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Prototyping Jobs in Rhode Island (NOW HIRING)

Develop prototypes on STOLL flat knitting machines (CMS series preferred). * Translate product concepts into functional knit designs. * Optimize knit structures for fit, durability, and ...

Responsibilities · Manage and oversee technology refresh, prototyping, and system development programs supporting NUWC Code 70 ranges, facilities, and undersea warfare systems. · Plan, coordinate ...

Responsibilities • Manage and oversee technology refresh, prototyping, and system development programs supporting NUWC Code 70 ranges, facilities, and undersea warfare systems. • Plan, coordinate ...

Responsibilities Manage and oversee technology refresh, prototyping, and system development programs supporting NUWC Code 70 ranges, facilities, and undersea warfare systems. Plan, coordinate, and ...

Seaglider Test Operator

North Kingstown, RI · On-site

$17.75 - $21.75/hr

Ensure safe execution of on-water sea trials and demonstrations of prototype and production Seagliders across all operators * Operate the vehicle for Seaglider envelope expansion and first flight ...

Replit Tutor

Providence, RI · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Ability to explain browser-based development workflows, AI-assisted code generation, and rapid prototyping capabilities while preparing students for collaborative coding and web application ...

Seaglider Test Operator

North Kingstown, RI · On-site

$17.75 - $21.75/hr

Ensure safe execution of on-water sea trials and demonstrations of prototype and production Seagliders across all operators * Operate the vehicle for Seaglider envelope expansion and first flight ...

Manage and oversee technology refresh, prototyping, and system development programs supporting NUWC Code 70 ranges, facilities, and undersea warfare systems. * Plan, coordinate, and execute ...

Recommend changes in test procedures and test specifications to improve performance and functional testing of production or prototype components. Set up standard test apparatus or devises test ...

Our Advanced SystemsIntegration task area specializes in design and development of prototype andproduction systems for installation on US Navy vessels. System designs include shipboardalterations and ...

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Prototyping information

See Rhode Island salary details

$14

$26

$40

How much do prototyping jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for prototyping in Rhode Island is $26.30, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.72 and $30.38 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 popular job titles related to Prototyping jobs in Rhode Island? For Prototyping jobs in Rhode Island, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Prototyping job openings in Rhode Island as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,711 per year, or $26.3 per hour.

Other

Posted 28 days ago


Job description

Employment Type: Regular Full-Time

Shift: 1st Shift

Work Status: On-site

Position Summary: 

Supports the engineering team in all phases of research and development, new product development, and sustained engineering.  Prototypes, builds and tests new and existing products, as well as test fixtures used in product testing and validation.  Installs, repairs, assembles, tests and maintains in good operating condition all kinds of electronic equipment or products by studying diagrams and replacing components as required.

Measures of success:

  • Accurately build prototypes
  • Accurately execute validation testing
  • Precisely diagnose and write report for field returns

Responsibilities:

Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

Tests products

  • Performs preliminary/certified regulatory testing (e.g., UL, CE, FCC, ETL, etc.)
  • Conducts performance, functionality, and life testing on product designs
  • Reviews, prepares, and presents collected data

Builds and tests prototype

  • Populates/solders circuit boards with all required components
  • Performs preliminary testing on prototype design before delivery to engineer
  • Responsible for building/assembling electro-mechanical assemblies and sub-assemblies

Operates stereolithography (SLA) machine

  • Manages requests for rapid prototype parts and orders materials
  • Ensures machine performance by scheduling repair and maintenance
  • Prepares part builds as well as post processing and delivering of final product

Qualifications

Required:

  • Trade School degree
  • Electronics Technician Certificate with a strong background in electronics
  • Experience with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel)
  • Proficient in technical writing
  • Travel required to conferences, customer / rep sites, etc.

Preferred:

  • Associate degree in an electronics related field
  • 1+ years of experience in circuit theory and electronics to debug and repair electronic designs, using test equipment to measure and record electronic parameters in a circuit, oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, multimeters, power supplies and data acquisition systems, building and soldering printed circuit boards
  • Experience with test software (LabView, BenchVue)

Work Environment

This position will work primarily in a laboratory environment. At times, there may be exposure to warehouse or lab settings where safety equipment or personal protective gear is required.

Onsite - This position reports into the site every day.

This position has no direct reports.