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Prototype Jobs in Milwaukee, WI (NOW HIRING)

The Model Maker will work on the development and refinement of prototype mechanisms. Detailed drawings will be supplied to the Model Builder for parts to be machined or fabricated. The individual is ...

The Model Maker will work on the development and refinement of prototype mechanisms. Detailed drawings will be supplied to the Model Builder for parts to be machined or fabricated. The individual is ...

The Model Maker will work on the development and refinement of prototype mechanisms. Detailed drawings will be supplied to the Model Builder for parts to be machined or fabricated. The individual is ...

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Engineering Technician

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

$50K - $75K/yr

Conduct prototype testing and collect performance data * Perform quality control checks using measurement and inspection tools * Troubleshoot mechanical issues and recommend solutions * Collaborate ...

New

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Conduct prototype testing and collect performance data * Perform quality control checks using measurement and inspection tools * Troubleshoot mechanical issues and recommend solutions * Collaborate ...

New

Be Seen First

Conduct prototype testing and collect performance data * Perform quality control checks using measurement and inspection tools * Troubleshoot mechanical issues and recommend solutions * Collaborate ...

New

Sr. Industrial Designer

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

$85 - $110/hr

Create, coordinate, and evaluate prototypes for customer reviews, internal design reviews, ergonomic assessment, design and manufacturing evaluation. * Actively identify and support cost, value ...

Creates prototype drawings by adapting existing components and designs. Supports sales, and manufacturing with accurate, timely, manufacturable configurations that meet customer requirements while ...

This hands-on position requires expertise in machining and fabrication, to build prototype machines, test stands fixturing and tooling. This is coupled with the ability to execute tests, troubleshoot ...

New

R&D Mechanic

Wauwatosa, WI · On-site

$42.82/hr

Engine Building - prototype through current product along with specific component iteration to support verification of design. Trouble shooting and identify root cause. * Support of regulatory ...

Showing results 21-40

Prototype information

See Milwaukee, WI salary details

$14

$25

$49

How much do prototype jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for prototype in Milwaukee, WI is $25.73, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.90 and $27.26 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 cities near Milwaukee, WI are hiring for Prototype jobs?

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

Infographic showing various Prototype job openings in Milwaukee, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 5% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,511 per year, or $25.7 per hour.

Brake Press Setup Technician

KMC Stampings

Port Washington, WI • On-site

Full-time

Posted 28 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Set up, adjust, and operate a variety of forming equipment including brake press, punch press, hand benders, and roll forming to form, bend, and punch materials.

  • Work from drawings, specifications, patterns, or templates to ensure parts are formed to proper specifications and make recommendations related to part design.

  • Build setup and develop tooling used to produce metal formed parts, and collaborate with team members on technical requirements and process optimization.


Job description

KMC Stampings is a premier metal fabricator offering engineering and tooling expertise driven by continuous improvement. With over 115 years in southeastern WI, we still offer a family feel with a safe environment focused on providing hands on training opportunities to all employees through a progressive training program. Employees can expand their knowledge of machinery, setups, tool and dies and even engineering. Come grow with KMC Stampings!


KMC is seeking a 1st Shift Brake Press Setup Technician. This role will safely and efficiently set-up and operate a variety of brake presses, hand benders, pneumatic rollers, machining centers and other equipment to form and bend a variety of materials/parts accurately to specifications and to rate. Trains and provides guidance to new and existing employees at various levels of knowledge/experience and various position levels from production helper, operator, set-up operator, set-up technician, leads and supervision.


RESPONSIBILITIES: 


  • Set-up, adjust, and operate a variety of forming equipment including brake press, punch press , hand benders and roll forming to form, bend and punch a variety of materials. 
  • Set-up bending equipment including safety equipment, dies, locating gauges, adjust ram stroke and tonnage to form materials to proper angle, radii and lengths.
  • Work from drawings, specifications, patterns, or templates. Apply experience to make recommendations as they relate to part design.
  • Use scale, protractor, fixed angle and radii gauges
  • Verify quantity & quality of material
  • Responsible for strict adherence to all company/departmental policies and procedures related to safety and conduct
  • New product development to meet KMC manufacturing production standards and achieve customer quality requirements and KMC standards of workmanship
  • Prototype development and production to meet customer quality and dimensional requirements using various manufacturing processes including but not limited to – laser, brake press, hand bending, punch press, machining, resistance welding, manual welding, finishing, assembly and tool design/build.
  • Participation in internal and customer product and print design reviews to help define the manufacturing process for new prototypes
  • Demonstrate excellent production skill & proficiency
  • Contribute to quality and cost performance objectives
  • Build setup and the development of tooling used to produce metal formed parts
  • Collaborate openly with upstream and down team members, tool builders, production & design engineers on timelines, technical requirements and challenges encountered during the prototype process
  • Define & share opportunities for optimization of a prototype product with the production engineering team 
  • Willingness to cross-train and operate new fabrication equipment to develop and produce prototype and production parts
  • Willingness to assist, setup for, and train Production Helper, Operator, and Setup Operator level associates within the facility


QUALIFICATIONS: 

  • Good math, reading, writing skills
  • Ability to read Blueprints and understand Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing (GD&T)
  • Experienced in the use of measurement tools including: Optical comparators, Calipers, Height gages, Micrometers,