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Prototype Engineer Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Rivian

Prototyping Manufacturing Engineer

Plymouth, MI

$78K - $97K/yr

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 ...

Roush

Prototype Project Manager I

Livonia, MI

We fuse technology and engineering to provide product development solutions to customers in a diverse range of industries. Widely recognized for providing engineering, testing, prototype, and ...

New

ROUSH

Prototype Project Manager I

Allen Park, MI · On-site

We fuse technology and engineering to provide product development solutions to customers in a diverse range of industries. Widely recognized for providing engineering, testing, prototype, and ...

ROUSH

Prototype Program Manager

Livonia, MI · On-site

At Roush, we fuse technology and engineering to provide product development solutions to customers in a diverse range of industries. Widely recognized for providing engineering, testing, prototype ...

Kasmo Global

Software Engineer

Troy, MI · Remote

We are seeking talented full-stack engineers with a passion for rapid prototyping and a proven ability to turn strategic direction into production-quality software. This is a builder role, ideal for ...

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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 13, 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.

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Prototype Engineer jobs near you
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.
Prototype Technician - Fabrication

Prototype Technician - Fabrication

AM General

Auburn Hills, MI • On-site

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago

AM General rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

INTRODUCTION TO AM GENERAL
AM General develops and builds specialized ground vehicle systems that get the US Armed Services and our allies to and from their mission safely. Our innovative spirit delivers advanced, rugged, resilient, and dependable mobility solutions. We are one team dedicated to producing the best products for our customers. We have a collective understanding that at AM General our purpose is to serve those who serve to protect us.
We R.I.D.E. with Sgt. Smith!
We are Responsive We have Integrity We are Dynamic We exhibit Excellence
PRINCIPLE DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Assist in the timely completion of in-house experimental vehicle builds, rebuild and component modification projects
  • May fabricate parts from detailed prints or layouts supplied by Design Engineering. Equipment required for these types of operations may include, but is not limited to, drills, shears, brake press, lathes, Bridgeport, ¾ CNC Mill, water jet, welding and other metal forming tools equipment.
  • Assemble prototype vehicles and components using detailed layout drawings/verbal instructions
  • Assemble, build, rebuild and modify experimental and/or prototype vehicles
  • Modify and update components and parts by machine or hand
  • Assist in instrumentation installation and vehicle preparation for component and/or vehicle compliance testing
  • Rivet weld, machine, and assemble or reassemble parts and components. Install parts and components on vehicle
  • Support testing and evaluate various parts or components
  • Assist in training new mechanics
  • Provide diagnostics for various automotive systems such as power train, cooling, fuel, electrical and HVAC systems
  • Other duties as assigned

KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS
  • A high school diploma or GED equivalent is required
  • 1-3 year of related technical experience is required
  • ASE Certification preferred
  • Ability to read blueprints
  • Possess light fabrication capabilities and welding skills
  • Familiarity with: Bridgeports, man/CNC Lathes, ¾ axis CNC Mills, waterjets, press brakes, other fabrication tools. Alignment racks, paint booths, overhead cranes, diagnostic tools
  • Commercial Driver's License (CDL) desired, or willingness to obtain
  • Basic PC skills required

PHYSICAL EFFORT
  • Sight: must be able to regularly read computer screen, reports, and various documents with detail and clarity to accomplish work tasks in a safe and efficient manner, including regular use of adequate close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, and ability to adjust focus
  • Hearing: must be able to regularly hear well enough to communicate
  • Hand-Eye Coordination: must be able to regularly coordinate one's eyes with one's fingers, wrists, or arms to move, carry, or manipulate objects or to perform other job-related tasks
  • Manual Dexterity: must be able to regularly make quick, accurate, skillful, and coordinated movement with hands and arms to grasp, place, move, or use objects such as phone, computer, and other office equipment, tools, or controls
  • Agility: must be able to regularly bend, stretch, twist, or reach out with the body, arms, or legs to perform job tasks, including the ability to move throughout all areas of the facility, Company's property surrounding facility, or additional work areas
  • Climbing / Kneeling: must be able to occasionally climb, kneel, bend over, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl, with balance
  • Lifting: must be able to occasionally lift up to 25 pounds with or without assistance
  • Physical Strength: must be able to occasionally lift, push, pull, or carry objects using hands, arms, back, abdominal muscles, shoulders, legs, or a combination of these muscle groups
  • Stamina: must be able to occasionally exert oneself physically over long periods of time, including performing repetitive or strenuous tasks as well as standing and sitting for long periods

WORKING CONDITIONS
  • Physical Location: This position operates between an office and manufacturing plant environment and is often assigned to a specific shift or hours. The Employee must be able to perform job functions in an environment with varying difficult work conditions such as extreme cold, heat, inclement weather, at heights, and/or while exposed to constant/intermittent loud noises
  • Teamwork: This position will work with others to ensure efficiency in the workplace
  • Listening Skills: This position will need to understand how to use machinery properly and safely to prevent accidents and ensure all tasks are completed accurately
  • Ability to follow instructions: Managers assign tasks and responsibilities, which vary; this position should be able to follow instructions competently
  • Methodical approach: Production lines follow a set process, so this position needs a methodical approach to ensure all tasks are completed in the correct order for a smooth-running production line
  • Concentration: This position may perform the same or similar tasks repeatedly, so a strong level of concentration when carrying out these tasks is important for quality control purposes. This role is often fast paced, so being able to maintain focus at all times is important

TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS
Up to 30% travel may be required - travel to support prototype activities may be needed from time to time
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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