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Prototyping Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

The prototype buyer is responsible for supporting prototype and development procurement activities for the Core /Application projects within an assigned region. The role acts as a key interface ...

The prototype buyer is responsible for supporting prototype and development procurement activities for the Core /Application projects within an assigned region. The role acts as a key interface ...

Technique is looking for a Prototype Stamping Technician to join our team at our Jackson, Michigan facility. This role involves developing a progressive skillset for the production of parts from ...

Technique is looking for a Prototype Welding Technician to join our team at our Jackson, Michigan facility. This position reports to the Prototype Welding Manager. The role requires a progressive use ...

Technique is looking for a Prototype Welding Technician to join our team at our Jackson, Michigan facility. This position reports to the Prototype Welding Manager. The role requires a progressive use ...

Welder / Prototype

Sterling Heights, MI ยท On-site

$18.25 - $22.25/hr

Big 3 Precision Products is looking to fill open Prototype and Fixture Builder positions, with experienced steel rack fabricators for the Automotive Industry. Candidates need to be self-motivated and ...

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Prototyping information

See Michigan salary details

$12

$23

$36

How much do prototyping jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for prototyping in Michigan is $23.41, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.46 and $27.02 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.
What are the most commonly searched types of Prototyping jobs in Michigan? The most popular types of Prototyping jobs in Michigan are:
What are popular job titles related to Prototyping jobs in Michigan? For Prototyping jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Prototyping jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Prototyping jobs in Michigan are:
Infographic showing various Prototyping job openings in Michigan as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $48,694 per year, or $23.4 per hour.
Prototype Buyer

Prototype Buyer

Magna

Southfield, MI โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Posted 24 days ago


Job description

Job descriptions may display in multiple languagesbased on your language selection.

What we offer:
At Magna, you can expect an engaging and dynamic environment where you can help to develop industry-leading automotive technologies. We invest in our employees, providing them with the support and resources they need to succeed. As a member of our global team, you can expect exciting, varied responsibilities as well as a wide range of development prospects. Because we believe that your career path should be as unique as you are.
Group Summary:
Transforming mobility. Making automotive technology that is smarter, cleaner, safer and lighter. That's what we're passionate about at Magna Electronics, and we do it by creating world-class Electronic systems. We are a premier supplier for the global automotive industry with full capabilities in design, development, testing and manufacturing of complex Electronic systems. Our name stands for quality, environmental consciousness, and safety. Innovation is what drives us and we drive innovation. Dream big and create the future of mobility at Magna Electronics.

Job Responsibilities:

This role is not eligible for visa sponsorship. Candidates must have current and ongoing authorization to work in the United States.

The prototype buyer is responsible for supporting prototype and development procurement activities for the Core /Application projects within an assigned region. The role acts as a key interface between internal engineering teams, project stakeholders, and external suppliers to ensure timely placement of purchase orders, technical alignment, and smooth prototype execution.

Your Responsibilities

  • Procurement & PO Management
    • Track, create, and update Purchase Order (PO) status for prototype and development parts upon project and engineering confirmation.
    • Coordinate internally with finance, and project teams to ensure PO release aligns with project timelines.
  • Supplier Coordination
    • Act as a primary procurement contact for suppliers during RFQ and prototype phases.
    • Follow up with suppliers on pricing, lead times, delivery commitments, and production start readiness.
  • Technical & Commercial Alignment
    • Support engineering discussions by relaying procurement-relevant feedback related to materials, standard components and supplier feasibility.
    • Ensure supplier proposals (material changes, standard part deviations) are commercially reviewed, if applicable negotiated and routed to engineering for confirmation.
  • Prototype Program Support
    • Enable on-time prototype to build by aligning PO placement with agreed technical decisions (drawings, specifications, materials).
    • Monitor prototype quantities, supplier readiness, and agreed delivery dates to avoid schedule impacts.
  • Cross Functional Communication
    • Work closely with Engineering, Project Management, and other Buyers to close open action items related to RFQs, DFM feedback, and prototype execution.
    • Provide clear status updates to internal stakeholders when requested.
    • Daily interaction with Logistics , Operations , Controlling teams.

Who we are looking for

Education/Experience

  • Bachelor's degree in supply chain management, business or equivalent.
  • 1-3 years of purchasing or materials management experience.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills to communicate with internal and external contacts at all levels.
  • Knowledge of ERP systems (SAP) and Purchase to Pay Process and Tools (Coupa)
  • Knowledge of product development practices in the automotive field including knowledge of the application and delivery of advanced electronic systems into the automotive industry.
  • Skills in problem-solving, keen analytical abilities in a teamwork setting and knowledge of risk management.
  • Willingness to perform "hands-on" work.
  • Advanced knowledge of MS Office.
  • Comprehensive knowledge of English (verbal and written).
  • Able to work effectively in a global environment.
  • Able to represent technical topics internally and externally.
  • Able to maintain confidentiality.
  • Negotiation skills.
  • Ability to multitask by handling diverse assignments concurrently.
  • Self-starter who can work in a fast-paced and multifaceted environment.
  • Strong and effective decision-making skills.
Awareness, Unity, Empowerment:

At Magna, we believe that a diverse workforce is critical to our success. That's why we are proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We hire on the basis of experience and qualifications, and in consideration of job requirements, regardless of, in particular, color, ancestry, religion, gender, origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability or gender identity. Magna takes the privacy of your personal information seriously. We discourage you from sending applications via email or traditional mail to comply with GDPR requirements and your local Data Privacy Law.

AI-Assisted Screening Disclosure

As part of our commitment to a fair, consistent, and efficient recruitment process, we may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to assist in the initial screening of applications submitted through our Workday system. These tools help identify qualifications and experience that align with the role requirements. Please note that AI is used solely to support our recruiters. Final decisions are always made by the hiring manager and the hiring team. Importantly, no applicant data is shared externally through these AI tools. All information remains securely within our systems and is handled in accordance with our privacy and data protection policies.

Under conditions defined by applicable law, you may have the right to request an explanation of how AI is used to support decision-making.

If you have any questions or concerns about this process, feel free to contact our Talent Attraction team.

Worker Type:

Regular / Permanent

Group:

Magna Electronics