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Prototype Engineer Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Burton's Prototype Shop Technicians are key team members of our Advanced Concept and Development ... Complete a job request from start to finish, building to an engineering design request to meet the ...

The prototype buyer is responsible for supporting prototype and development procurement activities ... The role acts as a key interface between internal engineering teams, project stakeholders, and ...

The prototype buyer is responsible for supporting prototype and development procurement activities ... The role acts as a key interface between internal engineering teams, project stakeholders, and ...

The prototype buyer is responsible for supporting prototype and development procurement activities ... The role acts as a key interface between internal engineering teams, project stakeholders, and ...

Coordinate with Engineering on the release of drawings and reviews for manufacturability of parts and material requirements. * Serve as point of contact and subject matter expert for coordination of ...

* Drive the concept design, prototyping, engineering, testing, release and enhancements of a cutting edge compute platform for Autonomous Driving * Work closely with other teams to ensure a seamless ...

Partner cross-functionally with Engineering, Finance, Cost Modeling, and Operations to support prototype programs * Identify, troubleshoot, and resolve technical and operational issues Production ...

Coordinate with Engineering on the release of drawings and reviews for manufacturability of parts and material requirements. * Serve as point of contact and subject matter expert for coordination of ...

Role Summary The Prototype Manufacturing Engineer role will be responsible for design optimization and manufacturability of all Prototype Requests at Rivian. They will collaborate daily with ...

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Prototype Engineer information

See Michigan salary details

$25

$31

$33

How much do prototype engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for prototype engineer in Michigan is $31.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $29.95 and $33.51 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 Michigan? For Prototype Engineer jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Prototype Engineer jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Prototype Engineer jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Prototype Engineer jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Prototype Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Prototype Engineer job openings in Michigan as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, and 11% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $66,126 per year, or $31.8 per hour.
Thermoforming Prototype Technician

Thermoforming Prototype Technician

Peninsula Plastics Company Inc

Pontiac, MI • On-site

$20 - $30/hr

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Job Description

Peninsula Plastics is looking for a hardworking and experienced individual to fill the role of Thermoforming Prototype Technician. The Thermoforming Prototype Technician will be responsible for operating Thermoforming prototype equipment to produce prototype sample parts that meet customer and internal requirements. This will require knowledge in how to complete and document heating, cooling and plug assist adjustments, which will require woodworking, hand tool and critical thinking skills. The Thermoforming Prototype Technician will also be responsible for assisting in the development of prototype tooling.


Location: Primary - 2800 Auburn Ct, Auburn Hills, MI 48326

Shift: 1st Shift - 6:00AM to 2:30PM Monday to Friday, with some weekend availability required.

Pay: $20.00/hr to $30.00/hr


Key Responsibilities and Duties

· Machine Setup & Operation: Setup tooling and fixtures, adjust machine settings (heat, pressures, timing, etc)

· Prototype Development: Produce, trim, and finish prototype parts according to engineering specs and internal SOPs.

· Quality Inspection: Verify parts meet strict dimensional and visual standards, taking corrective action on defective products.

· Troubleshooting : Perform routine troubleshoot issues in the forming process to ensure parts meet customer requirements.

· Documentation : Record any and all relevant information during prototyping process (machine settings, cooling approach, changes, etc)

· Tooling Development : Assist in the creation of prototype tooling within the tool shop to prepare for sampling and/or production


Skills and Qualifications

· Experience: Previous experience in a manufacturing environment, specifically with vacuum forming or thermoforming equipment. Wood working skills: building

plug assist, cooling fixtures and finishing patterns using hand tools and power tools (table saw, bandsaw, die grinder, etc)

· Technical Knowledge: Ability to read and interpret machine settings, Quality standards and CAD drawings.

· Mechanical Aptitude: Strong troubleshooting and mechanical skills.


Physical Requirements

· Standing for 8-10 hour shifts.

· Bending, carrying, pulling, and reaching.

· Lifting up to 50 lbs.