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Prototype Tech Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

Shield AI

Lead Prototype Technician (R5476)

Dallas, TX · On-site

$43 - $64/hr

Shield AI is a venture-backed defense-tech company with the mission of protecting service members ... At Shield AI, Prototype Manufacturing is where engineering becomes reality. Our team builds the ...

Apple

GPU Silicon Prototype Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

$35.50 - $39.75/hr

Join Apple's GPU team and contribute to the creation of graphics processing technology that powers ... Description As a Silicon Prototype Engineer in Apple's GPU Design Verification and Validation ...

Apple

GPU Silicon Prototype Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

$35.50 - $39.75/hr

Join Apple's GPU team and contribute to the creation of graphics processing technology that powers ... Description As a Silicon Prototype Engineer in Apple's GPU Design Verification and Validation ...

Apple

GPU Silicon Prototype Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

$35.50 - $39.75/hr

Join Apple's GPU team and contribute to the creation of graphics processing technology that powers ... Description As a Silicon Prototype Engineer in Apple's GPU Design Verification and Validation ...

Apple

GPU Silicon Prototype Engineer

Austin, TX

$35.50 - $39.75/hr

Join Apple's GPU team and contribute to the creation of graphics processing technology that powers ... Description As a Silicon Prototype Engineer in Apple's GPU Design Verification and Validation ...

Neuralink

Prototype & Design Specialist

Austin, TX · On-site

Continuously improve lab capabilities and operations by implementing new technologies and ... Prototyping and Fabrication: * Provide hands-on technical support to engineers and technicians by ...

Neuralink

Prototype & Design Specialist

Austin, TX · On-site

$68K - $114K/yr

Continuously improve lab capabilities and operations by implementing new technologies and ... Prototyping and Fabrication: * Provide hands-on technical support to engineers and technicians by ...

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Prototype Tech information

What does a prototype tech do?

A Prototype Tech, short for Prototype Technician, is responsible for building, testing, and refining prototypes of new products or components. They work closely with engineers and designers to turn concepts into physical models, using various tools, materials, and fabrication techniques. Their work often involves troubleshooting, making modifications, documenting processes, and ensuring that prototypes meet design and safety standards. Prototype Techs play a crucial role in product development by helping identify potential issues before full-scale production.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a prototype tech, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Prototype Tech, you need strong mechanical aptitude, experience with fabrication processes, and a background in engineering technology or a related field. Familiarity with CAD software, CNC machines, 3D printers, and related prototyping tools is typically required, and certifications in manufacturing or machining are advantageous. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective communication help you excel in building and refining prototypes. These competencies ensure accurate, efficient prototype development and successful collaboration with engineering teams.

What are some typical challenges a prototype tech may face when transitioning from design concepts to physical prototypes?

Prototype Techs often encounter challenges when translating digital designs into tangible prototypes, such as interpreting incomplete specifications, sourcing appropriate materials quickly, and troubleshooting unexpected technical issues during fabrication. The role requires adaptability and strong problem-solving skills to iterate and refine prototypes efficiently, often under tight deadlines. Effective communication with engineers and designers is essential to clarify requirements and ensure the final prototype meets functional expectations.

What is the difference between Prototype Tech vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectPrototype Tech
CredentialsTypically requires technical certifications, associate degrees, or relevant technical training
Work EnvironmentHands-on, lab or workshop settings focused on building and testing prototypes
Industry UsageCommonly employed in manufacturing, product development, and R&D teams
Primary FocusCreating, assembling, and testing prototypes based on design specifications

Mechanical Engineers often hold a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, focus on design, analysis, and overseeing manufacturing processes. While Prototype Techs focus on hands-on prototype creation and testing, Mechanical Engineers are involved in the broader design and engineering process. Both roles are essential in product development but differ mainly in scope and responsibilities.

What are popular job titles related to Prototype Tech jobs in Texas?

For Prototype Tech jobs in Texas, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Prototype Tech jobs in Texas look for?

The top searched job categories for Prototype Tech jobs in Texas are:

What cities in Texas are hiring for Prototype Tech jobs?

Cities in Texas with the most Prototype Tech job openings:

Infographic showing various Prototype Tech job openings in Texas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 10% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution.

Lead Prototype Technician (R5476)

Dallas, TX • On-site

Shield AI
Software Development • 11 - 50 employees
Learn more about Shield AIexternal

$43 - $64/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description

Shield AI is a venture-backed defense-tech company with the mission of protecting service members and civilians with intelligent systems. Its products include Hivemind autonomy software, V-BAT and X-BAT aircraft, and Aechelon simulation and synthetic reality technologies. With offices and facilities across the U.S., Europe, the Middle East, and Asia-Pacific, Shield AI's technology actively supports operations worldwide. For more information, visit www.shield.ai. Follow Shield AI on LinkedIn, X, Instagram, and YouTube. 

Job Description:

At Shield AI, Prototype Manufacturing is where engineering becomes reality. Our team builds the first aircraft, develops the manufacturing processes, solves complex technical challenges, and establishes the manufacturing foundation that enables scalable production. Every prototype directly influences the future of our products and the capabilities delivered to our customers.

We are seeking an experienced Lead Prototype Technician (Level 5) to join our Prototype & New Product Launch team. This is not a traditional aerospace technician role. You will build first-of-kind autonomous aircraft, develop manufacturing processes, solve challenging technical problems, influence product design through Design for Manufacturability (DFM), and help define how our products transition from prototype to production.

As a Lead Prototype Technician, you will serve as the technical cornerstone of Prototype Manufacturing by transforming engineering intent into flight-ready hardware while driving continuous improvement across manufacturing processes. You will partner closely with Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Quality, and Production to ensure our prototype builds are successful today and scalable for tomorrow.

What you'll do:
  • Build prototype, developmental, and first article aircraft from engineering concept through flight-ready hardware.
  • Perform precision drilling, reaming, countersinking, riveting, fastening, torqueing, safety wiring, structural assembly, and mechanical integration.
  • Execute advanced composite manufacturing including wet layup, bonding, trimming, machining, vacuum bagging, structural repairs, finishing, and final assembly.
  • Perform complex aircraft modifications and structural repairs.
  • Interpret engineering drawings, CAD models, GD&T, specifications, and manufacturing documentation.
  • Partner with Design Engineering to provide Design for Manufacturability (DFM) feedback.
  • Develop and improve manufacturing work instructions, build sequences, tooling concepts, fixtures, and standardized assembly methods.
  • Support engineering validation, qualification builds, and flight test campaigns.
  • Fabricate custom brackets, tooling, fixtures, and prototype hardware.
  • Mentor Prototype Technicians while establishing best practices and craftsmanship standards.
Key responsibilities:
  • Prototype Manufacturing Excellence
  • Design for Manufacturability (DFM)
  • Manufacturing Process Development
  • Cross Functional Leadership
  • Technical Leadership
What success looks like:
  • Deliver complex prototype hardware with exceptional quality.
  • Solve manufacturing challenges before they become production issues.
  • Influence engineering through practical manufacturing expertise.
  • Develop repeatable manufacturing processes.
  • Mentor technicians and elevate team capability.
Required qualifications:
  • 10+ years of aerospace manufacturing or prototype experience.
  • Extensive aircraft structural assembly experience.
  • Advanced composites experience including wet layup and structural repair.
  • Experience with engineering development builds.
  • Ability to interpret complex engineering drawings and GD&T.
  • Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Security Clearance.
Preferred qualifications:
  • Military aircraft, UAV, eVTOL, or rotorcraft experience.
  • Prototype-to-production transition experience.
  • AS9100 experience.
  • A&P License or equivalent.
  • Military aviation maintenance experience.
  • Leadership or mentoring experience.
Why join Shield AI:

Unlike traditional aerospace manufacturing, our Prototype Manufacturing team works directly alongside Engineering to create the next generation of autonomous aircraft. You'll influence design decisions, define manufacturing processes, mentor other technicians, and build technology that protects those who serve.

Shield AI offers competitive compensation, equity participation, comprehensive medical, dental, and vision benefits, 401(k), generous paid time off, professional development opportunities, and the chance to work on some of the world's most advanced autonomous aircraft systems.

 
$43 - $64 an hour
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Full-time regular employee offer package:
Pay within range listed + Bonus + Benefits + Equity
 
Temporary employee offer package:
Pay within range listed above + temporary benefits package (applicable after 60 days of employment)
 
Salary compensation is influenced by a wide array of factors including but not limited to skill set, level of experience, licenses and certifications, and specific work location. All offers are contingent on a cleared background and possible reference check. Military fellows and part-time employees are not eligible for benefits. Please speak to your talent acquisition representative for more information.
 
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Shield AI is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace and is an affirmative action employer. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, marital status, disability, gender identity or Veteran status. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please let us know. 
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.
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