ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Prototype Engineering Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

i3

Electrical Engineering Lead

Huntsville, AL

$149K - $155K/yr

Overview i3 is seeking a part-time Electrical Engineering Lead to support a unique and complex prototyping and development effort located in Huntsville, Alabama. This role will lead electrical system ...

Griffon Aerospace

Electronics Technician

Madison, AL · On-site

Support engineering development activities by assembling and testing prototype hardware * Collaborate with electrical engineers to identify and resolve issues during testing and production * Utilize ...

Griffon Aerospace

Electronics Technician

Madison, AL · On-site

Support engineering development activities by assembling and testing prototype hardware * Collaborate with electrical engineers to identify and resolve issues during testing and production * Utilize ...

Griffon Aerospace

Electronics Technician

Madison, AL · On-site

Support engineering development activities by assembling and testing prototype hardware * Collaborate with electrical engineers to identify and resolve issues during testing and production * Utilize ...

Johnson Outdoors

Electrical Engineer

Eufaula, AL

Evaluates prototype design(s) for performance and reliability. · Writes products specifications ... engineering files, supplier communications and Engineering Change Orders (ECO's). · Assists ...

Johnson Outdoors Inc.

Electrical Engineer

Eufaula, AL

Performs prototype design experimentation, rapid prototype and conventional prototype fabrication ... Produces project documentation that includes prints, engineering files, supplier communications and ...

Johnson Outdoors

Electrical Engineer

Eufaula, AL · On-site

Evaluates prototype design(s) for performance and reliability. • Writes products specifications ... engineering files, supplier communications and Engineering Change Orders (ECO's). • Assists ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsPrototype Engineering JobsPrototype Engineering Jobs in Alabama

Prototype Engineering information

See Alabama salary details

$26

$33

$35

How much do prototype engineering jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for prototype engineering in Alabama is $33.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $31.15 and $34.86 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.
What are popular job titles related to Prototype Engineering jobs in Alabama? For Prototype Engineering jobs in Alabama, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Prototype Engineering jobs in Alabama look for? The top searched job categories for Prototype Engineering jobs in Alabama are:
Prototype Engineering jobs near you
Electrical Engineering Lead

Electrical Engineering Lead

Integration Innovation, Inc.

Huntsville, AL • On-site

$149K - $155K/yr

Part-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

Job description

i3 is seeking a part-time Electrical Engineering Lead to support a unique and complex prototyping and development effort located in Huntsville, Alabama. This role will lead electrical system design, development, integration, test, troubleshooting, and documentation across the prototyping lifecycle. The ideal candidate brings senior-level technical judgment, strong hands-on lab experience, and the ability to drive execution in a fast-paced modular environment. The candidate can expect up to 10% travel.

This is a part-time position.


  • Develop and execute test procedures, verification plans, and acceptance criteria to ensure compliance with requirements.
  • Lead design package reviews, providing expertise on schematics, PCB layouts, and component selections.
  • Own test documentation and technical reporting, providing data-driven recommendations during design reviews.
  • Lead troubleshooting of hardware issues, including wiring faults, power distribution problems, and signal integrity concerns.
  • Drive system integration activities, including prototype builds, functional verification, and coordination with senior engineers.
  • Develop and maintain lab work instructions, wiring diagrams, and build notes to ensure repeatable testing and assembly.
  • Manage lab instrumentation readiness, including oscilloscopes, spectrum analyzers, network analyzers, power supplies, multimeters, and signal generators.
  • Partner with engineering leadership and cross-functional design teams to shape design-for-testability (DFT), manufacturability, and production-readiness.
  • Lead electrical testing and validation of digital, analog, RF, and mixed-signal systems using standard lab equipment.
  • Lead lab process improvements, including workflow optimization, calibration planning, and safety protocol implementation.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Required:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or related field.
  • 15 years of experience in electrical test, integration, or lab engineering.
  • Advanced hands-on expertise with test equipment (oscilloscopes, spectrum/network analyzers, power supplies, signal generators, continuity testers).
  • Ability to develop, lead, execute, and document test procedures with attention to detail and repeatability.
  • Proficiency in Python, C, or C++ for test automation, scripting, or data analysis.
  • Strong knowledge of circuit fundamentals, wiring, connectors, and power distribution systems.
  • Ability to create and review schematics, wiring diagrams, and technical documentation.
  • Excellent troubleshooting skills and a structured approach to root-cause analysis and problem solving.
  • U.S. Citizenship. 
  • Must possess and maintain an active Top Secret security clearance.

Desired:

  • Experience using ECAD tools (Altium, OrCAD, AutoCAD Electrical, SolidWorks Electrical, EPLAN).
  • Experience reviewing PCB design reviews, supporting embedded firmware debugging, or conducting signal analysis.
  • Knowledge of mil-spec components, cabling standards, and DoD test environments.
  • Experience managing design and test artifacts using configuration management or PLM tools.
  • Hands-on experience with RF systems, EMI/EMC testing, and digital signal processing (DSP).

Physical Demands:

  • The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.
  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear. The employee frequently is required to stand; walk; handle or feel; and reach with hands and arms.
  • The employee is occasionally required to sit; climb or balance; and stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl. The employee must be able to lift and/or move up to 10 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.
  • Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus.
  • Regular i3 hours are 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Monday-Friday, however, additional hours may be required on occasion. Regular and punctual attendance is required.

i3 is a technically diverse, 100% team member owned business, headquartered in Huntsville, Alabama specializing in missile and aviation systems engineering and logistic services, electronic warfare and electromagnetic effects analysis, UAS system integration and flight operations, full lifecycle C5ISR engineering services, cybersecurity and IT/IA innovative solutions and virtual training, simulation & serious game development and implementation. We have established a broad offering of products and capabilities collectively providing decades of experience supporting the full complement of DoD military services, Missile Defense Agency, National Aeronautics and Space Administration, and a variety of other Government organizations and private industry customers.  

Perks of being a team member owner include:

  • Long-term financial security
  • Higher job satisfaction
  • Greater job security
  • Personal and professional growth
  • Great company culture

Other outstanding benefits:

  • Excellent insurance coverage
  • 401(k) match
  • Generous PTO
  • Health and wellness incentives
  • Tuition and certification reimbursement
  • Countless opportunities to give back to the community through i3 Cares

 

We work hard. We compete hard. We play hard. Apply now to join us!

Apply