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Prototype Jobs in Madison, WI (NOW HIRING)

Varsity Tutors

Replit Tutor

Madison, WI · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Ability to explain browser-based development workflows, AI-assisted code generation, and rapid prototyping capabilities while preparing students for collaborative coding and web application ...

DR Power LLP

Supervisor Engineering

Jefferson, WI · On-site

$110 - $140/hr

Coordinate prototype builds, test plans, lab priorities, supplier inputs, design iterations, and teardown or benchmarking activities to support rapid learning, technology validation, and informed ...

New

Haast Autonomous

Avionics & Electrical Engineer

Oregon, WI · On-site

$110 - $160/hr

Joining now means you'll have a direct role in shaping the foundation of Haast -- our culture, engineering process, testing discipline, partner relationships, and the path from prototype to a real ...

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All JobsPrototype JobsPrototype Jobs in Madison, WI

Prototype information

See Madison, WI salary details

$15

$26

$50

How much do prototype jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for prototype in Madison, WI is $26.31, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.34 and $27.84 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 the most commonly searched types of Prototype jobs in Madison, WI?

The most popular types of Prototype jobs in Madison, WI are:

What cities near Madison, WI are hiring for Prototype jobs?

Cities near Madison, WI with the most Prototype job openings:

Prototype jobs near you
Infographic showing various Prototype job openings in Madison, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 91% In-person, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,726 per year, or $26.3 per hour.

Senior Embedded Software Engineer-Innovation Team

Johnson Health Tech North America Inc

Cottage Grove, WI • On-site

$117K - $153K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 20 days ago

Johnson Health Tech rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

153rd of 496 rated machine equipment manufacturers

Job description

Description


Join Our Innovation Team:

At Johnson Health Tech, we develop innovative fitness technology and connected products used by customers around the world. Our KT Innovation team focuses on bringing new ideas to life through embedded software development, rapid prototyping, hardware integration, and next-generation product innovation.

We're looking for a Senior Embedded Software Engineer to help design and develop technology that powers globally recognized fitness brands. In this role, you'll work closely with engineering, product, and manufacturing teams to bring new concepts from prototype to production in a collaborative and fast-paced environment.

This role is ideal for an experienced engineer who enjoys solving complex technical challenges, mentoring others, and driving innovation across both hardware and software platforms.


What You'll Do:

Develop embedded software solutions for innovative fitness equipment and connected technologies

Research, evaluate, and integrate new technologies, features, and product concepts into future products

Create proof-of-concept prototypes and collaborate with Product Management teams for refinement and development

Support new product development efforts by transitioning concepts into production-ready solutions

Develop and maintain technical documentation, specifications, and design requirements

Troubleshoot complex software and hardware integration challenges

Collaborate with global engineering and manufacturing teams, including overseas development partners

Mentor and support less experienced engineers across development initiatives

Contribute to new intellectual property, product innovation, and technology advancements

Work in a fast-moving development environment focused on continuous improvement, iteration, and creative problem-solving

Requirements


What We're Looking For:

Required Qualifications:

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related field

Professional experience with object-oriented programming languages such as C++, C#, or Java

Professional experience with embedded software development using C/C++

Strong understanding of RTOS or bare-metal embedded systems

Experience with scripting languages such as Python or JavaScript

Ability to read electronic schematics and component datasheets

Experience writing technical documentation and design specifications

Strong problem-solving and analytical skills

Excellent written and verbal communication skills

Ability to collaborate across diverse engineering, product, and manufacturing teams

Ability and desire to mentor less experienced engineers


Preferred Qualifications:

Advanced degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related field

Embedded Linux application, driver development, or OS build experience

Experience with networking protocols such as TCP, UDP, or REST APIs

Experience with communication protocols including CAN, USB, SPI, I2C, or RS232/RS485

Experience with hardware/software integration and connected devices

Consumer electronics, IoT, or fitness product development experience

Strong understanding of threading, synchronization, and inter-process communication

Experience working with overseas development or manufacturing teams


Additional Information:

This position is based onsite at our Cottage Grove, WI headquarters

International travel may be required approximately 1-2 times annually


Benefits:

We offer a competitive compensation package and team-oriented environment with strong growth opportunities, including:

Health & Dental Insurance

Company-Paid Life Insurance

401(k)

Paid Time Off

Employee Product Discounts

Wellness Programs


Equal Opportunity Employer, including Protected Veterans and Individuals with Disabilities. 

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