ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Prototype Shop Technician Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Burton

The Breakdown: Burton's Prototype Shop Technicians are key team members of our Advanced Concept and Development Center Prototype Facility. In this role, you will be responsible for over-all ...

DES

Shop Technician

Ladson, SC · On-site

The Shop Technician is responsible for the execution of prototype shop work. This role will report to the Engineering Project Manager and support project teams with machining, fabrication and welding ...

Neros Technologies

Prototype Shop Manager

Torrance, CA · On-site

$120K - $180K/yr

Hire, train, and mentor technicians as the shop grows; define roles, training plans, and performance expectations You should have the following * 8+ years in a prototype, R&D, or high-mix fabrication ...

Neros Technologies

Prototype Shop Manager

Torrance, CA · On-site

$120K - $180K/yr

Hire, train, and mentor technicians as the shop grows; define roles, training plans, and performance expectations You should have the following * 8+ years in a prototype, R&D, or high-mix fabrication ...

M Force Recruiting Partners

Be Seen First

Prototype Fabrication Technician

Exeter, RI · On-site

$31 - $38/hr

Prototype Fabrication Technician (Machine Operator) Location: Exeter, RI (Onsite) Job Type: Direct ... Perform machining operations using drill presses, mini mills, and other machine shop equipment

DES

Entry Shop Technician

Ladson, SC · On-site

$15 - $20/hr

... development, prototype fabrications, small-batch / low-rate product manufacturing, technical ... As a Shop Technician with DES, you will be given the opportunity to develop professional skills ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsManufacturing JobsWoodworking JobsPrototype Shop Technician Jobs

Prototype Shop Technician information

See salary details

$15

$26

$50

How much do prototype shop technician jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for prototype shop technician in the United States is $26.11, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.19 and $27.64 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a prototype shop technician?

Prototype Shop Technicians are skilled professionals who build, modify, and assemble prototypes of products, parts, or systems, often using a variety of tools and materials. They work closely with engineers and designers to turn concepts and technical drawings into physical models for testing and evaluation. Their work is essential in the product development process, helping to identify design improvements before full-scale production. Prototype Shop Technicians typically have experience in machining, fabrication, electronics, or automotive systems, and are adept at troubleshooting and problem-solving.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a prototype shop technician?

To thrive as a Prototype Shop Technician, you need hands-on experience in mechanical assembly, fabrication, and interpreting engineering drawings, often supported by a technical diploma or equivalent experience. Familiarity with CNC machines, 3D printers, hand tools, and CAD software is typically required, with certifications in machining or welding considered a plus. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help technicians collaborate with engineers and adapt to rapidly changing project requirements. These skills and qualities are essential for building accurate prototypes, ensuring safety, and meeting tight deadlines in a dynamic environment.

What are common challenges prototype shop technicians face when working on early-stage product development?

Prototype Shop Technicians often encounter challenges such as interpreting incomplete or evolving designs, working with limited documentation, and adapting to last-minute changes in project requirements. They need to be resourceful and comfortable with ambiguity, as prototypes can require creative problem-solving and quick adjustments. Effective communication with engineers and designers is essential to clarify expectations and ensure prototypes meet functional and quality standards.

What is the difference between Prototype Shop Technician vs Mechanical Technician?

AspectPrototype Shop TechnicianMechanical Technician
CredentialsTypically requires a technical diploma or associate degree in manufacturing, machining, or related fieldsUsually holds a diploma or associate degree in mechanical technology or engineering technology
Work EnvironmentWorks primarily in prototype shops, focusing on rapid fabrication and testing of new designsWorks in manufacturing or maintenance settings, performing repairs and routine mechanical tasks
Industry UsageCommonly employed in aerospace, automotive, and product development industriesFound across manufacturing, maintenance, and industrial sectors
Job FocusSpecializes in building, testing, and troubleshooting prototypesFocuses on maintaining and repairing mechanical systems

The Prototype Shop Technician and Mechanical Technician roles share technical skills and work environments but differ mainly in their focus. Prototype Shop Technicians concentrate on developing and testing new prototypes, while Mechanical Technicians handle ongoing maintenance and repairs. Both roles are essential in manufacturing and product development industries.

What cities are hiring for Prototype Shop Technician jobs?

Cities with the most Prototype Shop Technician job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Prototype Shop Technician jobs?

For Prototype Shop Technician jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Prototype Shop Technician job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,312 per year, or $26.1 per hour.

Craigs - Prototype Shop Technician I

Burton, MI

burton
See more jobs at burtonexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago

Job description

The Breakdown:

Burton’s Prototype Shop Technicians are key team members of our Advanced Concept and Development Center Prototype Facility.  In this role, you will be responsible for over-all prototyping duties while concurrently bringing together prototyping, manufacturing, and technology. You will share your knowledge and experience in all aspects of the snowboard manufacturing process. You will have the opportunity to embrace and drive new manufacturing technologies and share your knowledge of alternative manufacturing processes.  

What You Get to Do:

  • Perform the physical labor to create snowboard prototypes, including lay-up, grinding, finishing, and procurement.  Complete a job request from start to finish, building to an engineering design request to meet the desired outcome.
  • Run and maintain equipment, including woodworking and metalworking machines like routers, shapers, sanders, and grinders.
  • Participate in the Burton Protoshop’s on-going desire for efficiency and innovation by bringing new ideas and manufacturing experience.
  • Be responsible for the “design for manufacturing” process. 
  • Utilize craftsmanship and hands to create new processes and prototypes. 
  • Utilize and share your experience in building snowboards and snowboard processing.
  • Utilize and share your experience in materials and construction.
  • Other duties may be assigned.

What You’ll Bring to the Team:

  • A depth of experience, knowledge and skill in a technical/functional area including materials, construction and manufacturing process.
  • Proven hands-on experience in manufacturing, materials, or product construction—ideally within the snowboard or hardgoods space.
  • A keen eye for quality, efficiency and attention to detail.
  • The ability to tackle a problem by using a logical, systematic, sequential approach.
  • The ability to develop, support, or sponsor the introduction of new and improved methods, products, procedures, or technologies that meet a customer need.
  • The ability and desire to work cooperatively with others to improve overall team performance. The ability to demonstrate desire, skill, and success in getting groups to work together.
  • The ability to methodically problem solve and to identify work to be done on a project and/or issues that may impede its completion; the ability to act before the situation requires it.
  • Bonus: the ability to read engineering requirements/CAD and translate into a design is a plus.
  • Bonus: knowledge of CNC machining, snowboard machinery, and programming is a plus.

Work/Physical Environment:

This is a mobile position, which will require walking and standing on the feet for the majority of the day in a manufacturing setting.  This position requires the ability to lift at least 25+lbs frequently.

Apply