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Prototype Engineer Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

Signature Science LLC

Controls Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

$60K/yr

As a Controls Engineer, you will be instrumental in the design, development, implementation, and ... Design, procure, and assemble custom PCBs to support the transition from prototype to production

Interlune

Mechanical Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$110K - $195K/yr

Interlune is seeking an early-career mechanical engineer to design, prototype, and validate hardware destined for the lunar surface. The primary focus of this role involves developing mission ...

1Britcom

Mechanical Engineer

Houston, TX

$95K - $120K/yr

This role is responsible for taking concepts from initial idea through detailed design, prototyping ... engineering drawings for manufacturing Work with team members to drive projects from concept ...

Sparx Engineering

Mechanical Design Engineer

Houston, TX

$72K - $98K/yr

Build and test prototypes of complex systems * Troubleshoot and resolve design issues * Participate ... Collaborate with electrical and software engineers throughout the development process Requirements ...

Skyways

Mechanical Engineer

Austin, TX

We are transitioning from prototype development to full-rate production and scaling toward large ... Engineers in this role work directly with hardware and see their designs move quickly from concept ...

Sparx Engineering

Mechanical Design Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$72K - $98K/yr

Build and test prototypes of complex systems * Troubleshoot and resolve design issues * Participate ... Collaborate with electrical and software engineers throughout the development process Requirements ...

Sparx Engineering

Mechanical Design Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$72K - $98K/yr

Build and test prototypes of complex systems * Troubleshoot and resolve design issues * Participate ... Collaborate with electrical and software engineers throughout the development process Requirements ...

Last Energy

R&D Operations Engineer

Austin, TX

$68K - $93K/yr

Last Energy is seeking a highly skilled and motivated R&D Operations Engineer to lead our rapid prototyping and internal manufacturing capabilities. This is a critical, hands-on role that requires a ...

Skyways

Mechanical Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

We are transitioning from prototype development to full-rate production and scaling toward large ... Engineers in this role work directly with hardware and see their designs move quickly from concept ...

Skyways

Mechanical Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

We are transitioning from prototype development to full-rate production and scaling toward large ... Engineers in this role work directly with hardware and see their designs move quickly from concept ...

Last Energy

R&D Operations Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

$68K - $93K/yr

Last Energy is seeking a highly skilled and motivated R&D Operations Engineer to lead our rapid prototyping and internal manufacturing capabilities. This is a critical, hands-on role that requires a ...

Apptronik

Electrical Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

JOB SUMMARY We're looking for Electrical Engineers to develop electronics for the Apollo humanoid ... Rapid prototyping of electrical systems at both system and board levels. * Simulate and verify ...

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Prototype Engineer information

See Texas salary details

$27

$33

$36

How much do prototype engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for prototype engineer in Texas is $33.98, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $32.02 and $35.82 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
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What are popular job titles related to Prototype Engineer jobs in Texas? For Prototype Engineer jobs in Texas, the most frequently searched job titles are:
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What are popular job titles related to Prototype Engineer jobs in TX? For Prototype Engineer jobs in TX, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Prototype Engineer jobs near you
Controls Engineer

Controls Engineer

Signature Science LLC

Austin, TX • On-site

$60K/yr

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

Position Purpose:
dwohlfahrt 16.00 Normal 0 false false false EN-US X-NONE X-NONE
Are you ready to make a meaningful difference in public health and national security? Signature Science is seeking a highly motivated and skilled Controls Engineer to join our dedicated team. This pivotal role offers you the opportunity to directly contribute to projects safeguarding national defense and enhancing chemical/biological safety. As a Controls Engineer, you will be instrumental in the design, development, implementation, and maintenance of robust control systems, ensuring the precise and secure operation of complex scientific and engineering equipment within critical environments. Your expertise will be essential in protecting our nation and advancing vital safety initiatives.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
  • dwohlfahrt 16.00 Normal 0 false false false EN-US X-NONE X-NONE
    Design and implement control architectures for prototype microfluidic systems in collaboration with other engineers and scientists.
  • Integrate sensors and other equipment into pre-existing industrial control architectures.
  • Design, procure, and assemble custom PCBs to support the transition from prototype to production
  • Work with other disciplines to develop test procedures and quality control methods to ensure consistent system performance and reliability.
  • Contribute to the development and maintenance of laboratory standard operating procedures (SOPs).
  • Troubleshoot issues, solve difficult technical issues, and analyze data using industry best practices.
  • Identify novel research directions and potential funding opportunities.
  • Maintain accurate and detailed laboratory records and documentation.
  • Collaborate effectively with a multidisciplinary team of scientists and engineers.
  • Present research findings at internal and external meetings.
  • Stay current with the scientific literature and advancements in the field.
  • Contribute to the preparation of technical reports and publications

Required Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:
  • dwohlfahrt 16.00 Normal 0 false false false EN-US X-NONE X-NONE
    Minimum 3 years of experience designing, integrating, and testing control strategies for prototype hardware, preferably related to microfluidics, lab-on-a-chip, and flow chemistry systems.
  • Demonstrated experience using microcontrollers and single board computers (e.g. Arduino, Raspberry Pi) to control and automate prototype systems.
  • Experience establishing serial communication protocols (RS-232, SPI, I2C, UART, RS-485, CAN, etc.) for interfacing and data transfer.
  • Familiarity with the translation of P&ID documentation into PLC control algorithms for industrial applications.
  • Proficiency with circuit design, PCB layout (using Altium Designer, Eagle, or similar tools), and hands-on soldering and assembly skills.
  • Experience designing and implementing battery-powered electronics, with an emphasis on low-power circuit design and energy management.
  • Ability to collaborate with cross-functional teams, including mechanical engineers, chemists, biologists, software engineers, and manufacturing personnel.
  • Excellent troubleshooting, analytical, and detailed documentation skills for iterative prototyping, validation, and transfer to production.
  • Excellent record-keeping and documentation skills.
  • Familiarity with sensors and actuators relevant to fluid handling, including pressure sensors, flow sensors, valves, pumps, and temperature controllers.
  • Knowledge of fluid dynamics, particularly as applied to microfluidic or precision fluid-handling systems.
  • Working knowledge of molecular biology and chemistry workflows like PCR and flow chemistry reactions
  • Experience using emerging AI tools or agentic AI systems to achieve specific objectives in a laboratory.
  • Experience transitioning prototypes into small-scale production, including component selection for manufacturability, process optimization, and documentation for repeatability.
  • Domain knowledge / BizDev
  • Prior experience in a public health or national security-focused research or development environment.
  • Experience in grant writing or technical report preparation.

Education/Experience:
  • dwohlfahrt 16.00 Normal 0 false false false EN-US X-NONE X-NONE Bachelor's degree or higher in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, or a related discipline.

Certificates/Licenses:
  • None required

Clearance:
  • dwohlfahrt 16.00 Normal 0 false false false EN-US X-NONE X-NONE This position requires that the candidate be willing and able to complete a successful background screening for a security clearance. Candidates with an active security clearance will receive preference

Supervisory Responsibilities:
  • None

Working Conditions/ Equipment:
dwohlfahrt 16.00 Normal 0 false false false EN-US X-NONE X-NONE This is a full-time, fully on-site position. This position primarily operates during standard business hours, with occasional needs for extended workdays or weekend work to meet project timelines. A significant portion of this role (approximately 50%) involves hands-on laboratory work. You should be comfortable spending extended periods of time conducting experiments and working at a computer. The role may also require occasional domestic travel for conferences, trade shows, or research-related meetings. The ability to lift and carry light loads (under 25 lbs) without assistance is necessary.
The above job description is not intended to be an all-inclusive list of duties and standards of the position. Incumbents will follow any other instructions, and perform any other related duties, as assigned by their supervisor.

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