ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Prototype Engineering Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

ROUSH

Prototype Program Manager

Livonia, MI · On-site

At Roush, we fuse technology and engineering to provide product development solutions to customers in a diverse range of industries. Widely recognized for providing engineering, testing, prototype ...

Rivian

Prototyping Manufacturing Engineer

Plymouth, MI · On-site

$78K - $97K/yr

This is an engineering position, ideal for individuals who enjoy working with their hands, problem solving, and contributing to advanced manufacturing prototype processes. Responsibilities * Daily ...

Rivian

Prototyping Manufacturing Engineer

Plymouth, MI

$78K - $97K/yr

This is an engineering position, ideal for individuals who enjoy working with their hands, problem solving, and contributing to advanced manufacturing prototype processes. Responsibilities * Daily ...

Autodesk

Intern, Model Based Systems Engineering

Novi, MI · Hybrid

$15.75 - $20.50/hr

In this role you will investigate and prototype a model-based systems engineering (MBSE) approach tailored for the conceptual design of small-scale mechanical assemblies. The intern will explore ...

dmsmanufacdet

Engineering Co-Op

Detroit, MI

$16.50 - $21.50/hr

Participate in the design and prototyping of automotive components or systems. * Collaborate with engineers to create CAD models, prototypes, and test plans. * Assist in testing and validation ...

Detroit Manufacturing Systems

Engineering Co-Op

Detroit, MI · On-site

$16.50 - $21.50/hr

Participate in the design and prototyping of automotive components or systems. * Collaborate with engineers to create CAD models, prototypes, and test plans. * Assist in testing and validation ...

Autodesk

Intern, Model Based Systems Engineering

Novi, MI · Hybrid

$15.75 - $20.50/hr

In this role you will investigate and prototype a model-based systems engineering (MBSE) approach tailored for the conceptual design of small-scale mechanical assemblies. The intern will explore ...

Gonzalez Group

Controls Hardware Designer II

Pontiac, MI · On-site

... prototype engineering and manufacturing. We value diversity, teamwork, and tradition. Gonzalez offers medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance, HSA contribution, 401K profit sharing ...

Gonzalez Group

Controls Hardware Designer II

Pontiac, MI · On-site

... prototype engineering and manufacturing. We value diversity, teamwork, and tradition. Gonzalez offers medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance, HSA contribution, 401K profit sharing ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsPrototype Engineering JobsPrototype Engineering Jobs in Michigan

Prototype Engineering information

See Michigan salary details

$25

$31

$33

How much do prototype engineering jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for prototype engineering in Michigan is $31.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $29.95 and $33.51 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 Michigan? For Prototype Engineering jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Prototype Engineering jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Prototype Engineering jobs in Michigan are:
Prototype Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Prototype Engineering job openings in Michigan as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 44% Full Time, and 56% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $66,126 per year, or $31.8 per hour.

Prototype Lab & Test Engineer

PROTERIAL CABLE AMERICA, INC

Farmington, MI • On-site

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago

Job description

Position Summary

This position is responsible to build prototypes as well as test products to ensure performance and compliance to regulatory & customer requirements. Work is primarily located in R&D facilities with use of several types of technical equipment. Responsible Engineer will be required to operate equipment, produce analysis of test data, write reports, and partake in discussion over product performance.

Essential Responsibilities

To ensure success as a engineer, one should be highly mechanically inclined, have a passion for design and testing, and be willing to work under pressure to achieve Customer deadlines.

  • Test Products for satety, compliance and performance
  • Examine and investigate specific aspects and components of products
  • Compiling reports on findings and testing data gathered
  • Maintaining lab and testing equipment regularly
  • Implementing changes in testing protocols as required
  • Recommending techical and procedural additions to test processes
  • Troubleshoot and repair of industrial automation equipment, including knowledge of hydraulics, pneumatics, mechanical systems (cams, gears), and industrial electronics
  • Ensure all tests are executed by the plan and within specifications outlined
  • Monitors product on test (understands test suites), and test equipment for faults and diagnoses and corrects equipment issues
  • Maintains test data files, and databases and reports test status and non-conformances to engineering teams
  • Ability to read assembly prints and assemble units per print
  • Measure parts as necessary to confirm conformance to drawings.
  • Work overtime as required.
  • Perform all other responsibilities as designated by the supervisor.
  • Design, modify or fabricate experimental parts used in development
  • Perform evaluations on products and components with minimal to no supervision
  • Select and install new lab equipment as necessary
  • Manage multiple demanding deadlines
  • Fabricate test fixtures, prepare and conduct bench and field tests

Education and Experience

  • An Engineering degree in non-destructive testing, applied technology, or similar.
  • 5+ years’ experience with Laboratory Test & Prototype Build Experience
  • Experience operating laboratory test equipment typical to product development environments
  • Proficiency in testing procedures and protocols.
  • Analytical thinking and abilities.
  • Report writing and document analysis skills.
  • Ability to work with data and numbers.
  • Problem-solving skills and decisive knowledge of appropriate testing methods.
  • Ability to work unsupervised.
  • Familiarity with ISO / TS16949, APQP procedures and deliverables
  • Proficient with Computers and MS Product Suite.
  • Ability to use CAD tools & 3D Printing systems


Physical / Safety Requirements

  • Position involves extended standing periods
  • Employees must have the ability to lift up to 50 pounds occasionally


An Affirmative Action / Equal Opportunity Employer

Proterial Cable America provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, or veteran status. As a Federal Contractor, we encourage priority referral of protected veterans under VEVRAA.