1

Prototype Machinist Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Machinist

Greenfield, IN · On-site

$19.75 - $27/hr

Experience machining one-off prototype parts and custom tooling. * Familiarity with Autodesk Inventor and the ability to interpret 3D models is a plus. Required Education and Experience: * Experience ...

Be Seen First

CNC Machinist

Bloomfield, IN · On-site

$18 - $28/hr

We specialize in prototyping one off for our customers along with low volume machined components primarily for the defense industry. We are looking to immediately hire an experienced CNC machinist ...

MACHINIST-IND

Mooresville, IN · On-site

$21.50 - $29.25/hr

We are seeking a skilled and detail-oriented Machinist to join our growing manufacturing team and ... with prototype development, production support, and special manufacturing projects as needed.

CNC Machinist Programmer

Fort Wayne, IN · On-site

$24.25 - $35.55/hr

Basic Function In this position, the candidate will perform all functions necessary to program, prepare and machine new product prototypes and production tooling components in a fast-paced work ...

CNC Machinist Programmer

Fort Wayne, IN

$24.50 - $33.50/hr

Basic Function In this position, the candidate will perform all functions necessary to program, prepare and machine new product prototypes and production tooling components in a fast-paced work ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Prototype Machinist information

See Indiana salary details

$18

$28

$45

How much do prototype machinist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for prototype machinist in Indiana is $28.49, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.80 and $31.35 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Are machinists still in demand?

Machinists, including prototype machinists, are in steady demand due to ongoing manufacturing needs and the requirement for precision machining skills. Employment opportunities are expected to grow as industries such as aerospace, automotive, and medical device manufacturing continue to rely on skilled machinists with knowledge of CNC machines and technical certifications.

What is the highest paid machinist job?

The highest paid machinist roles are often specialized positions such as CNC programmer or precision machinist, especially those working in aerospace, defense, or medical device manufacturing. These roles typically require advanced skills, certifications, and experience, and can offer higher salaries compared to general machinist positions.

What does a prototype machinist do?

A prototype machinist designs, fabricates, and tests initial models of parts or products using precision machining tools such as CNC machines and lathes. They work closely with engineers to create functional prototypes, often requiring knowledge of CAD software and attention to detail to ensure accuracy and quality.

What does a typical workday look like for a Prototype Machinist?

A typical day for a Prototype Machinist involves interpreting technical drawings, setting up and operating machining equipment, and collaborating closely with engineers or product designers to create one-off or small-batch parts. You’ll routinely measure and inspect components, make adjustments on the fly, and document any design or process improvements. Expect a mix of independent hands-on work and teamwork, often in a prototyping lab or machine shop environment. Tight deadlines and evolving specifications mean flexibility and adaptability are key parts of the job, providing variety and opportunities to solve unique challenges daily.

What is a Prototype Machinist job?

A Prototype Machinist is responsible for creating precise, custom, or experimental parts based on design specifications, often for research and development. They use various machining tools like CNC machines, lathes, and mills to fabricate and modify components. This role requires strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to interpret technical drawings. Prototype Machinists work closely with engineers and designers to refine designs and ensure functionality before full-scale production.

Can a CNC machinist make 100k a year?

CNC machinists can potentially earn $100,000 annually with advanced skills, experience, and specialization in high-demand industries or complex machining tasks. Achieving this salary often requires overtime, certifications, and working in regions or companies that offer higher compensation for skilled operators.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Prototype Machinist position, and why are they important?

A Prototype Machinist excels with precision machining skills, blueprint reading, and experience operating both manual and CNC machine tools, usually backed by a technical diploma or apprenticeship. Familiarity with CAD/CAM software, measuring instruments, and sometimes relevant certifications like NIMS (National Institute for Metalworking Skills) is essential. Strong problem-solving, creativity, and effective communication skills help machinists collaborate with engineers and adapt to unique, evolving projects. These abilities enable the machinist to accurately fabricate custom prototypes and contribute to successful product development within tight deadlines.

What are popular job titles related to Prototype Machinist jobs in Indiana? For Prototype Machinist jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Prototype Machinist jobs in Indiana look for? The top searched job categories for Prototype Machinist jobs in Indiana are:
What are popular job titles related to Prototype Machinist jobs in IN? For Prototype Machinist jobs in IN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Prototype Machinist job openings in Indiana as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, and 9% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $59,259 per year, or $28.5 per hour.

Associate Prototype Machinist

SMC Corporation of America

Noblesville, IN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago


SMC Corporation Of America rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 16 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

305th of 487 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description

PURPOSE


This role is to provide engineering support in the form of manufacturing prototype components, modifying existing parts and assemblies and manufacturing jigs and fixtures within the organization. A successful candidate will be fluent using a variety of fabrication equipment with a knowledge of tools and operating parameters.


ESSENTIAL DUTIES


• Interpret internal and external customer requirements to meet desired outputs.

• Create prototypes based on engineering designs and specifications to meet quality standards and functional requirements.

• Communicate technical knowledge, specification, and direction to internal and external customers.

• Provide creative solutions to component designs in regard to manufacturability including troubleshooting issues, optimizing production efficiency, and implementing improvements.

• Setup, program, and utilize a variety of fabrication equipment including CNC and manual machines.

• Design and manufacture jigs, fixtures, and tooling to aid in the prototype manufacturing process.

• Recommend appropriate raw material selection for prototype components based on the engineering requirements and material availability.

• Perform routine inspection and preventative maintenance on equipment and tools to ensure optimal performance and maximize up-time.

• Provide training and guidance to other team members on proper equipment usage, maintenance procedures, and safety protocols.

• Create and input data utilizing corporate management system software that include part process documentation.

• Complete assigned tasks using predefined departmental processes.

• Hands on technical support for internal customers.

• Participate on a team to accomplish given tasks or processes.

• Travel mainly for the purpose of training. (minimal)

• All other activities as assigned.

• Record daily activities.


PHYSICAL DEMANDS/WORK ENVIRONMENT


• Capacity to work indoors in an office, laboratory, and/or manufacturing environment.

• Ability to work in a stationary position for prolonged periods of time.

• Capability to lift objects or equipment weighing up to 51 pounds with or without reasonable accommodation.

• Physical aptitude to use basic hand tools in a laboratory and/or manufacturing environment.

• Ability to travel and/or attend meetings domestic and internationally outside of normal business hours.


MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS


• Associates degree (preferred) in a technical discipline, or the equivalent in appropriate education and experience as determined by management utilizing internal SMC career development criteria.

• Novice understanding of the product development process.

• Novice understanding to apply project management principles, methodologies, and documentation.

• Novice understanding of CAD software as applied to product development process.

• Novice understanding of CAM software (Mastercam preferred).

• Fluent understanding of Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) as applied to the fabrication and inspection process.

• Competent understanding of common assembly processes.

• Fluent ability to comprehend and interpret engineering specifications.

• Fluent in programming CNC mills and lathes (Mazatrol preferred)

• Fluent to create and edit G-code programs.

• Fluent in setting up, operating, and executing all functions of manual fabrication equipment.

• Competent in mathematical and geometric calculations.

• Competent at efficient use of time to effectively plan and execute multiple duties.

• Fluent in the use of proper inspection equipment to verify part to print. (Calipers, micrometers, surface plate, height gage, etc.)

• Competent ability to communicate utilizing corporate office software.

• Competent ability to take verbal and/or written direction on tasks, training, or departmental / company policies.

• Competent ability to communicate, in English, with internal and external customers tactfully and professionally.

• 0+ years (preferred) relevant work experience.

Company Description

SMC Corporation of America is a part of a global organization that supports our customers in every industrialized country and is the U.S. subsidiary of SMC Corporation based in Japan. Since its establishment, SMC has been a leader in pneumatic technology, providing the various industries with technology and products to support automation based on the guiding principle of “contributing to automation labor savings in industry.” Over the past 50+ years, SMC's products have become established as a recognized international brand through sales, technical, supply and after sale services in world markets. Sales have grown to achieve a 30% global market share.

Subsidiaries and joint ventures have been setup in a total of 53 countries. Production facilities are located in 30 countries. In addition, a sales network extends throughout 83 countries, with local services in 500 locations. SMC offers technology accumulated through the years, engineers that bring it to life in new products, production capacity which can deliver a variety of products in a short time, and an extensive sales network in the U.S. and throughout the world.

With its goal of ever more advanced automation, and using its many achievements as a base, SMC is developing high-quality, highly reliable products to contribute to automation in industry, as well as in familiar areas of everyday life.


What SMC Corporation Of America employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom