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Prototype Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

suncast

Prototype Technician

Batavia, IL · On-site

$24 - $26/hr

We utilize state-of-the-art machinery and innovative manufacturing techniques to consistently engineer products of the highest possible quality. Position Summary: The prototype technician is ...

suncast

Prototype Technician

Batavia, IL · On-site

$24 - $26/hr

We utilize state-of-the-art machinery and innovative manufacturing techniques to consistently engineer products of the highest possible quality. Position Summary: The prototype technician is ...

Dynomax Inc.

Prototype Machinist

Wheeling, IL · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Prototype Machinist Dynomax, Inc is developing and building exciting machines and automation! We ... Milling, programming, indicating, measurement, and tool selection * Manual machining, CNC machining ...

Mercury Plastics, Inc

Be Seen First

Prototype & Production Coordinator

Chicago, IL · On-site

$32 - $35/hr

Job Title: Prototype & Production Coordinator Status: Non- Exempt Company Overview: Mercury ... engineering files and drawings from time to time. · Employee may be required to perform other ...

Morningstar, Inc.

Associate AI Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$85K/yr

Prototypes validate advisor workflows quickly and reliably * Downstream production engineers can operationalize prototypes with minimal friction * Team moves from idea → evidence → validated ...

Morningstar, Inc.

AI Product Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$145K - $182K/yr

Prototypes validate advisor workflows quickly and reliably * Downstream production engineers can operationalize prototypes with minimal friction * Team moves from idea → evidence → validated ...

Amplify HR

AI Development Engineer

Northbrook, IL · Hybrid

$110K - $130K/yr

Key Responsibilities Build and iterate AI prototypes that can do tens of thousands of financial and pricing calculations to consistently find the best outcomes across PEO workflows including benefits ...

Comrise

Mechanical Design Engineer

Buffalo Grove, IL · On-site

$45 - $50/hr

Hands-on experience with prototype builds, laboratory testing, or product validation. * Experience ... Cost Reduction / Value Engineering * Prototype Development * Root Cause Analysis If you're ...

New

JLL

Staff Data Engineer

Westmont, IL · On-site

You will be expected to go from concept to working prototype in days, not months, while maintaining ... on engineering across data and AI agents, and the interpersonal skills to earn trust, drive ...

Huntington

Principal Innovation Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$102K - $208K/yr

Architect and build end-to-end prototypes and reusable assets, including AI-enabled applications ... Establish and evolve engineering standards for innovation delivery (reference architectures ...

JLL

Staff Data Engineer

Chicago, IL

You will be expected to go from concept to working prototype in days, not months, while maintaining ... on engineering across data and AI agents, and the interpersonal skills to earn trust, drive ...

Huntington

Principal Innovation Engineer

Rosemont, IL

$102K - $208K/yr

Architect and build end-to-end prototypes and reusable assets, including AI-enabled applications ... Establish and evolve engineering standards for innovation delivery (reference architectures ...

Huntington

Principal Innovation Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

Architect and build end-to-end prototypes and reusable assets, including AI-enabled applications ... Establish and evolve engineering standards for innovation delivery (reference architectures ...

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Prototype Engineer information

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How much do prototype engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for prototype engineer in Chicago, IL is $37.57, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $35.43 and $39.62 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
Prototype Technician

Prototype Technician

suncast

Batavia, IL • On-site

$24 - $26/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago

Job description

Suncast Corporation is the leading US-based designer, manufacturer, and distributor of high-quality resin products for the home and industrial markets. A privately held company headquartered in Western Chicago, Illinois, Suncast prides itself on 35 years of innovation and sustainability across a wide range of product categories with materials proudly sourced in the USA. Everything we do is supported by the strength and ingenuity of American workers and we are committed to helping families across the country make the most of their unique spaces. We utilize state-of-the-art machinery and innovative manufacturing techniques to consistently engineer products of the highest possible quality.

Position Summary:

The prototype technician is responsible for supporting the model maker in all aspects of making prototypes and models and in the daily upkeep and organization of the model shop. This can include painting, sanding, ordering supplies, cleaning, running a 3D printer, and hand assembling prototypes.

Responsibilities:

  • Design Work with model maker to determine best prototyping method possible to achieve desired result.
  • Work with model maker to learn new methods of decorating or finishing the prototypes that conform with sales, industrial design, and engineering objectives.
  • Apply required surface finish to all prototypes.  This may include but is not limited to sand, paint, and sandblast techniques.  Operate pneumatic spray paint equipment and paint booths.  Learn to Mix and color match paints as needed.
  • Ensure that all materials used for models and prototypes are used and stored in accordance with manufacturers’ recommendations.
  • Ensure that Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) are available for all materials used for models and prototypes.  These must be received with the shipment of materials.  File these according to company policy by locating them in central storage area.
  • Read, understand, and follow MSDS at all times.
  • Maintain cleanliness of model shop and model shop storage areas.  Conduct twice daily cleaning of all model shop areas, including an end of shift inspection of all model shop areas.  Perform monthly re-organization of model shop storage areas to remove old or obsolete prototypes or project materials.
  • Develop a model shop supply list and place purchase orders as needed to maintain adequate stock of commonly used materials.
  • Support and comply with all Suncast safety policies, quality standards, and housekeeping methods always. 
  • Coordinate the packaging/crating of prototypes for shipment.
  • Perform additional duties as required.

Requirements:

  • Associate’s degree or completion of a two-year technical program preferred.
  • Hands-on experience with tools, equipment, painting, or fabrication strongly desired.
  • Ability to read technical documents and communicate effectively.
  • Basic math and strong problem-solving skills.
  • CAD/SolidWorks experience required; familiarity with CNC and 3D printing a plus.
  • Basic computer skills (Word, Excel).
  • Active role; standing for long periods and lifting up to 50 lbs.
  • Workshop/manufacturing setting with moderate noise; PPE required.
  • Flexibility to work overtime or weekends as needed.

The Anticipated Pay Range for This Position:  $24.00-$26.00 hourly

Suncast offers a comprehensive benefits package including:

  • Medical, Dental, Prescription Drugs, Vision insurance, Telehealth benefits
  • Group Term Life insurance
  • 401K with employer match
  • Paid vacation time off
  • Paid holidays
  • Short- and long-term disability coverage
  • Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) & Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) for health
  • Paid Parental Leave (maternity & paternity)
  • Tuition Reimbursement

All qualified applicants will be given equal consideration regardless of race, age, sex, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, color, religion, protected veteran status or national origin.

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