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Prototype Shop Technician Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Excelta Corporation

Shop Technician

Buellton, CA · On-site

Job Type Full-time Description JOB SUMMARY/PURPOSE The custom Shop Technician is responsible for ... Design and modify jigs and fixtures to support machining, assembly, and prototype work. * Inspect ...

Excelta Corporation

Shop Technician

Buellton, CA

$27 - $32/hr

Description JOB SUMMARY/PURPOSE The custom Shop Technician is responsible for making the products ... Design and modify jigs and fixtures to support machining, assembly, and prototype work. * Inspect ...

Amazon

Machine Shop Manager

North Reading, MA

This is a prototype shop: short-run, high-mix. Most jobs are unique, every setup matters, and the ... additive manufacturing technicians, set the schedule, and work directly with design and ...

Excelta Corporation

Shop Technician

Buellton, CA · On-site

$27 - $32/hr

JOB SUMMARY/PURPOSE The custom Shop Technician is responsible for making the products that are ... Design and modify jigs and fixtures to support machining, assembly, and prototype work. * Inspect ...

Amazon

Machine Shop Manager

North Reading, MA

This is a prototype shop: short-run, high-mix. Most jobs are unique, every setup matters, and the ... additive manufacturing technicians, set the schedule, and work directly with design and ...

Wisconsin

Fabrication Shop Technician

Platteville, WI · On-site

$23/hr

The Fabrication Shop Technician will work with students, staff, faculty and community members to support class project work, student organization projects, prototypes, and general fabrication and ...

Caterpillar

Shop Technician I

El Reno, OK · On-site

$19.85 - $26.55/hr

... prototyping of spare parts, robust asset management, operation and maintenance and field ... The Shop Technician II primarily works in the shop making repairs to equipment as required. The ...

Amazon

Machine Shop Manager

Reading, MA · On-site

This is a prototype shop: short-run, high-mix. Most jobs are unique, every setup matters, and the ... additive manufacturing technicians, set the schedule, and work directly with design and ...

Protingent

Prototype Build Technician

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$45 - $60/hr

Prototype Build Technician Position Description : Protingent Staffing has an exciting direct hire ... You'll work with a thoughtful, dynamic team of engineers to develop test systems, maintain shop ...

Sbdinc

CNC Operator & Shop Technician

Valley City, OH · On-site

$19.25 - $26.50/hr

As a CNC Operator & Shop Technician, you'll be part of our Prototype Manufacturing team working as an on-site employee. You'll get to: * Program, set up, and operate CNC machines (including 4 & 5 ...

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Prototype Shop Technician information

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$15

$26

$50

How much do prototype shop technician jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 15, 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.

Shop Technician

Buellton, CA • On-site

Excelta Corporation
Medical Equipment and Supplies Manufacturing • 11 - 50 employees
Learn more about Excelta Corporationexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
JOB SUMMARY/PURPOSE
The custom Shop Technician is responsible for making the products that are custom-ordered and therefore are specialized products that require additional expertise, attention to detail and high quality each and every time.
DIRECT REPORTS & KEY COLLABORATORS
Direct Reports, if any:
  • None

Key Collaborators:
  • Shop Manager
  • Purchasing staff
  • Customer Service & Sales staff

KEY TASKS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Read and interpret blueprints, drawings, and product specifications to manufacture parts to required tolerances.
  • Set up and operate CNC and manual machine shop equipment.
  • Operate CNC machines, including loading fixtures, running programs, adjusting offsets, changing tooling, and making program edits as needed.
  • Perform extensive manual operations including grinding, filing, fitting, polishing, deburring, drilling, tapping, forming, and surface finishing.
  • Operate equipment including belt and wheel grinders, surface grinders, vertical mills, drilling/tapping equipment, and other shop machinery.
  • Assemble, fit, and modify fabricated components using hand and power tools.
  • Design and modify jigs and fixtures to support machining, assembly, and prototype work.
  • Inspect and test parts to ensure dimensional and functional requirements are met.
  • Troubleshoot nonconforming parts and perform adjustments or rework as necessary.
  • Develop and improve machining, finishing, assembly, and testing methods for new or non-routine assignments.
  • Maintain shop equipment, complete required maintenance logs, and report unsafe or failing equipment.
  • Maintain accurate production and material transfer documentation.
  • Assist with training and cross-training other shop personnel.
  • Work independently on routine assignments with limited supervision.
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements
EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE, KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES
  • High School diploma required; Associate's degree (A. A.) or equivalent in Business, Economics, Supply Chain, or related field strongly preferred
  • One to two years manufacturing / machine operation / assembly / hand tools / CNC machines experience strongly preferred
  • Basic math and critical thinking skills
  • Detail-oriented mindset
  • Data entry and computer skills
  • Excellent communication skills
  • Understanding of safety protocols and requirements
  • Experience in a prototype, toolroom, job shop, or low-volume/high-mix manufacturing environment preferred.
  • Strong mechanical aptitude and precision handworking skills.
  • CNC and manual machining experience preferred.
  • Fusion 360 CAD/CAM experience is a plus.
  • Ability to work effectively in a shop environment where daily assignments and priorities may change.

TRAITS, ATTRIBUTES & COMPETENCIES
  1. Attention to Detail -Thoroughness in accomplishing a task through concern for all the areas involved, no matter how small. Monitors and checks work or information and plans and organizes time and resources efficiently.
  2. Collaboration - Works with employees from other functions or departments and gains their cooperation and support. Excellent team player who role models collaborative work behaviors.
  3. Communication - Effectively transfers thoughts and expresses ideas verbally in individual or group situations. Shares information openly and frequently and keeps others well informed. Keeps Supervisor well informed of work progress in meeting Objectives. Uses effective listening skills to gain understanding from others. Highly developed written skills.
  4. Drive for results - Demonstrates concern for achieving or surpassing results against an internal or external standard of excellence. Shows a passion for improving the delivery of results with a commitment to continuous improvement.
  5. Initiative - Does more than what is required or expected in the job; does things that no one has requested that will improve or enhance the operation, avoid problems, or develop opportunities. Plans ahead for upcoming problems and takes appropriate action. Does what it takes to get something done despite resistance from others.
  6. Problem Solving - Builds a logical approach to address problems or opportunities or manage the situation at hand by drawing on one's knowledge and experience base, and calling on other references and resources as necessary.
  7. Reliability - Demonstrates a high level of dependability in all aspects of the job.

Physical Demands Work Environment Tools
Work Location: 100% onsite
Work Schedule: 40 hours / week
Physical Conditions of Employment:
Sitting, standing and/or walking 80-90% time
  1. Kneel, crouch, reach, climb, walk, constant use of hands
  2. Reach with hands and arms (the employee frequently is required to stand and use hands to finger, handle, or feel)
  3. Ability to work on feet for long hours
  4. Normal or better vision and observance, attention to detail is required.
  5. Speak, read, write in English
  6. Constant use of computer, keyboard and mouse
  7. Lift up to 40 pounds occasionally

Tools Utilized:
  • Personal computer and software systems such as ERP SysPro, Microsoft Office suite, etc.
  • Standard office equipment: telephone, copier/scanner, and others as required.

Environmental Conditions of employment:
The work environment is a manufacturing setting where there is exposure to noise, dust, heat, cold, chemicals and manufacturing equipment.

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