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Prototype Specialist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

We take pride in building high-quality models, prototypes, and manufacturing solutions that support ... Apple is seeking a motivated and experienced metal additive 3D printing specialist to join this ...

Design Expert

Montgomeryville, PA · On-site

$133K/yr

The Card Prototyping Specialist supports the CSR team when customers request advice about Thales Card products and options available. This role is also in charge of handling the retains and sample ...

Eng Plan Spec II

Maple Grove, MN · On-site

$67K - $114K/yr

This role supports prototype manufacturing planning and processes by scheduling and planning work ... The SIF Planning Specialist will assume responsibility for the assignment of tasks and the accurate ...

Design Expert

Montgomeryville, PA · On-site

$133K/yr

The Card Prototyping Specialist supports the CSR team when customers request advice about Thales Card products and options available. This role is also in charge of handling the retains and sample ...

The Engineering Specialist leads the creation of new wash systems and technologies that enhance ... Develop prototypes and conduct functionality testing to ensure products can be effectively ...

Showing results 21-40

Prototype Specialist information

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$11

$27

$40

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.

Metal Additive Prototyping Specialist

Apple

Sunnyvale, CA

$51.19 - $89.84/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement

Posted 23 days ago


Apple rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 677 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7th of 30 rated technology retailers


Job description

Do you possess a keen eye for detail, a passion for excellence, and a strong desire to contribute to extraordinary outcomes? If so, you will thrive as a member of the diverse team that exemplifies these values. Apple’s ADL (Advanced Development Lab) combines technical know-how and creativity to deliver exceptional products and customer experiences. We take pride in building high-quality models, prototypes, and manufacturing solutions that support the development of future Apple products. We invite you to bring your curiosity, craftsmanship, and dedication to our team!
Apple is seeking a motivated and experienced metal additive 3D printing specialist to join this team, where extensive innovation and collaboration among team members drive towards exceptional outcomes. In this role, you will provide guidance on design for metal additive manufacturing (DfAM), work with and modify CAD prototypes, operate various metal 3D printers, and perform post-processing.
Description
This role focuses on developing, optimizing, and scaling metal additive manufacturing processes using advanced metal 3D printing technologies such as Laser Powder Bed Fusion (LPBF). The ideal candidate will collaborate with design engineers and manufacturing teams to create prototypes that meet functional and aesthetic requirements. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to the development of advanced manufacturing processes, enabling the creation of next-generation products.","responsibilities":"Review incoming orders for DfAM principles
Provide metal additive expertise to engineers during prototyping stages of product design
Work with CAD software to modify designs as needed for metal additive processes
Balance needs of various customers to deliver prototypes in a timely manner
Develop optimized printing processes, workflows, and layouts
Set-up and operate Metal Additive 3D Printers
Load and unload raw materials and finished parts
Closely monitor machine operations and make adjustments as necessary to maintain dimensional spec and quality
Perform finishing operations, e.g. support removal, hand polishing, sand blasting,etc.
Follow all safety protocols
Maintain a clean and organized work area
Inspect finished parts for quality and accuracy
Communicate with team members to ensure smooth operation
Preferred Qualifications
2+ years of experience with metal additive 3D printing, particularly LPBF
1+ years of experience with MJF, SLS, or SLA 3D printing
Ability to optimize and prepare 3D models in Siemens NX CAD to support LPBF processes
Proficiency with nTopology or Siemens NX CAD for topology optimization
Experience with simulation software for metal additive processes
Ability to analyze and resolve challenges related to part orientation, support structures, thermal distortions, and post-processing
Experience in a high-mix, low-volume manufacturing environment
Experience with Good Manufacturing Practices
Minimum Qualifications
Strong collaboration skills in a team environment
Able to work independently on assignments
Attention to detail with a focus on producing high-quality results
Understanding of additive manufacturing principles, including DfAM and post-processing techniques
Experience with metal additive 3D printing
Proficiency in at least one CAD modeling software
Full-time, on-site presence required to work with manufacturing equipment, prototypes, and internal customers
Pay & Benefits
At Apple, base pay is one part of our total compensation package and is determined within a range. This provides the opportunity to progress as you grow and develop within a role. The base pay range for this role is between $51.19 and $89.84/hr, and your base pay will depend on your skills, qualifications, experience, and location.
Apple employees also have the opportunity to become an Apple shareholder through participation in Apple's discretionary employee stock programs. Apple employees are eligible for discretionary restricted stock unit awards, and can purchase Apple stock at a discount if voluntarily participating in Apple's Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You'll also receive benefits including: Comprehensive medical and dental coverage, retirement benefits, a range of discounted products and free services, and for formal education related to advancing your career at Apple, reimbursement for certain educational expenses - including tuition. Additionally, this role might be eligible for discretionary bonuses or commission payments as well as relocation. Learn more about Apple Benefits
Note: Apple benefit, compensation and employee stock programs are subject to eligibility requirements and other terms of the applicable plan or program.

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About Apple

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Imagine what you could do here! At Apple, new ideas have a way of becoming extraordinary products, services, and customer experiences very quickly. Bring passion and dedication to your job and there's no telling what you could accomplish. Dynamic, intelligent people and inspiring, innovative technologies are the norm here. The people who work here have reinvented entire industries with all Apple Hardware products. The same real passion for innovation that goes into our products also applies to our practices strengthening our dedication to leave the world better than we found it.

Industry

Computer and electronic product manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Cupertino, CA, US

Year founded

1976