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Prototype Welder Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Chase Staffing - Greenville, SC

Welder

Piedmont, SC · On-site

$22/hr

You will play a key role in prototype building, mentoring team members, and ensuring quality and ... welding equipment safely and efficiently - Lead by example and mentor junior welders - Support ...

Micro Matic USA

Prototype Technician

Brooksville, FL

Assists with the manufacturing of Prototype Assemblies of new products or new revision of existing ... weld, Metal Fabrication, and/or Machining preferred for as needed operations. LANGUAGE SKILLS ...

Protingent

Prototype Build Technician

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$45 - $60/hr

Prototype Build Technician Position Description : Protingent Staffing has an exciting direct hire ... Skills in CNC machining, welding, or other fabrication techniques * Background in automotive repair ...

Technique Inc

Welder

Jackson, MI · On-site

$17.50 - $23/hr

Assemble welded products - Assemble exhaust assemblies, racks, and prototyping fixtures. * Perform 1st piece layouts - Perform 1st piece table layouts and troubleshoot builds using CMM reports to get ...

Technique, Inc.

Welder

Jackson, MI · On-site

$17.50 - $23/hr

Assemble welded products - Assemble exhaust assemblies, racks, and prototyping fixtures. * Perform 1st piece layouts - Perform 1st piece table layouts and troubleshoot builds using CMM reports to get ...

Technique Inc

Welder

Concord, NC · On-site

$17.75 - $23.50/hr

Assemble welded products - Assemble exhaust assemblies, racks, and prototyping fixtures. * Perform 1st piece layouts - Perform 1st piece table layouts and troubleshoot builds using CMM reports to get ...

Technique, Inc.

Welder

Concord, NC · On-site

$17.75 - $23.50/hr

Assemble welded products - Assemble exhaust assemblies, racks, and prototyping fixtures. * Perform 1st piece layouts - Perform 1st piece table layouts and troubleshoot builds using CMM reports to get ...

Exact

Prototype Technician

Brooksville, FL · On-site

Assists with the manufacturing of Prototype Assemblies of new products or new revision of existing ... weld, Metal Fabrication, and/or Machining preferred for as needed operations. LANGUAGE SKILLS ...

Manufacturing Inc

Welder Fabricator

Webster, MA

$20.75 - $26.75/hr

Interpret travelers, blueprints, and sketches to prototype products and custom fixtures that meet ... Ensure every weld and fabricated part meets customer specifications and safety requirements.

Flexible Metal Inc.

Welder

Hamburg, MI · On-site

$18 - $24/hr

SUMMARY OF ROLE Weld metal components, products, assemblies and parts including but not limited to ... Prototype and tooling fabrication experience preferred

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How much do prototype welder jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 23, 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 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.
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Prototype Welder jobs near you
Infographic showing various Prototype Welder job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 1% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,804 per year, or $21.5 per hour.
Prototype Machinist - Automated Equipment

Prototype Machinist - Automated Equipment

AeroSpec Inc

Chandler, AZ • On-site

$28 - $40/hr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

Are you an experienced manual machinist, toolmaker, or machine builder? Do you enjoy working in a prototype and short-run environment where you can solve challenging tooling and machining problems? If so, AeroSpec's Prototype Machinist role may be a great next step in your career.
About AeroSpec, Inc.
AeroSpec is a global leader in innovative design, engineering, and manufacturing of automated assembly and test equipment. Since 1982, the company has designed more than 1,000 custom production and test systems for the medical, pharmaceutical, semiconductor, aerospace, and automotive industries. Core competencies include advanced high-speed motion controls, precision component placement, custom metrology systems, machine vision, and robot and laser integration. AeroSpec is ISO 9001 certified and provides CE certifications, UL markings, and FDA medical and pharmaceutical validation. For details about our equipment portfolio and capabilities, visit AeroSpec at www.aerospecinc.com.
Position Overview:
  • Join AeroSpec's established precision prototype and short-run machine shop team
  • Work in a shop with extensive capability in manual machining, CNC machining, welding, and precision sheet metal
  • Plan, fabricate, assemble, and fine-tune components, fixtures, tooling, and machine mechanisms
  • Support highly automated production and test equipment builds
  • Collaborate with Engineering and Manufacturing teams to solve machining, tooling, and design-for-manufacturing challenges
  • Work full-time, first shift, 7:00 a.m.-3:30 p.m., with overtime opportunities

Requirements:
  • Minimum of 8 years of experience as a Prototype Machinist or Tool Maker
  • Highly skilled with manual machine tools, including manual mills, CNC knee mills, engine and toolroom lathes, surface grinders, and related equipment
  • Proficient reading blueprints and interpreting specifications, tolerances, and GD&T
  • Able to perform in-process part inspections using manual measurement tools and equipment
  • Knowledge of programming and operating CNC toolroom mills a plus
  • Capable of solving challenging tooling problems a plus
  • Background in sheet metal fabrication a plus
  • Experience building highly functional machines and mechanisms a plus
  • Basic knowledge of CAD/CAM programs such as AutoCAD/SolidWorks/SurfCam a plus

Benefits:
  • Highly competitive wages, dependent on experience
  • Comprehensive benefits package
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Excellent growth and promotion opportunities, including technical and management paths
  • Training opportunities
  • Paid time off, including vacation, sick time, and holidays
  • Education reimbursement plan

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