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Prototype Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Sterling Engineering

Prototype Machinist

Schiller Park, IL · On-site

$30 - $35/hr

Prototype Machinist Location : Schiller Park, IL Shift : 1st Shift Hire Type: Direct Hire Pay : $32-$38/hr. Benefits : Medical, dental & vision insurance, 401(k) match, life insurance, paid parental ...

New

Sterling Engineering

Prototype Machinist

Schiller Park, IL · On-site

$30 - $35/hr

Prototype Machinist Location : Schiller Park, IL Shift : 1st Shift Hire Type: Direct Hire Pay : $32-$38/hr. Benefits : Medical, dental & vision insurance, 401(k) match, life insurance, paid parental ...

New

Dynomax Inc.

Prototype Machinist

Wheeling, IL · On-site

Prototype Machinist Dynomax, Inc is developing and building exciting machines and automation! We are seeking a well-rounded Machinist to work in an R&D environment. This is a great opportunity for an ...

Dynomax Inc.

Prototype Machinist

Wheeling, IL · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Prototype Machinist Dynomax, Inc is developing and building exciting machines and automation! We are seeking a well-rounded Machinist to work in an R&D environment. This is a great opportunity for an ...

Acuity, Inc.

Prototype Shop Manager

Des Plaines, IL · On-site

Manage prototype request processes, lead times, standards, and customer communication. * Maintain service line offerings and support cross-functional teams. * Leverage Power Platform and data ...

Acuity Brands

Prototype Shop Manager

Des Plaines, IL · On-site

Manage prototype request processes, lead times, standards, and customer communication. * Maintain service line offerings and support cross-functional teams. * Leverage Power Platform and data ...

YO AI Labs

Design Expert - Remote

Chicago, IL · On-site

$159K - $196K/yr

Create realistic scenarios covering rapid prototyping, iteration, design systems, and product-design-engineering collaboration . * Develop tasks involving AI coding tools such as Cursor, Claude Code ...

YO AI Labs

Design Expert - Remote

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$30 - $70/hr

Create realistic scenarios covering rapid prototyping, iteration, design systems, and product-design-engineering collaboration . * Develop tasks involving AI coding tools such as Cursor, Claude Code ...

Sterling Engineering Inc.

EE Technician

Oak Brook, IL

$30 - $35/hr

This role will focus on building, modifying, testing, and troubleshooting engineering prototypes while working closely with engineers throughout the product development process. This is an excellent ...

Amplify HR

AI Development Engineer

Northbrook, IL · Hybrid

$110K - $130K/yr

Key Responsibilities Build and iterate AI prototypes that can do tens of thousands of financial and pricing calculations to consistently find the best outcomes across PEO workflows including benefits ...

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All JobsPrototype JobsPrototype Jobs in Chicago, IL

Prototype information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$15

$26

$51

How much do prototype jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for prototype in Chicago, IL is $26.92, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.82 and $28.51 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a prototype?

Prototypes are early models or samples of a product built to test a concept or process. They allow designers, engineers, and stakeholders to explore ideas, evaluate functionality, and identify potential issues before full-scale production begins. Prototypes can range from simple sketches or mockups to fully functional models, depending on the stage of development and the goals of the project. Creating a prototype helps teams gather feedback, refine designs, and make informed decisions for the final product.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in prototype development roles?

Professionals in prototype development often encounter challenges such as tight project deadlines, evolving design requirements, and the need to rapidly iterate based on stakeholder feedback. Collaboration between engineers, designers, and product managers is crucial, as prototypes frequently require interdisciplinary input and quick problem-solving. Additionally, balancing innovation with practicality—ensuring the prototype is both creative and feasible for further development—can be demanding but is highly rewarding for those who enjoy dynamic, hands-on work environments.

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

To thrive as a Prototype Engineer, you need strong skills in mechanical design, fabrication techniques, and a relevant engineering degree or technical certification. Familiarity with CAD software, 3D printing, CNC machinery, and rapid prototyping tools is typically required. Creativity, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are standout soft skills in this position. These skills are crucial for efficiently turning design concepts into functional prototypes that drive product innovation.

What is the difference between Prototype vs Product Designer?

AspectPrototype
RoleCreates interactive models to test concepts and functionality
SkillsUI/UX design, wireframing, prototyping tools, user testing
Work EnvironmentDesign teams, product development, user experience departments
CertificationsDesign certifications, UX certifications, proficiency in prototyping tools

While a Prototype focuses on building interactive models to test ideas, a Product Designer oversees the entire product development process, including user experience, visual design, and functionality. Prototypes are tools used within the product design process, making the roles complementary but distinct.

What are popular job titles related to Prototype jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Prototype jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Prototype jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Prototype jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Prototype jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Prototype job openings:

Prototype jobs near you
Infographic showing various Prototype job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 91% In-person, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,994 per year, or $26.9 per hour.

Prototype Machinist

Sterling Engineering

Schiller Park, IL • On-site

$30 - $35/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted yesterday

New

Job description

Title: Prototype MachinistLocation: Schiller Park, ILShift: 1st Shift

Hire Type:Direct Hire

Pay: $32–$38/hr.Benefits: Medical, dental & vision insurance, 401(k) match, life insurance, paid parental leave, professional development, pre-tax transit discounts, employee discounts, summer hours, and team-building activities.We are seeking a Prototype Machinist to join the R&D team and support product innovation through tooling, prototyping, machining, and fixture development. This is a hands-on opportunity for someone who can interpret designs, visualize finished parts, and bring them to life using CNC and manual machining equipment.Job Duties:- Interpret sketches, models, and specifications to determine materials and machining processes.

  • Plan, build, and assemble tooling and fixtures to specifications.
  • Set up and operate CNC and manual machining equipment, including mills, lathes, and grinders.
  • Fabricate prototypes and machine close-tolerance parts.
  • Repair, modify, sharpen, and improve tooling and fixtures.
  • Inspect dimensions, alignment, and clearances to ensure proper fit and function.
  • Perform routine equipment maintenance and maintain a clean work area.
  • Collaborate with the Prototype Shop Manager and track project timelines and updates.

Qualifications:- High School Diploma or GED required.

  • 2–5 years of experience setting up, programming, and operating CNC machines.
  • Knowledge of Mastercam and SolidWorks.
  • Strong understanding of machining and tooling processes.
  • Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.

Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information.

You should be proficient in:

  • GD&T
  • CNC Tooling
  • CNC Programming
  • CNC Machine Setup & Changeover
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