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Prototype Engineer Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Prototype CNC Machinist

Madison, IN

$18.75 - $25.75/hr

This role is responsible for programming, setting up, and machining prototype parts while partnering closely with Engineering and Quality to ensure precision, functionality, and timely completion of ...

New

Prototype CNC Machinist

Madison, IN · On-site

$18.75 - $25.75/hr

This role is responsible for programming, setting up, and machining prototype parts while partnering closely with Engineering and Quality to ensure precision, functionality, and timely completion of ...

New

This position will support a program focused on systems engineering, rapid prototyping, and the integration of advanced capabilities in support of the nation's warfighters. The Computer Engineer will ...

Engineering Time Type: Full time Minimum Clearance Required to Start: Secret Employee Type: Regular ... Execute the complete in-house prototyping workflow from design to fabrication. Perform hands-on ...

Computer Engineer

Crane, IN · On-site

$111K - $131K/yr

Join our passionate team of industry-leading individuals on a program that leverages the best practices in Systems Engineering and Rapid Prototyping to integrate and deliver state of the art ...

DESIGN ENGINEER POLYWOOD ® On-site Syracuse, IN Department: Product Development / Design Reports ... From prototype feedback to manufacturing constraints, your ideas will help improve products before ...

Description DESIGN ENGINEER POLYWOOD | On-site | Syracuse, IN Department: Product Development ... From prototype feedback to manufacturing constraints, your ideas will help improve products before ...

DESIGN ENGINEER POLYWOOD ® | On-site | Syracuse, IN Department: Product Development / Design ... From prototype feedback to manufacturing constraints, your ideas will help improve products before ...

This role will oversee packaging from prototype design through RFQ, supplier selection, procurement ... Bachelor's degree in Packaging Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Supply ...

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Showing results 1-20

Prototype Engineer information

See Indiana salary details

$27

$34

$36

How much do prototype engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for prototype engineer in Indiana is $34.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $32.69 and $36.59 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 the most commonly searched types of Prototype Engineer jobs in Indiana? The most popular types of Prototype Engineer jobs in Indiana are:
What job categories do people searching Prototype Engineer jobs in Indiana look for? The top searched job categories for Prototype Engineer jobs in Indiana are:
Infographic showing various Prototype Engineer job openings in Indiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $72,193 per year, or $34.7 per hour.

Associate Prototype Machinist

SMC Corporation of America

Noblesville, IN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago


SMC Corporation Of America rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 16 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

305th of 487 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description

PURPOSE


This role is to provide engineering support in the form of manufacturing prototype components, modifying existing parts and assemblies and manufacturing jigs and fixtures within the organization. A successful candidate will be fluent using a variety of fabrication equipment with a knowledge of tools and operating parameters.


ESSENTIAL DUTIES


• Interpret internal and external customer requirements to meet desired outputs.

• Create prototypes based on engineering designs and specifications to meet quality standards and functional requirements.

• Communicate technical knowledge, specification, and direction to internal and external customers.

• Provide creative solutions to component designs in regard to manufacturability including troubleshooting issues, optimizing production efficiency, and implementing improvements.

• Setup, program, and utilize a variety of fabrication equipment including CNC and manual machines.

• Design and manufacture jigs, fixtures, and tooling to aid in the prototype manufacturing process.

• Recommend appropriate raw material selection for prototype components based on the engineering requirements and material availability.

• Perform routine inspection and preventative maintenance on equipment and tools to ensure optimal performance and maximize up-time.

• Provide training and guidance to other team members on proper equipment usage, maintenance procedures, and safety protocols.

• Create and input data utilizing corporate management system software that include part process documentation.

• Complete assigned tasks using predefined departmental processes.

• Hands on technical support for internal customers.

• Participate on a team to accomplish given tasks or processes.

• Travel mainly for the purpose of training. (minimal)

• All other activities as assigned.

• Record daily activities.


PHYSICAL DEMANDS/WORK ENVIRONMENT


• Capacity to work indoors in an office, laboratory, and/or manufacturing environment.

• Ability to work in a stationary position for prolonged periods of time.

• Capability to lift objects or equipment weighing up to 51 pounds with or without reasonable accommodation.

• Physical aptitude to use basic hand tools in a laboratory and/or manufacturing environment.

• Ability to travel and/or attend meetings domestic and internationally outside of normal business hours.


MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS


• Associates degree (preferred) in a technical discipline, or the equivalent in appropriate education and experience as determined by management utilizing internal SMC career development criteria.

• Novice understanding of the product development process.

• Novice understanding to apply project management principles, methodologies, and documentation.

• Novice understanding of CAD software as applied to product development process.

• Novice understanding of CAM software (Mastercam preferred).

• Fluent understanding of Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) as applied to the fabrication and inspection process.

• Competent understanding of common assembly processes.

• Fluent ability to comprehend and interpret engineering specifications.

• Fluent in programming CNC mills and lathes (Mazatrol preferred)

• Fluent to create and edit G-code programs.

• Fluent in setting up, operating, and executing all functions of manual fabrication equipment.

• Competent in mathematical and geometric calculations.

• Competent at efficient use of time to effectively plan and execute multiple duties.

• Fluent in the use of proper inspection equipment to verify part to print. (Calipers, micrometers, surface plate, height gage, etc.)

• Competent ability to communicate utilizing corporate office software.

• Competent ability to take verbal and/or written direction on tasks, training, or departmental / company policies.

• Competent ability to communicate, in English, with internal and external customers tactfully and professionally.

• 0+ years (preferred) relevant work experience.

Company Description

SMC Corporation of America is a part of a global organization that supports our customers in every industrialized country and is the U.S. subsidiary of SMC Corporation based in Japan. Since its establishment, SMC has been a leader in pneumatic technology, providing the various industries with technology and products to support automation based on the guiding principle of “contributing to automation labor savings in industry.” Over the past 50+ years, SMC's products have become established as a recognized international brand through sales, technical, supply and after sale services in world markets. Sales have grown to achieve a 30% global market share.

Subsidiaries and joint ventures have been setup in a total of 53 countries. Production facilities are located in 30 countries. In addition, a sales network extends throughout 83 countries, with local services in 500 locations. SMC offers technology accumulated through the years, engineers that bring it to life in new products, production capacity which can deliver a variety of products in a short time, and an extensive sales network in the U.S. and throughout the world.

With its goal of ever more advanced automation, and using its many achievements as a base, SMC is developing high-quality, highly reliable products to contribute to automation in industry, as well as in familiar areas of everyday life.


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