1

Prototype Welder Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Prototype Technician

Rockford, IL · On-site

$24 - $29/hr

Perform welding/metal fabrication to specification Build custom prototypes and standard samples to specifications using CNC or manual equipment. Determine materials, tools, and equipment requirements ...

Welder/Brazer 4 (Onsite)

Anaheim Hills, CA · On-site

$23.50 - $31.75/hr

This role offers a unique blend of production and development work, with prototype welding projects making up a significant portion of the workload at times. You will use a variety of measuring ...

This role offers a unique blend of production and development work, with prototype welding projects making up a significant portion of the workload at times. You will use a variety of measuring ...

Prototype Technician

Rockford, IL · On-site

$24 - $29/hr

... Perform welding/metal fabrication to specification · Build custom prototypes and standard samples to specifications using CNC or manual equipment. · Determine materials, tools, and equipment ...

Welder - Hiring Now

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$29.81 - $38.46/hr

This role offers a unique blend of production and development work, with prototype welding projects making up a significant portion of the workload at times. You will use a variety of measuring ...

Prototype Technician

Rockford, IL · On-site

$24 - $29/hr

... Perform welding/metal fabrication to specification • Build custom prototypes and standard samples to specifications using CNC or manual equipment. • Determine materials, tools, and equipment ...

Guide Team Members from your experience in developing CNC programs for machining, correct welding methods, fixture/jig/mold design * Design/Build prototype models, patters, bladder lamination tooling ...

This role offers a unique blend of production and development work, with prototype welding projects making up a significant portion of the workload at times. You will use a variety of measuring ...

Welder

Mansfield, OH · On-site

$25 - $27.94/hr

In this role, you will perform precision welding on both production units and prototype components, working with specialized materials such as stainless steel, precious metals, and semi-precious ...

Welder

Westlake, OH

$18 - $23.75/hr

This position will be responsible for TIG welding custom prototype parts of various metals including aluminum, stainless steel, steel, and brass, and MIG welding steel frames and heavy sheet metal up ...

Welder

Westlake, OH · On-site

$18 - $23.75/hr

This position will be responsible for TIG welding custom prototype parts of various metals including aluminum, stainless steel, steel, and brass, and MIG welding steel frames and heavy sheet metal up ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Prototype Welder information

See salary details

$14

$21

$27

How much do prototype welder jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for prototype welder in the United States is $21.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.99 and $23.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Prototype Welder?

A Prototype Welder is a skilled tradesperson who specializes in creating, assembling, and welding prototype parts or products, often for testing and development purposes. Unlike standard production welders, prototype welders work closely with engineers and designers to fabricate one-of-a-kind or small-batch components, typically using a variety of welding techniques and materials. Their work requires a high degree of precision, adaptability, and problem-solving ability, as they often need to interpret technical drawings and make adjustments on the fly. Prototype welders play a crucial role in the research and development process for manufacturing and engineering companies.

What is the highest paid welder job?

The highest paid welding jobs are often in specialized fields such as underwater welding, aerospace welding, or working on large-scale infrastructure projects, with annual salaries exceeding $100,000. These roles typically require advanced skills, certifications, and sometimes hazardous environment training, and often involve working in remote or challenging conditions.

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

To thrive as a Prototype Welder, you need advanced welding skills, blueprint reading abilities, and a background in fabrication, often supported by vocational training or certification in welding. Familiarity with tools such as TIG and MIG welders, CNC machines, and measuring equipment, as well as expertise with welding codes and safety standards, is essential. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and adaptability are standout soft skills for this position. These skills and qualities are crucial for producing precise, high-quality prototypes and collaborating effectively with engineering teams to refine new products.

What is the difference between Prototype Welder vs Production Welder?

AspectPrototype WelderProduction Welder
CertificationsTypically requires welding certifications like AWSSame certifications often required
Work EnvironmentWorks on custom, one-off projects or prototypesWorks on high-volume manufacturing lines
Job FocusFocuses on creating initial prototypes and testingFocuses on consistent, repetitive welding tasks
Industry UsageUsed in R&D, aerospace, automotive prototypingUsed in mass production facilities

Prototype Welders specialize in creating initial prototypes and testing new designs, often working on custom projects. Production Welders focus on high-volume, repetitive welding tasks in manufacturing lines. Both roles require similar certifications, but their work environments and objectives differ significantly.

What are some typical challenges faced by a Prototype Welder, and how can they be addressed?

Prototype Welders often work with new or experimental designs, which means encountering unique materials, unfamiliar blueprints, and evolving project specifications. One common challenge is adapting to frequent changes in design or technique, requiring flexibility and strong problem-solving skills. Effective communication with engineers and designers is essential to clarify requirements and resolve uncertainties quickly. Staying updated on the latest welding methods and safety protocols also helps in overcoming technical obstacles and ensuring high-quality results.
More about Prototype Welder jobs
What job categories do people searching Prototype Welder jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Prototype Welder jobs are:
Infographic showing various Prototype Welder job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 96% Full Time, 1% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,804 per year, or $21.5 per hour.
Prototype Technician

Prototype Technician

siffron

Rockford, IL • On-site

$24 - $29/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago


Siffron rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Description

About siffron:

siffron is a leading provider of retail merchandising solutions, specializing in designing and manufacturing innovative display and signage systems. We partner with top brands and retailers across various industries to enhance their product presentation and optimize customer experiences.


Our company values innovation and encourages creativity, offering a collaborative work environment that fosters growth and professional development. siffron continues to push boundaries and set new standards in the retail market, establishing itself as an industry leader. 


siffron Benefits:

The salary range for this role is $24.00 - $29.00 per hour. siffron considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the role, function, a candidate's work experience, location, education/training, and key skills.  

  • 401(k) match (up to 50% of 6%)
  • Annual siffron profit share/safe harbor match
  • Tuition reimbursement program for eligible employees
  • Medical, dental, vision insurance after 30 days of employment
  • Flexible spending account and/or health savings account
  • Vacation/Personal/Bereavement leaves
  • Paid parental leave
  • Short- & long-term disability coverage
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Employee referral bonus program
  • siffron Shared Ownership Works Program
  • 10 paid holidays

JOB SUMMARY

Under the direction of the supervisor, this individual will be responsible for fabricating custom prototypes to engineering specifications for any potential new products or customer projects.


Schedule: 5:00am - 3:30pm, Monday - Thursday (Overtime possible on Friday/Saturday)

Requirements

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Read and understand technical drawings

Set up and operate shop equipment and machine tools such as lathes, mills, CNC, and press brake as well as hand tools such as grinders.

Perform welding/metal fabrication to specification

Build custom prototypes and standard samples to specifications using CNC or manual equipment.

Determine materials, tools, and equipment requirements for each prototype request.

Work with Engineering to keep Prototype list up-to-date with projects, priorities, and due dates.

Engineering collaboration. Analyze engineering drawings, blueprints, schematics, and sketches to plan, lay out, and determine the sequence of operations.

Assessment of designs and ability to design improvements.

Maintain accurate project records of the fabrication process and any modifications while documenting through hand notes and photos. 

Adhere to workshop safety protocols, maintaining a clean and safe work environment. 

Packaging and shipping of prototypes.

Part and Material currier.

Work on multiple projects at the same time.

Performs other duties as assigned.


PERFORMANCE MEASURES

 siffron performance plan

On time completion of prototypes

Accuracy of finished prototypes

Compliance with Company Policies (i.e. Safety, Attendance, etc.).


SUPERVISOR RESPONSIBILITY

None


POSITION TYPE/EXPECTED HOURS OF WORK

Non-Exempt

40 hours per week


EDUCATION, LICENSES, AND EXPERIENCE

High School diploma or equivalent.

Formal training or apprenticeship a plus.

3-5 years of fabrication, machining, welding is preferred.


SKILLS (Language, Mathematical, Reasoning, Other)

  • Good trouble shooting and problem-solving abilities.
  • Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings.
  • Good mechanical background with strong math skills (Basic, Geometry, Trig).
  • Able to work with limited supervision in a fast-paced environment.
  • Good oral and written communication skills.
  • Computer literate with working knowledge of software such as Microsoft Office.
  •  Knowledge of Solidworks, CAD 3-D graphic and manufacturing drawings.

WORKING CONDITIONS/PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Ability to lift up to 50 lbs.

The ability to stand, walk, bend, & twist for long period of time.

Close Vision: Must be able to read small words, numbers, and pictures (examples: Blueprint, micrometer).

Able to handle last minute interruptions.

Managing multiple tasks.

The employee is frequently required to stand and walk or move to other locations within or outside the facility.

The employee may be required to travel to vendors or customers including overnight trips.