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Prototype Specialist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Prototype Specialist, Robotics Oakland, CA Full-time - In Person Energy is the binding constraint on human progress. Solar and storage are the lowest cost sources of new generation, but the ...

Engineering Technician (Prototype Specialist) Location: Etters, PA Summary: The Engineering Technician (Prototype Specialist) will be responsible for supporting HSIO connector and OverPass product ...

We are seeking a hands-on, results-oriented Prototyping Specialist to support our engineering team ... Manufacture prototype components to support new product development and engineering validation ...

Prototyping Specialist

Waltham, MA · On-site

$72K - $78K/yr

We are seeking a hands-on, results-oriented Prototyping Specialist to support our engineering team ... Manufacture prototype components to support new product development and engineering validation ...

We are seeking a hands-on, results-oriented Prototyping Specialist to support our engineering team ... Manufacture prototype components to support new product development and engineering validation ...

The Specialist will be part of the OXMAN fabrication team and will work out of our world-class Manhattan prototyping shop. If you prefer to spend most of your time in the workshop and want to build ...

As our Prototype & Design Specialist, you will be instrumental in creating and maintaining an environment that enables our engineering and manufacturing teams to innovate and deliver groundbreaking ...

Prototype & Design Specialist

Austin, TX · On-site

$68K - $114K/yr

As our Prototype & Design Specialist, you will be instrumental in creating and maintaining an environment that enables our engineering and manufacturing teams to innovate and deliver groundbreaking ...

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Prototype Specialist information

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How much do prototype specialist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for prototype specialist in the United States is $27.93, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.04 and $31.73 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a prototype specialist?

A prototype specialist is a professional responsible for designing, developing, and testing prototypes of products or systems to evaluate concepts and functionality. They often use tools like CAD software and work closely with engineers and designers to refine ideas before production. Strong technical skills and understanding of manufacturing processes are essential for this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a prototype specialist?

To thrive as a Prototype Specialist, you need expertise in product design, rapid prototyping techniques, and materials knowledge, often supported by a degree in engineering, industrial design, or a related field. Familiarity with CAD software, 3D printing technologies, CNC machinery, and fabrication tools is highly valuable, and certifications in prototyping or design software can be beneficial. Creativity, problem-solving, strong attention to detail, and effective collaboration are standout soft skills in this position. These skills are vital for efficiently transforming concepts into tangible prototypes that meet project specifications and drive innovation in product development.

What are some common challenges prototype specialists face in their daily work?

Prototype Specialists often encounter challenges such as tight project deadlines, quickly adapting to design changes, and troubleshooting unforeseen technical issues during the prototyping process. They must efficiently communicate with designers, engineers, and project managers to ensure prototypes accurately reflect the intended design and function. Staying current with evolving prototyping technologies and materials can also be demanding but is key to producing high-quality results. By demonstrating flexibility and technical resourcefulness, Prototype Specialists play a crucial role in successfully moving concepts toward final products.

What does a prototype specialist do?

A Prototype Specialist is responsible for designing, building, and testing prototypes of new products or components. They work closely with engineers, designers, and manufacturers to refine concepts and ensure functionality. Their role involves using various materials, tools, and technologies, such as 3D printing and CNC machining, to create accurate models. They also analyze test results and suggest improvements to enhance performance and manufacturability.

What cities are hiring for Prototype Specialist jobs? Cities with the most Prototype Specialist job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Prototype Specialist jobs? The most popular types of Prototype Specialist jobs are:
What job categories do people searching Prototype Specialist jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Prototype Specialist jobs are:
Infographic showing various Prototype Specialist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 79% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 19% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,098 per year, or $27.9 per hour.

Prototype Specialist, Robotics

Planted Solar

Oakland, CA

$110K - $125K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

Prototype Specialist, Robotics

Oakland, CA
Full-time - In Person

Energy is the binding constraint on human progress. Solar and storage are the lowest cost sources of new generation, but the conventional project delivery model has not changed in 30 years and deployment cannot keep pace with demand.

Planted is the execution layer between a parcel of land and a powered facility. We digitize sites, optimize designs, and deploy robots to build the lowest cost and fastest new power systems at the speed of manufacturing.

We're expanding our team of ambitious, curious, and hands-on engineers and operators who want to accelerate that transition. Come take ownership of large parts of our product, company, and business development as we help power the world with 100% clean and abundant energy.

About The Role

The Robotics Specialist is a senior hands-on builder on the Integration Engineering team, responsible for independent electrical and mechanical assembly of Planted's robotic vehicle platforms. You operate with a high degree of autonomy, taking builds from parts and schematics to a production machine. Your documentation, procurement, and attention to detail will be pivotal in scaling Planted's robot platforms to meet the global energy demand.
As the role matures, you will continue to develop each version of Planted's robots that are tackling a separate problem within utility scale solar deployment.

The salary range for this full-time position is $110,000-125,000 plus stock options and benefits. Pay within the range is based on candidate experience, job-specific skills, education, and work location. The target experience for the position is 3-7+ years

RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Assemble and troubleshoot Planted's fleet of production and R&D Robots
  • Component sourcing, purchasing, and inventory management
  • Assembly documentation and Engineering Change Order implementation
  • Technical design improvements
  • Up to 10% travel to implement in field ECOs and technical maintenance
  • Operate robots at local Bay Area R&D site

QUALIFICATIONS

  • 3+ years experience
  • Associates degree or trade school preferred
  • Electrical-Mechanical assembly (Automotive, Aerospace, Robotics)
  • Ability to communicate complex ideas effectively and succinctly to technical engineering and manufacturing
  • Experience fabricating with hand tools, drill press, mill, lathe, welding etc
  • Forklift or heavy equipment certification a plus - training available
  • Hands-on aptitude, strong ownership mentality, and resourcefulness
  • Located in the SF Bay Area or able to relocate, and able to be in-person 5 days a week with flexible starting times for commute optimization
  • A depth of experience in one or more of the following areas: robotics development, energy systems, infrastructure, and hands-on field operations

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

  • Electrical panel building (Industrial PLC, Industrial Mobile Platforms, Aerospace)
  • Strong computer skills, including CAD (SolidWorks, NX, OnShape), BOM generation, documentation, 3D Printing and task management software (Jira, Asana)
  • A track record of organization, attention to detail, and self management skills to enable autonomy and success
  • Ability to navigate ambiguity, reduce reasonable risks, and make good decisions with imperfect knowledge

*A note on qualifications: Many people only apply for jobs if they believe they can perform every task in the job description. We are most interested in finding the best candidate for the job and will consider equivalent combinations of knowledge, skills, education, and experience to meet minimum qualifications. If you are interested in applying, we encourage you to think broadly about your background and skill set for the role.

PHYSICAL AND SENSORY REQUIREMENTS

  • 80% active work in an industrial warehouse performing mechanical and electrical builds
  • The position will require intermittent travel to project sites to maintain and fix Planted's fleet of robots
What We Offer
  • 11 paid company holidays and flexible Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Company-paid in-office lunches
  • Stock options
  • Medical, vision, dental, and other benefits
  • Pre-tax commuter benefits
  • 401(k)
  • A chance to have an empowered, meaningful, and early role in climate
This will be a great fit if:
  • You want to solve challenging problems
  • You are biased towards action and focus on the vital work that drives the most impact
  • You prioritize the physical and psychological safety of yourself and those around you
  • You are humble, embrace change, and deliver and receive candid feedback
  • You are optimistic about the future and can make tough decisions to help get there
  • You have high expectations and coach, develop, and make time to help others

Planted is an equal opportunity employer committed to growing inclusively, regardless of race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, medical condition, age, or veteran status. However you identify, or whatever background you bring with you, please apply. We look forward to hearing from you.