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Prototyping Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Description As a prototyping engineer you will be responsible for emulating a complex SOC & are expected to: -Review specifications, develop prototyping plans and specifications. -Work closely with ...

Description As a prototyping engineer you will be responsible for emulating a complex SOC & are expected to: -Review specifications, develop prototyping plans and specifications. -Work closely with ...

The Home Hardware team is looking for a highly motivated and creative Electrical Engineer to help define, prototype, and build the future of Apple home product concepts. In this 0-to-1 role, you will ...

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 ...

We are seeking a versatile Sr. Prototyping Software Engineer with end-to-end expertise to accelerate the exploration of new home product concepts. In this role, you will be responsible for the entire ...

Sr. Prototyping Software Engineer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$143K - $189K/yr

We are seeking a versatile Sr. Prototyping Software Engineer with end-to-end expertise to accelerate the exploration of new home product concepts. In this role, you will be responsible for the entire ...

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Prototyping Engineer information

What does a typical day look like for a Prototyping Engineer?

A typical day for a Prototyping Engineer often involves collaborating with design and development teams to translate concepts and sketches into working physical models. You may spend time using CAD software, operating fabrication equipment like 3D printers, and assembling or testing prototypes for functionality. Troubleshooting issues and iterating designs based on test results are frequent tasks. This role requires consistent teamwork with engineers, designers, and sometimes clients to ensure the prototyping process aligns with overall project goals.

What is a Prototyping Engineer job?

A Prototyping Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and testing prototypes of new products or components. They work with design teams to refine concepts, select materials, and ensure that prototypes meet functional and performance requirements. This role involves using various fabrication techniques, such as 3D printing, CNC machining, and electronics assembly. Prototyping Engineers collaborate with R&D, manufacturing, and quality teams to iterate and improve designs before full-scale production. Their goal is to validate ideas quickly and efficiently, reducing development time and costs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Prototyping Engineer position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Prototyping Engineer, you need strong skills in mechanical or electrical engineering, rapid prototyping, and CAD design, usually supported by a relevant engineering degree. Knowledge of 3D printing, CNC machining, and prototyping software (such as SolidWorks or AutoCAD) is typically essential, along with familiarity with relevant safety standards. Creative problem-solving, collaboration, and effective communication are valuable soft skills in this role. These abilities enable engineers to quickly turn ideas into functional prototypes, ensuring efficient product development and iterative testing.

What are the most commonly searched types of Prototyping Engineer jobs in California? The most popular types of Prototyping Engineer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Prototyping Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Prototyping Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Prototyping Engineer job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 13% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.
Prototyping Engineer

$100K - $130K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 24 days ago


University Of California Santa Barbara rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

178th of 539 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Prototyping Engineer


Electrical & Computer Engineering

University of California, Santa Barbara


Summary of Job Details  

The Protofab Packaging Engineer supports operation, development, and growth of the OASIS advanced packaging and prototyping facility (Protofab). The position provides technical expertise in microelectronics, photonics, and optoelectronic device packaging, enabling researchers and external users to translate device concepts into functional packaged prototypes. Responsibilities include process development, hands-on operation of advanced packaging equipment, user support and training, equipment maintenance, documentation, and continuous improvement of facility capabilities.


Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in related area and/or equivalent experience/training.

• 1-3 years Semiconductor packaging, microfabrication, device prototyping, or closely related engineering environment.

• Knowledge of engineering principles and methods for prototype development and process optimization.

• Ability to independently troubleshoot tools, processes, and assembly challenges.

• Experience developing SOPs, recipes, training materials, and technical documentation.

• Strong written and verbal communication skills with technical and non-technical users.

• Ability to train users and communicate safe operating practices.

• Strong organizational skills with ability to prioritize multiple projects.

• Collaborative mindset with faculty, students, startups, vendors, and industry partners.

• Familiarity with laboratory safety, hazardous materials handling, ESD controls, and quality systems.


Special Conditions of Employment

• Satisfactory criminal history background check.

• UCSB is a Tobacco-Free environment.


Hiring/Budgeted Salary: $100,000 to $130,000/yr.

Full Salary Range: $85,400 to $156,800/yr.

Working Days and Hours: M - F, 8am-5pm

Benefits Eligibility: Full Benefits 


The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. 


Application review begins 6/15/26. 

Apply online at https://jobs.ucsb.edu

Job # 86485


Company Description

UC Santa Barbara is the largest employer in Santa Barbara County. We’ve also been voted its best place to work. Our inspirational environment — from our oceanside location to our vibrant campus culture — plays no small role in that. What role will you play? Peruse our current job openings!