1

Prototype Engineer Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

... and prototype tooling and finish machining. RESPONSIBILITIES: including but not limited to: • ... in an engineering discipline • 5+ years of mechanical design and machine shop experience ...

New

Senior Electrical Engineer

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$92K - $120K/yr

... prototype evaluation, equipment upgrades, and documentation updates Drive quality assurance compliance and structured engineering processes Produce highquality reports, evaluations, and ...

Senior Electrical Engineer

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$92K - $120K/yr

... prototype evaluation, equipment upgrades, and documentation updates • Drive quality assurance compliance and structured engineering processes • Produce highquality reports, evaluations, and ...

Senior Electrical Engineer

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$92K - $120K/yr

... prototype evaluation, equipment upgrades, and documentation updates • Drive quality assurance compliance and structured engineering processes • Produce high-quality reports, evaluations, and ...

Quality Engineer

Rockford, TN · On-site

$65K - $84K/yr

Support prototype builds (document according to prototype checklist inspection process). * Collect ... Engineering specifications and understanding

Quality Engineer

Rockford, TN

$65K - $84K/yr

Support prototype builds (document according to prototype checklist inspection process). * Collect ... Engineering specifications and understanding

Quality Engineer

Rockford, TN · On-site

$65K - $84K/yr

Support prototype builds (document according to prototype checklist inspection process). * Collect ... Engineering specifications and understanding

Drive prototype, engineering and production builds, cost optimization, and production readiness * Ensure seamless IoT integration and certification (Alexa, Google Home, Apple Home, Matter, Wi‑Fi ...

New

Sr. Specialist, Mechanical Engineer

Nashville, TN · On-site

$100K - $133K/yr

... support prototype design, built, and test efforts. - Document mechanical design decisions and release-ready engineering artifacts. - Execute engineering work products from requirements through ...

Mechanical Design Engineer

Portland, TN · On-site

$69K - $93K/yr

In this position, you will develop prototypes and machines, build CAD models and drawings, design ... Perform basic engineering checks related to loads, force, torque, motion, clearances, tolerance ...

Mechanical Design Engineer

Portland, TN · On-site

$69K - $93K/yr

In this position, you will develop prototypes and machines, build CAD models and drawings, design ... Perform basic engineering checks related to loads, force, torque, motion, clearances, tolerance ...

Showing results 41-60

Prototype Engineer information

See Tennessee salary details

$26

$33

$35

How much do prototype engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for prototype engineer in Tennessee is $33.11, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $31.20 and $34.90 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 Tennessee?

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Prototype Engineer job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $68,859 per year, or $33.1 per hour.

Mechanical Engineer

MillenniTEK

Knoxville, TN • On-site

Other

Posted 2 days ago

New


Job description

You will have the opportunity to utilize your knowledge, experience, and creativity to develop novel solutions at the forefront of nuclear technology. You will work on components that serve a critical function in nuclear reactors already in commercial operation, and also currently being designed, built, and tested. You will provide input into the design and development of new products and take a lead role in production and prototype tooling and finish machining.


RESPONSIBILITIES: including but not limited to:

• Develop machining capability in-house and deliver high-quality precision parts to our Quality department

• Design and machine production tooling/fixturing and finished part prototypes.

• Analyze customer part drawings for DFM to ensure that the parts are optimized for manufacturing

• Review quality concerns from piece part inspections and develop solutions

• Identify, recommend, procure, and install machine shop equipment as well as ensure all equipment is thoroughly maintained and calibrated

• Responsible for cost optimization and cost reduction initiatives associated with machining processes

• Develop, evaluate, and improve manufacturing and machining methodologies and techniques

• Collaborate with external machine shop facilities to address capacity and scheduling issues as necessary

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in an engineering discipline

• 5+ years of mechanical design and machine shop experience

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

• Experience setting up and operating state-of-the art machining equipment

• Ceramic machining processes, including wire edm, diamond grinding, and CNC milling

• Well versed in standard machine shop manufacturing processes and set ups

• Experience operating CNCs, conventional lathe and mill machines, and other machine shop equipment used to manufacture high-precision parts

• Demonstrated proficiency in CNC programming

• Well versed in GD&T and inspection procedures

• Experienced with a variety of precision conventional and advance metrology systems (CMMs, 3D imaging)

• Expert in SolidWorks, MasterCAM, and/or similar software programs