1

Prototype Tech Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Perform various Prototype manufacturing activities (per capabilities) as defined by the Prototype Tech I/II s when primary Faro activities are not required.

Prototype Machinist

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$52 - $58/hr

... of AM technology. As a part of the Nikon Advanced Manufacturing Ecosystem, we leverage our ... Prototype Machinist The Prototype Machinist is responsible for programming and operating machinery ...

Prototype Machinist

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$52 - $58/hr

... of AM technology. As a part of the Nikon Advanced Manufacturing Ecosystem, we leverage our ... Prototype Machinist The Prototype Machinist is responsible for programming and operating machinery ...

Job Position: Prototype Machinist Location: Champaign, IL (Onsite, Full-time) At our client ... You'll gain valuable experience in a wide range of machining technologies and techniques that will ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Prototype Tech information

See salary details

$15

$26

$50

How much do prototype tech jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for prototype tech 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 does a prototype technician do?

A prototype technician builds, tests, and modifies prototypes of products or components to evaluate design concepts and functionality. They use tools such as CAD software, hand tools, and measurement instruments, often working closely with engineers to ensure prototypes meet specifications and quality standards.

What jobs pay $2000 a day?

High-paying roles for a Prototype Tech or similar specialized positions can reach $2000 a day, especially for freelance consultants, senior engineers, or contractors with advanced skills in prototyping, CAD software, and rapid development. These roles often require extensive experience, a strong portfolio, and sometimes certifications, and they may involve project-based or contract work in industries like aerospace, automotive, or electronics.

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 jobs pay $10,000 a month without a degree?

For a Prototype Tech or similar roles, high-paying positions often require specialized skills, experience, or certifications rather than a formal degree. Jobs such as freelance software development, 3D modeling, or technical consulting can reach or exceed $10,000 per month with strong expertise and a solid portfolio, especially in high-demand niches or contract work. Success in these roles depends on skill level, reputation, and the ability to secure clients or projects independently.

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 jobs pay $500,000 a year in the US?

In the US, high-paying roles such as senior executives, specialized surgeons, and successful entrepreneurs can earn $500,000 or more annually. Certain tech roles like senior software engineers, data scientists, or product managers at top companies may also reach this level with bonuses and stock options. These positions typically require advanced skills, extensive experience, and often leadership responsibilities.

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.
More about Prototype Tech jobs
What cities are hiring for Prototype Tech jobs? Cities with the most Prototype Tech job openings:
What states have the most Prototype Tech jobs? States with the most job openings for Prototype Tech jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Prototype Tech jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Prototype Tech jobs are:
Infographic showing various Prototype Tech job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, and 99% Full Time. Highlights an 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,312 per year, or $26.1 per hour.
Prototype Machinist (Mech Tech H 2) - 27566

Prototype Machinist (Mech Tech H 2) - 27566

HII

Alexandria, VA • On-site

$24.27 - $38.13/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago


Huntington Ingalls Industries rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 141 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

187th of 520 rated manufacturers


Job description

Requisition Number: 27566
Required Travel: 0 - 10%
Employment Type: Full Time/Hourly/Non-Exempt
Anticipated Salary Range: $24.27 - $38.13
Security Clearance: None
Level of Experience: Mid
This opportunity resides with Warfare Systems (WS), a business group within HII's Mission Technologies division. Warfare Systems comprises cyber and mission IT; electronic warfare; and C5ISR systems.
HII works within our nation's intelligence and cyber operations communities to defend our interests in cyberspace and anticipate emerging threats. Our capabilities in cybersecurity, network architecture, reverse engineering, software and hardware development uniquely enable us to support sensitive missions for the U.S. military and federal agency partners.
Meet HII's Mission Technologies Division
Our team of more than 7,000 professionals worldwide delivers all-domain expertise and advanced technologies in service of mission partners across the globe. Mission Technologies is leading the next evolution of national defense - the data evolution - by accelerating a breadth of national security solutions for government and commercial customers. Our capabilities range from C5ISR, AI and Big Data, cyber operations and synthetic training environments to fleet sustainment, environmental remediation and the largest family of unmanned underwater vehicles in every class. Find the role that's right for you. Apply today. We look forward to meeting you.
To learn more about Mission Technologies, click here for a short video: https://vimeo.com/732533072
Job Description
Mission Technologies, a dividision of HII, is hiring a Prototype Machinist at our Alexandria, VA location. In this hands-on, fast-paced role, you won't just fabricate parts-you'll help shape the future of advanced technology.
You'll work with an impressive mix of CNC and traditional machine tools, from knee mills and lathes to CNC routers, waterjets, and lasers. Your creations will range from precision‑milled brackets to custom sheet‑metal enclosures, crafted from aluminum, steel, stainless, and modern plastics.
Every day brings a new challenge. You'll collaborate directly with engineers, turning concept sketches, verbal ideas, and engineering drawings into real-world components. Your insights will help refine designs for manufacturability, influence prototype development, and solve unconventional problems involving complex geometries and tight packaging.
You'll also play a key role in keeping the machine shop safe, clean, and operating at peak performance-plus lend support with facilities maintenance and coordination with outside contractors.
Career Growth at HII Mission Technologies
This role is built for individuals who want to grow. As you develop expertise with advanced fabrication technologies and collaborate daily with engineering teams, you'll gain exposure to design-for-manufacture principles, rapid prototyping workflows, and cutting‑edge production methods. High performers have opportunities to expand into lead machinist roles, cross-train in new machining technologies, or transition into engineering support and manufacturing development positions. You'll be part of a team that invests in your learning, encourages exploration, and helps you build a long-term technical career.
Essential Job Responsibilities
You will be responsible for machining components from scratch per print, on-time and within budget. Be required to inspect your own parts to confirm they meet specifications. You will be required to plan, set-up and run manual CNC machines. You will work both independently and as part of our machining team.
Minimum Qualifications
  • 2 years of related experience with High School diploma/GED and/or certification in assigned area preferred
  • Experience programming and operating CNC tools
  • Must be experienced using conventional lathes and milling machines
  • Must be proficient in the use and reading of various measurement devices including but not limited to rulers and scales, micrometers, calipers, gauges, etc.
  • Experience reading and interpreting engineering drawings

Preferred Requirements
  • Associate's degree or other 2 year technical degree in related discipline
  • Experience programming and operating a CNC mill, lathe or router
  • Demonstrated experience inspecting parts to ensure quality with tools such as micrometers and calipers
  • Experience with Mastercam and/or similar CAM software
  • Self-motivated individual with ability to work under direction or alone with good attention to detail
  • Knowledge of safety and quality control steps and procedures

Physical Requirements
Must be able to lift, carry and transport heavy equipment and boxes. The exact weight requirements will be determined by the specific job, but no less than 30 lbs. Able to work on and climb ladders, work in extreme temperature environments, aboard ships, in shipyards, under industrial conditions and in confined spaces. Able to perform other duties as required which may involve high heat, humidity, noise and dirty conditions, working aloft or over the sides of vessels. May ride ships at sea for extended periods. May require wearing a respirator. Travel may be required within and outside of the continental United States.
HII is more than a job - it's an opportunity to build a new future. We offer competitive benefits such as best-in-class medical, dental and vision plan choices; wellness resources; employee assistance programs; Savings Plan Options (401(k)); financial planning tools, life insurance; employee discounts; paid holidays and paid time off; tuition reimbursement; as well as early childhood and post-secondary education scholarships. Bonus/other non-recurrent compensation is occasionally offered for qualified positions, and if applicable to this role will be addressed by the recruiter at the screening phase of application.
Why HII
We build the world's most powerful, survivable naval ships and defense technology solutions that safeguard our seas, sky, land, space and cyber. Our workforce includes skilled tradespeople; artificial intelligence, machine learning (AI/ML) experts; engineers; technologists; scientists; logistics experts; and business administration professionals.
Recognized as one of America's top large company employers, we are a values and ethics driven organization that puts people's safety and well-being first. Regardless of your role or where you serve, at HII, you'll find a supportive and welcoming environment, competitive benefits, and valuable educational and training programs for continual career growth at every stage of your career.
Together we are working to ensure a future where everyone can be free and thrive.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, physical or mental disability, age, or veteran status or any other basis protected by federal, state, or local law.
Do You Need Assistance?
If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process, please send an e-mail to [email protected] and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information. Reasonable accommodations are considered on a case-by-case basis. Please note that only those inquiries concerning a request for reasonable accommodation will be responded to from this email address. Additionally, you may also call 1-844-849-8463 for assistance. Press #3 for HII Mission Technologies.

What Huntington Ingalls Industries employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom