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Prototype Engineer Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Ergotron, Inc

Model Maker & Prototype Engineer II

Eagan, MN · On-site

$65K - $85K/yr

This is an exciting opportunity for a Shop Manager & Prototype Engineer II to join the New Product Development Team at our global headquarters in Eagan, MN. Ergotron is investing in strengthening our ...

BAE Systems

Eng Plan Spec II

Maple Grove, MN · On-site

$67K - $114K/yr

The individual will work closely with engineering customers and prototype engineering and technical staff to plan and schedule work that meets the requirements of our Combat Mission Systems customers.

Manpower

Prototype Operator

Duluth, MN

$23/hr

As a Prototype Operator, you will be part of the Production department supporting engineering and manufacturing teams. The ideal candidate will demonstrate attention to detail, technical aptitude ...

Emerson

Prototype Technician

Shakopee, MN

$50K - $64K/yr

Working within our Electrical Supply Chain team, you'll collaborate with engineering and design teams to build prototype circuit boards, improve processes, champion safety initiatives, and help drive ...

Emerson Group

Prototype Technician

Shakopee, MN · On-site

$50K - $64K/yr

Working within our Electrical Supply Chain team, you'll collaborate with engineering and design teams to build prototype circuit boards, improve processes, champion safety initiatives, and help drive ...

Craft Pattern and Mold

Prototype CNC Machinist

Montrose, MN · On-site

$21.50 - $29.25/hr

Prototype CNC Machinist 1st Shift Monday - Friday Location: Montrose, MN The Prototype CNC ... Engineer the appropriate machining process using experience, guidance from the project manager ...

Konik

R&D Engineer

Minneapolis, MN · Hybrid

$150K - $180K/yr

Research and Development Engineer - Renewable and Energy Systems Minneapolis, MN | Direct Hire ... Design, prototype, test, and refine mechanical systems, instrumentation, tools, and equipment for ...

Landscape Structures

R&D Engineer

Delano, MN · On-site

This position requires a hands on iterative engineering approach where ideas are quickly translated into physical prototypes to understand what works, what fails, and what should move forward. The ...

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Prototype Engineer information

See Minnesota salary details

$28

$35

$37

How much do prototype engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for prototype engineer in Minnesota is $35.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $33.65 and $37.69 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.

More about Prototype Engineer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Prototype Engineer jobs in Minnesota? The most popular types of Prototype Engineer jobs in Minnesota are:
What are popular job titles related to Prototype Engineer jobs in Minnesota? For Prototype Engineer jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Prototype Engineer jobs in Minnesota look for? The top searched job categories for Prototype Engineer jobs in Minnesota are:
What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Prototype Engineer jobs? Cities in Minnesota with the most Prototype Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Prototype Engineer jobs in MN? For Prototype Engineer jobs in MN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Prototype Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Prototype Engineer job openings in Minnesota as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, and 8% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $74,306 per year, or $35.7 per hour.
Model Maker & Prototype Engineer II

Model Maker & Prototype Engineer II

Ergotron, Inc

Eagan, MN • On-site

$65K - $85K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 24 days ago

Job description

About Ergotron:
Ergotron, Inc. is a global leader in designing ergonomic solutions that connect people and technology to enhance human performance, health and happiness. Through its 40+-year history, Ergotron has led the industry with innovative, professional-grade products and customer-focused service. The company has earned more than 200 patents and through the Technology of Movement™, established a growing portfolio of products and solutions to help create environments that promote wellness, productivity and efficiency.
Ergotron is headquartered in St. Paul, Minnesota, with a strong presence in North America, EMEA and Asia Pacific. For more information, please visit www.ergotron.com .
Position Summary:
  • This is an exciting opportunity for a Shop Manager & Prototype Engineer II to join the New Product Development Team at our global headquarters in Eagan, MN. Ergotron is investing in strengthening our capability for design and rapid prototyping. Our goal is to develop concepts quickly to validate design direction with customers, both internal and external. This position will require the leveraging of 3D Printing, manual machining, along with hand fabrication. Models include: quick conceptual mock ups to validate a specific function, volume studies, usability and ergonomic studies, and fully functioning prototypes for design and engineering investigation.
  • Why is this role important? We recognize that every good product hinges on validation, early and often, before going to production. With your help, Ergotron can continue to make a positive impact on people's health and well-being.

Position Responsibilities:
  • Build and fabricate prototype models ranging from rough concept models built to learn a specific function/form to high quality and complex models using plastics, woods, metals, Ren, and additional materials.
  • Coordinate the operations of the model shop, assigning tasks and tracking project timelines to ensure prototypes are delivered on time
  • Finishing and painting of appearance models.
  • Create prototypes and models from a napkin sketch or from CAD models (SOLIDWORKS preferred) to capture the design intent.
  • Lead and train others of various skill levels to work effectively and safely within the shop environment.
  • Partner with Safety to ensure the shop adheres to OSHA guidelines and hazard regulations.
  • Program, operate, and maintain equipment such as mills/lathes, 3D printers, CNC benders and plasma cutters, table saws, and other machinery/hand tools.
  • Cross functional collaboration with Design teams to develop a project's build needs, brainstorm ideas, review build progress and advise on design manufacturability.
  • Work with various teams to document project activities to leverage company know-how across the design organization.
  • Understand vendor capabilities and make recommendations for outsourcing when appropriate.
  • Explore new materials, processes, and equipment.
  • Procure and maintain material inventory, facilities, and equipment.
  • Track departmental budget, monitoring the costs of materials, equipment and labor.
  • Maintain 5S methodology (Sort, Set in Order, Shine, Standardize, and Sustain).
  • Travel upon request based on project requirements and professional development.
  • Support Manufacturing as needed with troubleshooting and new product production.
  • Additional duties as requested.

Position Requirements (Knowledge and Experience):
  • Associate degree or higher in Model Building/Making, Engineering, Rapid Prototyping, or a related major.
  • 4+ years of experience.
  • Experience in prototyping or model making, scheduling resources in a model shop, and collaborating with industrial designers, engineers, and vendors in new product development.
  • 3D modeling, 3D printing, plasma cutting, welding, manual machine operation including lathes, mills, sheet metal break and press along with other typical machine shop equipment.
  • Ability to manufacture parts and prototypes to drawing specifications and tolerances.
  • Experience in laying out and maintaining efficient model shop, including equipment, tools, and materials.
  • Self motivated, creative and capable of handling and prioritizing multiple projects.
  • Able to lift 50 pounds.
  • Must be able to perform the physical requirements of the job as described to you for the position.
  • Ability to champion and model behavior reinforcing Ergotron's Core Values

Benefits:
  • Ergotron provides a fast-paced, innovative and flexible work environment with a comprehensive and competitive pay and benefits package. (Use below bullets for United States, delete for Global positions)
  • Our total rewards package includes, but not limited to; competitive wages consisting of base pay, bonus and/or incentive pay based on position, medical, dental, vision, life, disability, tuition reimbursement, 401k with match, and an Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
  • We work hard and we recharge. With competitive Paid Time Off (PTO) programs which includes vacation and sick and safe time, and eleven paid holidays our employees have ample time throughout the year to spend with family and friends, traveling or relaxing.
  • We are proud to support our employees and their growing families by offering ten weeks of paid maternity leave, four weeks of paid paternity leave, and three days of paid grandparents leave.
  • Both our newest and our most tenured employees are formally recognized. Our career milestones program ensures that our new team members feel welcome and rewards employees at five years, ten years, fifteen years and beyond.

Core Values:
  • Customer-Centric Innovation
  • Built to Last
  • Always Improving
  • Integrity

Salary Description
$65,000 - $85,000 + Incentive

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