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Prototype Jobs in Milwaukee, WI (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

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

Sr. Industrial Designer

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

$127K/yr

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

Sewer

Kenosha, WI · On-site

Construct prototype garments using experimental fabrics, components, and pattern templates. * Discuss garment construction and procedures with collaborators. * Verify pattern, construction, and ...

Showing results 41-60

Prototype information

See Milwaukee, WI salary details

$14

$25

$49

How much do prototype jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 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.

Sr Additive Manufacturing Technician

MILWAUKEE TOOL

Menomonee Falls, WI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 12 days ago


Job description

Job Description:
Come Be DISRUPTIVE With Us!At Milwaukee Tool, our most valued resource is our people. People who work with a passion to be the best, with unparalleled pride in their work and the Milwaukee Tool brand. We know that the only way to sustain growth and success is to invest in our people's development from day one. Our teams impact every innovative step of the new product development process. The fast-paced, collaborative environment delivers disruptive, best-in-class products by working directly with end users to understand their needs for heavy-duty, high-performance solutions.
As a Senior Additive Technician, you will play a critical role in supporting Milwaukee Tool's product development efforts through advanced additive manufacturing technologies. You will leverage your technical expertise to produce high-quality prototypes, maintain industry-leading equipment, and help drive innovation from concept to reality.
You'll Also Be DISRUPTIVE Through These Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Independently operate, maintain, and optimize additive manufacturing equipment across multiple technologies including SLS, SLA, DLP, DMLS, FDM, and other emerging platforms.
  • Prepare, schedule, and monitor prototype and production builds to ensure quality, efficiency, and on-time delivery.
  • Perform post-processing activities including de-powdering, support removal, curing, surface finishing, machining, and part inspection.
  • Troubleshooting and maintenance efforts on additive manufacturing equipment and associated post-processing systems.
  • Collaborate closely with engineering teams to support product development, design validation, and rapid prototyping initiatives.
  • Provide technical recommendations on additive manufacturing processes, materials, and design-for-additive best practices.
  • Support additive manufacturing workflows, build queues, and project priorities in a fast-paced team environment.
  • Support material qualification, inventory management, and safe handling procedures for powders, resin, and filament-based systems.
  • Train technicians and team members in equipment operation, troubleshooting, and additive manufacturing best practices.
  • Evaluate and implement process improvements to increase throughput, quality, repeatability, and machine utilization.
  • Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work environment following 6S and laboratory safety standards.
  • Support the evaluation and implementation of new additive manufacturing technologies and materials.
  • Partner with cross-functional teams to identify opportunities where additive manufacturing can accelerate product development and testing.
  • Continuously pursue technical growth and remain current on industry trends, emerging technologies, and best practices.

What TOOLS You'll Bring with You:
  • Associate's degree in engineering technology, Manufacturing Technology, Additive Manufacturing, or related field; or equivalent experience.
  • 5+ years of hands-on experience in additive manufacturing, prototyping, manufacturing, or engineering support roles.
  • Ability to set up and operate Manual or CNC machining equipment.
  • Experience operating various industrial additive manufacturing equipment
  • Strong understanding of additive manufacturing processes, materials, and post-processing techniques.
  • Experience with powder-based, resin-based, and extrusion-based additive technologies.
  • Ability to troubleshoot and perform maintenance on mechanical, electrical, and process-related equipment.
  • Familiarity with CAD software and build preparation software.
  • Strong organizational, documentation, and project management skills.
  • Excellent communication and collaboration skills with the ability to work effectively across engineering teams.
  • Demonstrated ability to mentor and develop less experienced technicians.
  • Passion for innovation, continuous improvement, and hands-on problem solving.

We provide these great perks and benefits:
  • Robust health, dental and vision insurance plans.
  • Generous 401 (K) savings plan.
  • Education assistance.
  • On-site wellness, fitness center, food, and coffee service.
  • And many more, check out our benefits site HERE.

Milwaukee Tool is an equal opportunity employer.