:
    • Design and execute complex machining process flow to transform raw materials into finished parts, including sequencing, optimization, and tolerance stack-ups.
    • Design, recommend, and create work holding, fixturing, cutting tool selections and specifications for complex parts.
    • Create, modify, troubleshoot, and optimize complex CNC programs using CAM software, ensuring robustness and quality (Gage R&R).
    • Significant knowledge in CNC programming, machine capabilities, material machining properties, and processes including grinding, turning, milling, and drilling.
    • Perform advanced and innovative inspections, using precision gauging equipment, machine probes, and CMM reports.
    • Mentor other machinists
  • Develop Machining Processes: Designs and refines machining procedures to enhance efficiency and ensure the accuracy of prototype development. Perform advanced and innovative inspections, using precision gauging equipment, machine probes, and CMM reports.
  • Quality Assurance: Uses various gages to inspect finished products to ensure compliance with quality standards. Records and maintains data per operating standards (SOP).
  • Organization & Cleanliness: Champions 5S principles, develops and refines 5S practices, and ensures consistent adherence to standards across the team or department. Collaborates with front line leadership to integrate 5S principles into broader operational processes.
  • Safety Mindset: Serves as a safety champion by fostering a culture of accountability within the team. Partners to align safety initiatives with organizational goals.

Key Skills:

  • Machine and Technical Operation: Demonstrated ability to solely and effectively set up, program, and operate manual and multi-axis CNC machines at an advanced level to manufacture first-part validations. Ability to create custom programming and advanced understanding of CNC machine parameters as needed. Advanced understanding of secondary processes such as anodizing, coatings, and heat treating.
  • Troubleshooting: Expert level in diagnosing and resolving complex issues that arise during machining processes. Anticipates potential issues and proactively creates solutions to avoid downtime. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to develop process plans and resolve complex part manufacturing challenges.
  • Mechanical Aptitude: Expert understanding of mechanical systems and components. Ability to choose, set up, and use inspection gaging and hand/power tools.
  • Team Communication: Communicates effectively with team members and supervisors to support workflow and escalate immediate issues. Champions Woodward's Core Values.
  • Time Management: Proactively prioritizes time to complete assigned tasks within established schedules. Recognizes potential impact to efficiency and collaborates with Team Lead to resolve.
  • Lean Mindset: Follows lean practices such as 5S and waste reduction. Identifies inefficiencies and suggest improvements. Supports and participates in lean initiatives and principles and drives a culture of continuous improvement.
  • Production Systems: Champions standardized work and escalates when cannot be followed. Actively participates in the daily management system.
  • Computer Skills: Automates tasks, analyzes data trends, and supports digital transformation initiatives. Advanced experience in using software packages such as 3D CAD/CAM, collision avoidance, tool monitoring and optimization.
  • Attention to Detail: Ensures precision in tasks to maintain high quality standards. Follows instructions precisely and checks work for accuracy.
  • Collaboration: Works cooperatively with team members to support overall team objectives and workflow. Works well with team members and accepts feedback. Collaborates across teams, shares knowledge, and supports team goals. Builds strong cross-functional relationships and fosters a collaborative culture. Effective verbal and written communication skills including documentation, collaboration, and project updates with team members.

Other qualifications

  • Successful applicants usually have experience writing and editing programs for 5-axis CNC machines.

Application window is anticipated to close 15 days from original posting date.

This information is provided in compliance with the Colorado Equal Pay for Equal Work Act and is the company's good faith and reasonable estimate of the compensation range and benefits offered for this position. The compensation offered to the successful applicant may vary based on factors including experience, skills, education, location, and other job-related reasons.

This position requires use of information which is subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and/or the Export Administration Regulations (EAR). All applicants must be U.S. Persons within the meaning of the ITAR and EAR, or eligible to obtain all required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State and/or the U.S. Department of Commerce. The ITAR defines a U.S. Person as a U.S. citizen or national, lawful permanent resident (i.e., 'Green Card holder'), or a protected person (e.g., asylee, or refugee).

Woodward is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in hiring or employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including sexual orientation and gender identity), national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other category protected under federal, state, or local laws.


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