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Prototype Machinist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

MILWAUKEE TOOL

Prototype Machinist B

Brookfield, WI · On-site

$19.50 - $26.50/hr

As a Prototype Machinist B and member of the Rapid Innovation Center (RIC) at Milwaukee Tool, you will be responsible for creating new to the world prototypes, working with a driven team using ...

Milwaukee Tool

Prototype Machinist B

Brookfield, WI · On-site

$19.50 - $26.50/hr

As a Prototype Machinist B and member of the Rapid Innovation Center (RIC) at Milwaukee Tool, you will be responsible for creating new to the world prototypes, working with a driven team using ...

LiquidPiston

CNC Programmer/Prototype Machinist

Suffield, CT · On-site

$25.75 - $35.25/hr

CNC Programmer/Prototype Machinist - LiquidPiston This role is fully onsite in Bloomfield, CT, five days per week, and the company will be relocating to Suffield, CT later in 2026.​​​​​ ...

Infinia Search Inc

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CNC Prototype Machinist

Farmington, CT · On-site

$38 - $48/day

Act as the primary subject matter expert in machining for the prototyping phase, effectively communicating with Process Engineering, Project Managers, Quality Control (QC), and R&D teams to ensure ...

Festo SE & Co. KG

CNC Prototype Machinist

Maineville, OH

$19.25 - $26.25/hr

Machines both rush production and prototype special applications components to critical blueprint tolerances, sketches or verbal instructions. * Confers with Manufacturing Engineer for approval on ...

Joby Aviation

CNC Prototype Machinist

Santa Cruz, CA · On-site

$46 - $67/hr

Overview Joby Aviation is seeking an experienced CNC Prototype Machinist to join our subtractive prototyping team. This individual's role is to setup, operate, program, make fixtures, jigs, test ...

Milwaukee Tool

Prototype Machinist B

Brookfield, WI

$19.50 - $26.50/hr

As a Prototype Machinist B and member of the Rapid Innovation Center (RIC) at Milwaukee Tool, you will be responsible for creating new to the world prototypes, working with a driven team using ...

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Prototype Machinist information

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$19

$29

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How much do prototype machinist jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for prototype machinist in the United States is $29.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.00 and $32.93 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 creates and modifies custom parts and components for new product development using precision machining tools such as CNC machines and lathes. They interpret engineering drawings, select appropriate materials, and ensure prototypes meet design specifications through careful measurement and quality control. This role often requires technical skills, attention to detail, and knowledge of manufacturing processes.

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.

Is AI taking over machinist jobs?

AI and automation are increasingly used to assist machinists by improving precision and efficiency, but they do not fully replace the need for skilled prototype machinists. Machinists still require technical expertise, manual skills, and problem-solving abilities that current AI cannot replicate entirely. Human oversight remains essential in complex or custom manufacturing tasks.

Can a CNC machinist make 100k a year?

A CNC machinist can potentially earn $100,000 annually with advanced skills, experience, and working in high-demand industries or locations. Achieving this salary often requires proficiency with complex machinery, certifications, and sometimes overtime or supervisory roles.

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.

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Prototype Machinist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Prototype Machinist job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $62,275 per year, or $29.9 per hour.

Development and Prototype Machinist

Pacific Fusion

San Leandro, CA • On-site

Other

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

Why This Role Matters

As a Development and Prototype Machinist, you will play a crucial role in supporting our engineering and delivery teams - producing, modifying, reworking, and troubleshooting parts integral to our fusion energy systems. Your technical skills, attention to detail, and proactive approaches are fundamental to our success. This opportunity is for day shift.

What You'll Do
  • Program, setup and operate CNC and manual machines, including but not limited to lathes and multi-axis mills, to produce precision parts and tools from metals, plastics,

 and potentially composites

  • Read and interpret blueprints, GD&T, and work instructions to meet tolerance requirements
  • Work with engineering teams to document and recommend design for manufacturability improvements
  • Facilitate the transition from development to production by collaborating closely with engineering
  • Assist in the set-up of new production work areas, including layouts,

 tooling, and equipment configuration

  • Identify and execute continuous improvement projects to enhance area safety and efficiency
  • Perform second-party verification of manufactured hardware and assist in the transition from development to production
What You Bring
  • Minimum 10 years of experience as a machinist in a hands-on setting 
  • Ability to work independently through the full programming, fixturing, machining and inspecting life cycle of parts
  • Proficiency in reading engineering drawings with and good understanding of GD&T
  • Experience manufacturing production and development hardware as well as small tooling
  • Minimum 2 years of Programming with CAM software and conversational programming on machines
  • Experience performing basic preventive and reactive maintenance of machine tools
  • Strong problem-solving skills, with the ability to troubleshoot complex mechanical and/or electromechanical systems
  • Demonstrated ability to follow detailed instructions and protocols
  • Excellent communication skills to collaborate with a team of scientists, engineers, and technicians 
  • Experience driving a forklift and using hand power tools
Bonus Points For
  • Experience using Creo, Fusion 360 or Mastercam CAD/CAM software 
  • Experience in hands-on tasks such as welding, construction, auto mechanics, or other similar tasks

Apply