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Prototyping Jobs in Missouri (NOW HIRING)

Brightli

Principal AI Engineer

Springfield, MO · On-site

You will create natural language-to-SQL solutions, design semantic data models, build prototypes that validate high-value use cases, and guide those prototypes into production. As the senior AI ...

Emerson

Mechanical Engineer/Senior - Design

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

$84K - $116K/yr

Our teams design 3D models, build and evaluate prototypes, and leverage our inhouse rapid prototyping and certified UL lab capabilities. Emerson Tool Company proudly manufactures RIDGID Wet/Dry Vacs ...

Nerdy

AI Product Engineer

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

This role is perfect for builders who thrive at the intersection of discovery, design, rapid prototyping, and shipping real customer-facing features. You'll own problems end-to-end -- from ...

Motorola

Design Technologist - 2026 Coop

Louisiana, MO · Remote

$30 - $36/hr

High-Fidelity Prototyping: Develop functional, data-driven prototypes that go far beyond Figma. You will build tools that prove a concept's technical viability using modern web frameworks. * AI ...

ClifyX

Salesforce CPQ Functional Architect

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

$67 - $83/hr

... prototypes, building proof of concepts, and preparing architecture roadmaps. Typical Daily Snapshot: The Quote to Cash - CPQ CLM Project Manager/Functional Architect will be responsible for the ...

Brightli

Principal AI Engineer

Springfield, MO

This hands-on role develops natural language-to-SQL solutions, semantic data models, and prototype applications that enable governed, conversational access to enterprise data, and guides their ...

Jobgether

A strong focus will be placed on experimentation, rapid prototyping, and continuous iteration. This is a high-impact opportunity to influence both product direction and the future of AI-native UX. ...

FPC

Be Seen First

Sales Representative

Maryland Heights, MO · On-site

FPC fabricates and distributes custom and standard foam products, offering capabilities including CNC routing, die cutting, laminating, prototyping, custom fabrication, and product testing. Key ...

Jobgether

$119K - $147K/yr

Build interactive prototypes to validate ideas, reduce uncertainty, and accelerate product development. * Drive the evolution of design systems, ensuring consistency, scalability, and high-quality ...

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All JobsPrototyping JobsPrototyping Jobs in Missouri

Prototyping information

See Missouri salary details

$13

$25

$39

How much do prototyping jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for prototyping in Missouri is $25.19, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.86 and $29.09 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

What jobs make $10,000 a month without a degree?

Prototyping roles in industries like software development, product design, or engineering can sometimes pay $10,000 or more monthly, especially for experienced professionals or freelancers with specialized skills in CAD, 3D modeling, or UX/UI design. High-paying opportunities often require strong portfolios, technical proficiency, and industry experience rather than formal degrees.

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

In the field of prototyping, high-paying roles such as senior product designers, lead engineers, or executive positions in technology companies can reach or exceed $500,000 annually, especially with bonuses and stock options. These roles typically require extensive experience, advanced technical skills, and often involve leadership responsibilities or specialized expertise in areas like hardware or software development.

What jobs make $1,000,000 a year?

In the field of prototyping, highly experienced product designers, lead engineers, or entrepreneurs involved in successful startups can earn over $1 million annually through salaries, bonuses, and equity. Such roles often require advanced skills, extensive industry experience, and involvement in high-growth or innovative projects.

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 is a prototype job?

A prototype job involves creating early models or samples of products, designs, or systems to test concepts and functionality. Professionals in this role often use tools like CAD software or 3D printers and work closely with designers and engineers to refine ideas before mass production.
What are the most commonly searched types of Prototyping jobs in Missouri? The most popular types of Prototyping jobs in Missouri are:
What are popular job titles related to Prototyping jobs in Missouri? For Prototyping jobs in Missouri, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Prototyping jobs in Missouri look for? The top searched job categories for Prototyping jobs in Missouri are:
What cities in Missouri are hiring for Prototyping jobs? Cities in Missouri with the most Prototyping job openings:
Prototyping jobs near you
Infographic showing various Prototyping job openings in Missouri as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 80% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,404 per year, or $25.2 per hour.
Sr. Engineering Manager - Design

Sr. Engineering Manager - Design

American Plastics, LLC

Jefferson City, MO

Other

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Description

American Plastics, headquartered in St. Louis, Missouri, is a leading designer and manufacturer of innovative plastic-injection molded products for the household & garage storage and commercial cleaning end-markets.


We are seeking a skilled Sr. Design Engineer specializing in plastics to join our team at our Innovation Center, in Jefferson City, MO. This position will lead a team of  design engineers  and  will be responsible for designing and developing plastic components and products, ensuring functionality, manufacturability, and cost-effectiveness. The role involves collaborating with cross-functional teams, utilizing CAD software, and staying updated on industry trends and technologies. This position will report to the Vice President of Engineering.


Product Design: Conceptualize, design, and develop plastic components and products according to project requirements, considering factors such as functionality, aesthetics, manufacturability, and cost-effectiveness.


CAD Modeling: Utilize CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, CATIA) to create detailed 3D models and 2D drawings of plastic parts and assemblies.


Prototyping: Oversee the prototyping process, including selecting appropriate materials, collaborating with prototype technicians, and validating designs for fit, form, and function.


Material Selection: Evaluate and select suitable plastic materials based on performance requirements, environmental factors, and cost considerations.


Design Optimization: Continuously improve designs for efficiency, performance, and cost reduction through analysis, simulation, and testing.


Manufacturability: Collaborate with manufacturing teams to ensure designs are optimized for production processes such as injection molding, extrusion, and thermoforming.


Quality Assurance: Work closely with quality control teams to establish and implement quality standards for plastic components and products, ensuring compliance with industry regulations.


Documentation: Prepare and maintain comprehensive design documentation, including technical drawings, specifications, and design change records.


Cross-functional Collaboration: Collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams including product management, manufacturing, quality assurance, and procurement to achieve project goals and deadlines.


Research and Innovation: Stay updated on industry trends, emerging technologies, and best practices in plastic design, and incorporate innovative solutions into product development processes.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in mechanical or plastics Engineering

Excellent at leading and developing a team

Experience of hands-on injection molding experience a plus.

7 + Years experience with Product Design of plastic injection molded products

SolidWorks knowledge.

Experience with prototyping techniques and rapid iteration processes.

Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail.

Effective communication and collaboration skills with the ability to work in cross-functional teams.

Familiarity with design for manufacturability (DFM) and design for assembly (DFA) principles.

Ability to prioritize tasks and manage multiple projects simultaneously.

Strong communication skills.



If you are interested in joining the American Plastics team and want to work in a fast-paced, progressive environment, we want to hear from you. We offer a competitive salary, full benefit package including medical/dental, 401k, and paid vacation.


Apply