ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Prototyper Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Knowmadics

Rapid Prototype Engineer II

Wichita, KS · On-site

$32 - $35.75/hr

Lawton OK; or Round Rock, TX Job Purpose/Summary This role is for a Rapid Prototype Engineer II to design, fabricate, assemble, and validate hardware prototypes supporting research and development ...

Siffron

Prototype Technician

Rockford, IL · On-site

$24 - $29/hr

PERFORMANCE MEASURES · siffron performance plan · On time completion of prototypes · Accuracy of finished prototypes · Compliance with Company Policies (i.e. Safety, Attendance, etc.). SUPERVISOR ...

TEAK ISLE INC

Prototype Engineer

Ocoee, FL · On-site

$60K - $65K/yr

Description Teak Isle is seeking a mechanically inclined individual, skilled in 3D Solid Modeling, with people skills to work with our Sales and Prototype teams to develop new products requested by ...

TEAK ISLE INC

Prototype Engineer

Ocoee, FL · On-site

$60K - $65K/yr

Description Teak Isle is seeking a mechanically inclined individual, skilled in 3D Solid Modeling, with people skills to work with our Sales and Prototype teams to develop new products requested by ...

Manpower

Prototype Operator

Duluth, MN

$23/hr

As a Prototype Operator, you will be part of the Production department supporting engineering and manufacturing teams. The ideal candidate will demonstrate attention to detail, technical aptitude ...

Ford Motor Company

Prototype Planning Lead

Allen Park, MI · Hybrid

$115K - $218K/yr

The Prototype Planning Supervisor (LL6) plays a critical leadership role in Ford's new model prototype organization, responsible for end-to-end prototype planning and delivery for a vehicle platform.

Siffron, Inc

Prototype Technician

Rockford, IL · On-site

$24 - $29/hr

PERFORMANCE MEASURES • siffron performance plan • On time completion of prototypes • Accuracy of finished prototypes • Compliance with Company Policies (i.e. Safety, Attendance, etc.

Knowmadics, Inc

Rapid Prototype Engineer II

Wichita, KS · On-site

$32 - $35.75/hr

Lawton OK; or Round Rock, TX Job Purpose/Summary This role is for a Rapid Prototype Engineer II to design, fabricate, assemble, and validate hardware prototypes supporting research and development ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsPrototyper Jobs

Prototyper information

See salary details

$28.5K

$72.8K

$119K

How much do prototyper jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for prototyper in the United States is $72,781.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,500.00 and $83,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Prototyper vs UX Designer?

AspectPrototyperUX Designer
Required CredentialsTypically a background in design, UI/UX, or related fields; proficiency in prototyping toolsDegree in design, psychology, or human-computer interaction; strong research and design skills
Work EnvironmentCollaborates closely with designers and developers; focuses on creating interactive prototypesConducts user research, creates wireframes, and designs user experiences
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in tech, software, and product development companiesCommon in digital agencies, tech firms, and product teams

While both roles involve design skills, a Prototyper primarily focuses on building interactive prototypes to test ideas, whereas a UX Designer handles the overall user experience design, including research, wireframing, and user testing. The roles often overlap but serve different stages of the product development process.

What jobs pay 500,000 a year in the US?

Prototypers typically do not earn $500,000 annually; such high salaries are usually associated with executive roles, specialized consultants, or entrepreneurs. High-paying jobs in the US often require advanced skills, extensive experience, or ownership of a successful business. Salary levels above $500,000 are rare for standard prototyping positions and are more common in executive management or highly profitable industries.

What are some common challenges Prototypers face when balancing speed and quality in their work?

Prototypers often work under tight deadlines to quickly bring concepts to life, which can make it challenging to balance rapid iteration with the need for polished, functional prototypes. It’s important to prioritize core features and user flows to ensure prototypes are both testable and informative, without getting bogged down in perfectionism. Collaboration with designers and engineers is key to maintaining this balance, as clear communication helps set realistic expectations for what the prototype should achieve within the given timeframe.

What does a prototyper do?

A prototyper designs and creates prototypes of products, such as software, hardware, or physical objects, to test concepts and functionality. They often use tools like CAD software, 3D printers, or coding skills to develop models that help evaluate design ideas before full production. Prototypers work closely with designers and engineers to refine concepts and ensure feasibility.

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

To thrive as a Prototyper, you need strong skills in design thinking, rapid prototyping, and user experience principles, often supported by a background in industrial design, engineering, or a related field. Familiarity with prototyping tools such as Figma, Sketch, 3D modeling software, and sometimes hardware platforms like Arduino is typically required. Creativity, problem-solving, adaptability, and effective communication are essential soft skills that help bring abstract concepts to life and collaborate with cross-functional teams. These skills and qualities enable Prototypers to quickly iterate and refine ideas, ensuring that innovative solutions are effectively tested and validated before full-scale production.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

A prototyper can potentially earn $10,000 a month through freelance or contract work designing prototypes for products, especially if they have strong skills in CAD, 3D modeling, or user experience design. Success depends on experience, portfolio quality, and client demand, often requiring self-education or certifications rather than a formal degree.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior engineers in fields such as software, petroleum, and aerospace can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially with experience, specialized skills, and bonuses. High-level roles often require advanced degrees, certifications, and leadership responsibilities.

What is a Prototyper?

A Prototyper is a professional who creates early models or mock-ups of products, interfaces, or systems to test and refine concepts before full-scale development. Prototypers use various tools and materials to quickly build and iterate on designs, helping teams visualize ideas, gather feedback, and identify potential issues early in the process. Their work is essential in product development, UX/UI design, and engineering, as it saves time and resources by revealing challenges before final implementation.
More about Prototyper jobs
What cities are hiring for Prototyper jobs? Cities with the most Prototyper job openings:
What states have the most Prototyper jobs? States with the most job openings for Prototyper jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Prototyper jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Prototyper jobs are:
Prototyper jobs near you
Rapid Prototype Engineer II

Rapid Prototype Engineer II

Knowmadics

Wichita, KS • On-site

$32 - $35.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

Candidate should live within driving distance of the following areas: Wichita, KS; Lawton OK; or Round Rock, TX
Job Purpose/Summary
This role is for a Rapid Prototype Engineer II to design, fabricate, assemble, and validate hardware prototypes supporting research and development efforts across mechanical, electrical, and integrated systems.
You will work alongside hardware, electrical, and software engineers to rapidly translate concepts into functional prototypes using a combination of in-house production capabilities and external manufacturing partners. This role includes hands-on ownership of fabrication, assembly, wiring, and system integration, while coordinating outsourced production and finishing processes as needed.
This is an individual contributor role with responsibility across prototype development, vendor coordination, and build/test execution in fast-paced, iteration-driven environments.
Duties and Responsibilities
  • Design, fabricate, and modify prototype components using variety of tools (e.g., 3D printers, CNC machines, laser cutters, and hand tools).
  • Evaluate designs and select appropriate materials, fabrication methods, and finishing processes (e.g., anodizing, painting, coating, polishing).
  • Build and assemble mechanical and electro-mechanical systems, including structural, enclosure, and mounting solutions.
  • Design and fabricate wiring harnesses and cables, including cutting, crimping, soldering, labeling, and routing for prototype systems.
  • Integrate electrical components, connectors, and subsystems, ensuring reliable and serviceable wiring practices.
  • Coordinate with third-party vendors for outsourced manufacturing (e.g., machining, PCB fabrication, cable assemblies, finishing services).
  • Manage vendor relationships, including sourcing, quoting, scheduling, and quality verification of delivered parts.
  • Perform functional testing and quality assurance on prototypes to validate performance, reliability, and design intent.
  • Troubleshoot mechanical and electrical issues, and iterate on designs based on test results and team feedback.
  • Support system integration efforts across mechanical, electrical, and embedded subsystems.
  • Document build processes, wiring diagrams, bill of materials (BOMs), and vendor selections.
  • Source tools, materials, and equipment required to support prototyping and fabrication efforts.
  • Package and ship prototypes to internal teams and partners, ensuring proper handling, protection, and documentation.
  • Maintain a safe, clean, and organized prototyping and production environment.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional engineering teams to support rapid development cycles.
  • Complete other duties as requested.

Qualifications
  • Eligible to obtain a U.S. Security Clearance - U.S. Citizenship required.
  • Formal education in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related field, or a suitable mix of education and hands-on experience.
  • Professional experience working in prototyping labs, machine shops, or makerspace environments.
  • Hands-on experience with fabrication tools and processes (e.g., 3D printing, CNC machining, laser cutting, manual fabrication).
  • Experience building and assembling mechanical and electro-mechanical systems.
  • Experience designing and fabricating wiring harnesses and cables, including crimping, soldering, connector selection, and cable management.
  • Strong understanding of materials (plastics, metals, composites) and finishing processes.
  • Experience coordinating with external vendors and managing outsourced manufacturing.
  • Ability to read and interpret technical drawings, CAD models, schematics, and wiring diagrams.
  • Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills across mechanical and electrical systems.
  • Ability to manage multiple prototype efforts in parallel in fast-paced environments.
  • Strong communication skills for collaboration with cross-functional teams.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, Fusion 360, or similar).
  • Experience with basic electronics prototyping and integration (PCB handling, power systems, connectors).
  • Familiarity with design for manufacturability (DFM) and design for assembly (DFA) principles.
  • Experience working with rapid prototyping and low-volume manufacturing vendors.
  • Knowledge of cable standards, harness best practices, and environmental considerations (strain relief, shielding, routing).
  • Experience supporting early-stage product development or research programs.

Working conditions
  • Employees may be called upon to participate in in-person meetings, trainings, or company functions at Knowmadics offices or other designated locations. Travel in support of business operations may also be required, and employees are expected to comply with these obligations as part of their position.

Physical requirements
May include standing for extended periods, working with tools and machinery, lifting or moving materials or tools, and handling small components.
Direct reports
None

Apply