1

Prototyping Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

* Station leader for current and future major model builds - this includes creating detailed operating plans, training materials and teaching/leading a team of 4~6 production T/Ms and ensuring quality.

Prototype Engineering Technician The Prototype Engineering Technician plays a key role in building and supporting next-generation zero-emission refrigerated trailer systems in a hands-on R&D ...

New

Overtime will be available As a Prototype Automotive Mechanic, you will play a key role in building and maintaining the vehicles of tomorrow. Working in a prototype environment, you'll perform ...

Automotive Mechanic

Allen Park, MI · On-site

$23 - $30/hr

Overtime will be available As a Prototype Automotive Mechanic, you will play a key role in building and maintaining the vehicles of tomorrow. Working in a prototype environment, you'll perform ...

Stamping/Press Prototype Press Operator

Warren, MI · On-site

$15.50 - $20.25/hr

REQUIRED SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE & ABILITIES 1. Familiar with Automotive Prototype Die Development, GD&T and blue print reading. 2. Must be able to operate most of the following pieces of machinery: 3. 90 ...

Ensure that prototypes are built within requirements and time frame accepted * Ensure prototype build with product and process side meet defined design * Maintains correct calibration and maintenance ...

Model Maker I

Ada, MI · On-site

$30.42 - $37.58/hr

Rapid Prototyping / Research & Development (4001) Salary Range: $30.42/hr - $37.58/hr plus bonus Location: Ada, MI (Onsite) What we're looking for: Are you ready to get your hands dirty (in the best ...

Product Design Engineer

Monroe, MI

$119K - $143K/yr

Design, develop and improve new or existing products and directs the building and testing of prototypes. Does not have direct supervisory responsibility, but directs the work of a CAD Designer and ...

Model Maker I

Ada, MI · On-site

$30.42 - $37.58/hr

Rapid Prototyping / Research & Development (4001) Salary Range: $30.42/hr - $37.58/hr plus bonus Location: Ada, MI (Onsite) What we're looking for: Are you ready to get your hands dirty (in the best ...

Ensure that prototypes are built within requirements and time frame accepted * Ensure prototype build with product and process side meet defined design * Maintains correct calibration and maintenance ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Prototyping information

See Michigan salary details

$12

$23

$36

How much do prototyping jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 22, 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 Technician - Electrical- Contract C/M

Prototype Technician - Electrical- Contract C/M

AM General

Auburn Hills, MI

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago


AM General rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

INTRODUCTION TO AM GENERAL

AM General develops and builds specialized ground vehicle systems that get the US Armed Services and our allies to and from their mission safely. Our innovative spirit delivers advanced, rugged, resilient, and dependable mobility solutions. We are one team dedicated to producing the best products for our customers. We have a collective understanding that at AM General our purpose is to serve those who serve to protect us.

We R.I.D.E. with Sgt. Smith!  
We are Responsive       We have Integrity            We are Dynamic              We exhibit Excellence

PRINCIPLE DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Assist in the timely completion of in-house experimental vehicle builds, rebuild and component modification projects
  • May fabricate parts from detailed prints or layouts supplied by Design Engineering.
  • Assemble prototype vehicles and components using detailed layout drawings/verbal instructions
  • Assemble, build, rebuild and modify experimental and/or prototype vehicles
  • Modify and update components and parts by machine or hand
  • Assist in instrumentation installation and vehicle preparation for component and/or vehicle compliance testing
  • Rivet weld, machine, and assemble or reassemble parts and components. Install parts and components on vehicle
  • Support testing and evaluate various parts or components
  • Build wiring harness from prints
  • Bench top and in vehicle diagnostics of harnesses and electrical systems
  • Assist in training new mechanics
  • Provide diagnostics for various automotive systems such as power train, cooling, fuel, electrical and HVAC systems
  • Other duties as assigned

KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS

  • A high school diploma or GED equivalent is required
  • 1-3 year of related technical experience is required
  • ASE Certification preferred
  • Ability to read blueprints
  • Possess light fabrication capabilities and welding skills
  • Familiarity with: Wiring harness build systems, harness testers, meters, cutters, strippers, crimpers, diagnostic tools.
  • Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) desired, or willingness to obtain
  • Basic PC skills required

PHYSICAL EFFORT

  • Sight: must be able to regularly read computer screen, reports, and various documents with detail and clarity to accomplish work tasks in a safe and efficient manner, including regular use of adequate close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, and ability to adjust focus
  • Hearing: must be able to regularly hear well enough to communicate
  • Hand-Eye Coordination: must be able to regularly coordinate one’s eyes with one’s fingers, wrists, or arms to move, carry, or manipulate objects or to perform other job-related tasks
  • Manual Dexterity: must be able to regularly make quick, accurate, skillful, and coordinated movement with hands and arms to grasp, place, move, or use objects such as phone, computer, and other office equipment, tools, or controls
  • Agility: must be able to regularly bend, stretch, twist, or reach out with the body, arms, or legs to perform job tasks, including the ability to move throughout all areas of the facility, Company’s property surrounding facility, or additional work areas
  • Climbing / Kneeling: must be able to occasionally climb, kneel, bend over, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl, with balance
  • Lifting: must be able to occasionally lift up to 25 pounds with or without assistance
  • Physical Strength: must be able to occasionally lift, push, pull, or carry objects using hands, arms, back, abdominal muscles, shoulders, legs, or a combination of these muscle groups
  • Stamina: must be able to occasionally exert oneself physically over long periods of time, including performing repetitive or strenuous tasks as well as standing and sitting for long periods

WORKING CONDITIONS

  • Physical Location: This position operates between an office and manufacturing plant environment and is often assigned to a specific shift or hours. The Employee must be able to perform job functions in an environment with varying difficult work conditions such as extreme cold, heat, inclement weather, at heights, and/or while exposed to constant/intermittent loud noises
  • Teamwork: This position will work with others to ensure efficiency in the workplace
  • Listening Skills: This position will need to understand how to use machinery properly and safely to prevent accidents and ensure all tasks are completed accurately
  • Ability to follow instructions: Managers assign tasks and responsibilities, which vary; this position should be able to follow instructions competently
  • Methodical approach: Production lines follow a set process, so this position needs a methodical approach to ensure all tasks are completed in the correct order for a smooth-running production line
  • Concentration: This position may perform the same or similar tasks repeatedly, so a strong level of concentration when carrying out these tasks is important for quality control purposes. This role is often fast paced, so being able to maintain focus at all times is important

TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS

Up to 30% travel may be required - travel to support prototype activities may be needed from time to time


What AM General employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom