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Prototyping Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Forgent

Prototyping Manager

Woodway, TX · On-site

The Prototyping Manager will play a critical role in bridging engineering and manufacturing--ensuring that lessons learned during prototype builds are systematically captured, documented, and ...

VanTran Industries, Inc.

Prototyping Manager

Waco, TX · On-site

The Prototyping Manager will play a critical role in bridging engineering and manufacturing-ensuring that lessons learned during prototype builds are systematically captured, documented, and ...

MGM Transformers

Prototyping Manager

Waco, TX · On-site

The Prototyping Manager will play a critical role in bridging engineering and manufacturing-ensuring that lessons learned during prototype builds are systematically captured, documented, and ...

ShineOn

Prototyping Technician

Lutz, FL · On-site

You will drive prototype projects from concept through completion - conducting time studies, tracking material costs, managing tooling builds and pricing, running structured experiments, and ...

Apple

Concept Prototyping Engineer

Cupertino, CA · On-site

The team brings expertise in mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, software design, and interaction design, enabling it to build fully functional prototypes that inform decisions across ...

Corning

Prototyping Engineer

Hickory, NC · On-site

$81K - $112K/yr

Deliver prototype designs to Technology Teams for further development and testing or to manufacturing operations for higher volume production. Key Responsibilities • Collaborate with customers ...

Corning

Prototyping Engineer

Hickory, NC · On-site

$81K - $112K/yr

Deliver prototype designs to Technology Teams for further development and testing or to manufacturing operations for higher volume production. Key Responsibilities • Collaborate with customers ...

Dexian DISYS

Prototyping Engineer

Redmond, WA · On-site

$95 - $100/hr

Prototyping Engineer Redmond, WA (100% Onsite) 12 + Months $95-100/HR Role: Next-gen AR/VR hardware prototyping. Experience: 6+ years in hardware/systems integration. Education: Bachelor's in ...

Corning

Prototyping Engineer

Hickory, NC

$81K - $112K/yr

Deliver prototype designs to Technology Teams for further development and testing or to manufacturing operations for higher volume production. Key Responsibilities Collaborate with customers, Market ...

Corning

Sr. Prototyping Engineer

Hickory, NC · On-site

$93K - $128K/yr

Deliver prototype design to Technology Teams for further development and testing or to manufacturing operations for higher volume production. Create and leverage large network of suppliers ...

Apple

Concept Prototyping Engineer

Cupertino, CA

$184K - $324K/yr

These prototypes are meant to be used and shared among Apple stakeholders, so a relentless attention to user-facing functionality is essential.","responsibilities":"Brainstorm, co-develop, and ...

Dexian

Prototyping Engineer

Redmond, WA · On-site

$95 - $100/hr

Prototyping Engineer Redmond, WA (100% Onsite) 12 + Months $95-100/HR Role: Next-gen AR/VR hardware prototyping. Experience: 6+ years in hardware/systems integration. Education: Bachelor's in ...

Apple

CNC Prototyping Manager

Sunnyvale, CA

$183K - $319K/yr

At the PRL, we take pride in building high-quality models, prototypes, and manufacturing solutions that support the development of future Apple products. We have a world-class team and a ...

Corning

Sr. Prototyping Engineer

Hickory, NC · On-site

$93K - $128K/yr

Scope of Position: • Project and Design engineer focused on designing, building, or coordinating prototypes for optical connectivity solutions for fiber optic networks. • Develop knowledge of ...

Apple

Prototyping System Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

Description As a Home Prototyping System Engineer, you will be responsible for the electrical definition and rapid realization of early-stage concepts. Your day-to-day work will span high-level ...

Ellaway Blues Consulting

Be Seen First

Prototyping Technician

Fort Worth, TX · On-site

$24 - $33/hr

Fort Worth, TX A leading advanced manufacturing organization is seeking a Prototype Technician to support the development and scale-up of innovative manufacturing processes within a state-of-the-art ...

Apple

CNC Prototyping Manager

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

At the PRL, we take pride in building high-quality models, prototypes, and manufacturing solutions that support the development of future Apple products. We have a world-class team and a ...

Corning

Sr. Prototyping Engineer

Hickory, NC · On-site

$93K - $128K/yr

Scope of Position: • Project and Design engineer focused on designing, building, or coordinating prototypes for optical connectivity solutions for fiber optic networks. • Develop knowledge of ...

Corning

Sr. Prototyping Engineer

Hickory, NC

$93K - $128K/yr

Deliver prototype design to Technology Teams for further development and testing or to manufacturing operations for higher volume production. Create and leverage large network of suppliers ...

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Prototyping information

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How much do prototyping jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for prototyping in the United States is $26.86, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.15 and $31.01 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a prototype designer?

A prototype designer is a professional who creates preliminary models of products, interfaces, or systems to test and refine ideas before full development. They often use design tools like CAD or prototyping software and collaborate with engineers, developers, or stakeholders to ensure functionality and usability. This role requires skills in design, user experience, and iterative testing.

What is prototyping?

Prototyping is the process of creating an early sample, model, or release of a product to test and validate ideas before full-scale production or development. It allows designers, engineers, and stakeholders to explore concepts, identify potential issues, and gather user feedback in the early stages of a project. Prototypes can range from simple paper sketches to interactive digital models or functional physical items, depending on the project's needs. This iterative approach helps save time and resources by uncovering improvements and reducing risks before committing to final designs.

What is the difference between Prototyping vs UX Designer?

AspectPrototypingUX Designer
Primary FocusCreating interactive models of products or featuresResearching, designing, and improving user experiences
Skills & ToolsPrototyping tools (e.g., Figma, Adobe XD), UI designUser research, wireframing, usability testing
Work EnvironmentDesign teams, product developmentDesign teams, user research teams
CredentialsDesign background, proficiency in prototyping toolsDesign or psychology background, UX certifications

Prototyping involves creating interactive models to test ideas, while UX Design encompasses the broader process of understanding user needs and designing overall user experiences. Both roles often collaborate but focus on different stages of product development.

Do engineers make prototypes?

Prototyping is a common responsibility for engineers, especially in fields like product design, engineering, and development. They create prototypes to test concepts, refine designs, and demonstrate functionality, often using tools like CAD software or 3D printing. Making prototypes helps engineers identify issues early and improve the final product.

What is a prototype maker job description?

A prototype maker is responsible for designing, building, and testing physical or digital prototypes to demonstrate concepts and functionalities. They often use tools like CAD software, 3D printers, or woodworking equipment and need technical skills in engineering, design, or manufacturing. Attention to detail and problem-solving abilities are essential for creating effective prototypes that meet project specifications.

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

To thrive as a Prototyping Specialist, you need a solid background in design principles, engineering fundamentals, and hands-on fabrication, often supported by a degree in industrial design or engineering. Familiarity with CAD software, 3D printing technology, CNC machines, and rapid prototyping tools is typically required. Creativity, problem-solving, and effective communication distinguish standout professionals in this role. These skills are crucial for efficiently translating ideas into tangible models, iterating designs, and collaborating with cross-functional teams in product development.

What are some common challenges faced in a prototyping role, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in prototyping often encounter challenges such as rapidly iterating ideas within tight deadlines, balancing functionality with available resources, and effectively communicating design intent to cross-functional teams. To overcome these, it's helpful to prioritize clear documentation, maintain open communication with engineers and designers, and use agile methodologies to adapt quickly to feedback. Embracing a collaborative mindset and being comfortable with ambiguity are key to navigating the dynamic nature of prototyping work.
More about Prototyping jobs
What cities are hiring for Prototyping jobs? Cities with the most Prototyping job openings:
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Prototyping jobs near you
Infographic showing various Prototyping job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,867 per year, or $26.9 per hour.

Prototyping Manager

Forgent

Woodway, TX • On-site

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

New

Job description

Description:

We are seeking a highly skilled and execution-focused Prototyping Manager to lead the development and initial build of new products through the prototype phase and into early production. This role is responsible for overseeing the first builds of complex systems, identifying design and manufacturing issues, and driving resolutions to ensure scalable, repeatable production.

The Prototyping Manager will play a critical role in bridging engineering and manufacturing—ensuring that lessons learned during prototype builds are systematically captured, documented, and incorporated into design and process improvements. The ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced, scaling environment and brings a strong foundation in manufacturing, quality, and cross-functional leadership.


Key Responsibilities:

  • Lead and manage all prototyping activities, including planning, execution, and review of initial product builds.
  • Oversee hands-on assembly of prototype units, ensuring alignment with engineering intent and design specifications.
  • Identify, document, and track build issues, including design gaps, manufacturability challenges, tooling constraints, and quality risks.
  • Drive root cause analysis and coordinate resolution of prototype issues with engineering, quality, and supply chain teams.
  • Establish and maintain robust documentation processes, including build logs, work instructions, deviation reports, and engineering change requests (ECRs).
  • Partner closely with design engineering to ensure Design for Manufacturability (DFM) and Design for Assembly (DFA) principles are applied.
  • Develop standardized processes to transition prototypes into pilot and full-scale production, reducing variability and rework.
  • Lead continuous improvement initiatives focused on cycle time reduction, yield improvement, and cost optimization.
  • Build and scale prototyping capabilities, including tools, fixtures, workflows, and team structure, to support company growth.
  • Coordinate with supply chain to ensure timely availability of prototype materials and components, including alternates as needed.
  • Provide regular status updates to leadership, highlighting risks, timelines, and readiness for production transition.
  • Mentor and develop a team of technicians and engineers, fostering a culture of accountability, documentation, and operational excellence.

Qualifications


Required:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Industrial Technology, or related field.
  • 7+ years of experience in manufacturing, product development, or prototyping environments.
  • 2+ years of leadership or team management experience.
  • Demonstrated experience with new product introduction (NPI) or prototype-to-production transitions.
  • Strong knowledge of manufacturing processes, assembly methods, and production workflows.
  • Experience with issue tracking, root cause analysis, and corrective action methodologies.

Preferred:

  • Experience in Transformer manufacturing
  • Familiarity with Lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, or continuous improvement methodologies.
  • Experience working in a scaling or high-growth organization.
  • Knowledge of PLM systems, ERP systems, and engineering change management processes.
  • Exposure to regulated or quality-driven environments (ISO, UL, etc.).

Skills and Competencies:

  • Strong leadership and team-building skills with a hands-on, execution-oriented mindset.
  • Exceptional problem-solving abilities with attention to detail and process discipline.
  • Ability to translate prototype learnings into scalable manufacturing solutions.
  • Effective cross-functional collaboration and communication skills.
  • High sense of ownership and accountability in fast-paced, ambiguous environments.
  • Strong organizational skills with ability to manage multiple builds and priorities simultaneously.
  • Continuous improvement mindset with focus on operational efficiency and quality.




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