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Prototype Engineering Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Recar

Intern, Prototype Engineering

Troy, MI

$16 - $20.50/hr

Support the design, build, and iteration of vehicle and subsystem prototypes, including mechanical, electrical, and thermal components. * Assist engineers with prototype assembly, teardown ...

New

Premier Staffing Solution

Prototype Engineer

Irvine, CA

$38.50 - $43/hr

This role ensures the accuracy of part data through collaboration with Prototype Engineering and regular alignment checks. Crucially, the analyst will also manage logistics data analysis, monitor ...

Premier Staffing Solution

Prototype Engineer

Irvine, CA

$38.50 - $43/hr

This role ensures the accuracy of part data through collaboration with Prototype Engineering and regular alignment checks. Crucially, the analyst will also manage logistics data analysis, monitor ...

Teak Isle Manufacturing Inc.

Prototype Engineer

Ocoee, FL · On-site

$60K - $65K/yr

Prototype Engineer About the Company: Teak Isle Manufacturing, located in Ocoee, Florida and is the leader in the design and fabrication of custom OEM and Retail parts for the Marine and other ...

TEAK ISLE INC

Prototype Engineer

Ocoee, FL · On-site

$60K - $65K/yr

... prototype drawings. ● Prepare solid models for CNC programmers to create toolpaths from. ● Work with prototype builders to improve and correct any issues with the original prototype, then ...

TEAK ISLE INC

Prototype Engineer

Ocoee, FL · On-site

$60K - $65K/yr

... prototype drawings. ● Prepare solid models for CNC programmers to create toolpaths from. ● Work with prototype builders to improve and correct any issues with the original prototype, then ...

Brightwing

Prototype Build Engineer

Auburn Hills, MI · On-site

$35 - $38/hr

The Prototype Build Engineer will be responsible for managing all prototype build activities ... Bachelor's degree in engineering (Mechanical, Aerospace, Mechatronics) 0-3 years engineering ...

Knowmadics

Rapid Prototype Engineer II

Wichita, KS · On-site

$32 - $35.75/hr

Collaborate with cross-functional engineering teams to support rapid development cycles. * Complete ... Professional experience working in prototyping labs, machine shops, or makerspace environments.

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Prototype Engineering information

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How much do prototype engineering jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for prototype engineering in the United States is $36.48, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $34.38 and $38.46 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What's a design engineer's salary?

A design engineer's salary varies based on experience, location, and industry, but typically ranges from $70,000 to $110,000 annually. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced engineers with specialized skills or certifications can earn over $120,000. Skills in CAD software and project management can influence compensation.

What are some common challenges faced by prototype engineers during the product development process?

Prototype engineers often encounter challenges such as tight development timelines, limited resources, and evolving design requirements. They must frequently adapt to changes based on feedback from testing and cross-functional teams, which requires flexibility and strong problem-solving skills. Additionally, balancing functionality, manufacturability, and cost during rapid prototyping can be demanding, but it provides valuable experience in innovative thinking and collaboration.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as software engineering, petroleum engineering, and aerospace engineering can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and leadership roles. High compensation often involves working in high-demand industries, holding managerial positions, or possessing rare technical expertise and certifications.

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 a solid background in mechanical or electrical engineering, strong problem-solving abilities, and hands-on experience with prototyping methods. Familiarity with CAD software, rapid prototyping tools like 3D printers, and knowledge of manufacturing processes are typically required. Creativity, adaptability, and effective communication help Prototype Engineers collaborate with cross-functional teams and iterate designs efficiently. These skills are crucial for transforming innovative ideas into functional prototypes that support product development and innovation.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as software engineering, petroleum engineering, and aerospace engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of base salary, bonuses, and stock options. These roles typically require extensive experience, advanced skills, and sometimes leadership responsibilities or working in high-cost-of-living areas.

What is the difference between Prototype Engineering vs Mechanical Design?

AspectPrototype EngineeringMechanical Design
Primary FocusDeveloping, building, and testing prototypes to validate conceptsCreating detailed mechanical parts and assemblies for products
Required SkillsHands-on fabrication, rapid prototyping, testing methodsCAD modeling, technical drawings, design analysis
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, workshops, manufacturing settingsDesign offices, CAD labs, engineering departments
Common CertificationsNone specific, often practical experienceProfessional engineering licenses, CAD certifications

Prototype Engineering and Mechanical Design are closely related roles in product development. Prototype engineers focus on building and testing physical models to validate concepts, while mechanical designers create detailed plans and models for manufacturing. Both roles often collaborate but serve different stages of the product development process.

What is prototype engineering?

Prototype engineering is the process of designing, building, and testing early models of products or components to evaluate their functionality, performance, and feasibility. Prototype engineers work closely with designers and product developers to turn ideas into tangible models, which can be used for testing and refinement before mass production. This helps identify design flaws, improve product quality, and reduce development costs. Prototype engineering plays a crucial role in industries such as automotive, electronics, and consumer products, where rapid innovation and iteration are essential.

What does a prototype engineer do?

A prototype engineer designs, develops, and tests early models of products to evaluate concepts and functionality. They use CAD software, 3D printing, and testing tools to refine designs and ensure feasibility before mass production. Strong problem-solving skills and knowledge of materials are essential in this role.
More about Prototype Engineering jobs
What cities are hiring for Prototype Engineering jobs? Cities with the most Prototype Engineering job openings:
What states have the most Prototype Engineering jobs? States with the most job openings for Prototype Engineering jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Prototype Engineering jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Prototype Engineering jobs are:
Prototype Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Prototype Engineering job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 33% Full Time, and 67% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $75,868 per year, or $36.5 per hour.
Intern, Prototype Engineering

Intern, Prototype Engineering

Recar

Troy, MI

$16 - $20.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

Job description

ABOUT SLATE

At Slate, we're building safe, reliable vehicles that people can afford, personalize and love-and doing it here in the USA as part of our commitment to reindustrialization. The spirit of DIY and customization runs throughout every element of a Slate, because people should have control over how their trucks look, feel, and represent them.

| WHO WE ARE LOOKING FOR

Slate is seeking an Intern, Prototype Engineering to do hands-on, real-world engineering work that directly contributes to the performance, comfort, and refinement of our vehicles. You will support the development, testing, and optimization of vehicle performance and functionality attributes across multiple systems and components.

This role combines analytical work, instrumentation, on-vehicle testing, and collaboration with cross functional engineering groups such as Chassis, Electrical, and Powertrain. This is a hands-on position where you will instrument vehicles to identify issues and develop data mining tools to categorize the conditions that lead to root cause identification.

| WHAT YOU GET TO DO

  • Support the design, build, and iteration of vehicle and subsystem prototypes, including mechanical, electrical, and thermal components.
  • Assist engineers with prototype assembly, teardown, modification, and testing in a fast-paced EV development environment.
  • Develop and document prototype processes, test plans, and results to support design validation and rapid design changes.
  • Work cross-functionally with design, manufacturing, and test teams to resolve fit, function, and performance issues.
  • Utilize basic CAD tools, measurement equipment, and shop tools to fabricate, modify, and evaluate prototype parts.
  • Help track prototype parts, configurations, and changes, ensuring accurate documentation and build integrity.
  • Develop hands-on experience in fabricating and reworking prototype components.
  • Gain practical experience with industry-standard tools and software, including CATIA, Polarion (for project management), and CANalyzer.

| WHAT YOU BRING TO THE TEAM

  • Pursuit of a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.
  • Must be currently enrolled in an accredited degree program.
  • Must be graduating between December 2026 and May 2029.
  • Must have at least a 3.0 GPA or higher.
  • Must be able to work full-time (40 hours per week).
  • Strong interest in gaining hands-on experience in a prototype engineering environment.
  • Ability to interpret and understand engineering drawings and technical documentation.
  • Highly adaptable and proactive.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate with cross functional teams to achieve common goals.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • Comfortable working in both laboratory and vehicle / plant environments.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Outlook, Teams, Word, Excel, PowerPoint).

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

  • Must have the ability to travel (up to 10%).
  • Must have the ability to lift up to 35 pounds.
  • Must have the ability to stand, walk, and perform repetitive tasks for extended periods.

WHY JOIN TEAM SLATE?

At Slate, we're fueled by grit, determination, and attention to detail. The start-up spirit of ingenuity and resourcefulness move our business forward. Team Slate fosters a culture of excellence, innovation, and mutual respect, and is motivated by shared principles.

  • Safety First

  • Delight Customers

  • One Team

  • Relentless Improvement

  • Fast, Frugal, and Scrappy

  • Respectful Collaboration

  • Positive Legacy

WE WANT TO WORK WITH PEOPLE THAT REFLECT THE COMMUNITIES IN WHICH WE OPERATE.

Slate is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, veteran status, marital status, parental status, cultural background, organizational level, work styles, tenure and life experiences. Or for any other reason.

Slate is committed to providing reasonable accommodation for qualified individuals with disabilities in our job application procedures. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, you may contact us at

slate-talent_acquisition@slate.auto.

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