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Rapid Prototype Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... with rapid prototyping technologies (3D printing, CNC machining, laser cutting, etc.) a plus. · Strong problem-solving skills with an eye for detail. · Effective communication and teamwork ...

Intro The Data Manager supports a rapid-prototype software and data integration effort, coordinating assessment, design, implementation, and testing activities in an operational environment. This ...

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Rapid Prototyping: Execute quick-turn jobs on both advanced CNC equipment and conventional milling, turning, and grinding tools, to support urgent R&D, Product Development and Engineering needs.

Sr. Prototype Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$75K - $90K/yr

Role Overview: We're seeking a hands-on Sr. Prototype Engineer to support the development, testing ... Thrive in a startup environment with rapid innovation. * Stability: Enjoy startup benefits with a ...

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Rapid Prototype information

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$15

$26

$50

How much do rapid prototype jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for rapid prototype in the United States is $26.11, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.19 and $27.64 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Rapid Prototype vs Product Designer?

AspectRapid PrototypeProduct Designer
CredentialsSkills in CAD, 3D modeling, rapid prototyping toolsDesign degree, UX/UI skills, user research experience
Work EnvironmentDesign labs, manufacturing facilities, workshopsOffice, collaborative teams, user testing environments
Industry UsageProduct development, engineering, manufacturingTech, consumer products, digital platforms
Primary FocusCreating quick, functional prototypes for testingDesigning user-centered products and interfaces

While Rapid Prototypes focus on quickly creating tangible models for testing ideas, Product Designers concentrate on developing user-centered digital or physical products with an emphasis on aesthetics and usability. Both roles are essential in product development but serve different stages and aspects of the process.

What is a rapid prototyping specialist?

A rapid prototyping specialist is a professional who designs and develops quick, functional models of products or components to test concepts and gather feedback. They often use tools like 3D printing, CAD software, and CNC machining, and may work closely with engineers and designers to improve product development processes.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in rapid prototyping roles, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in rapid prototyping often face tight deadlines and evolving project requirements, which can make it challenging to balance speed with quality. Additionally, they must frequently collaborate with cross-functional teams, such as designers and engineers, to quickly iterate and incorporate feedback. Staying adaptable, maintaining clear communication, and using agile development methods can help address these challenges. Emphasizing documentation and version control also ensures that progress is tracked and lessons are learned from each iteration.

Does rapid prototyping work?

Rapid prototyping is an effective process used by professionals to quickly create models or samples of products, allowing for early testing and iteration. It often involves tools like 3D printing or CAD software and helps identify design issues before full-scale production. When properly applied, it can significantly reduce development time and costs.

What is the role of rapid prototyping?

A rapid prototype role involves creating quick, functional models of products or systems to test concepts, identify design flaws, and refine ideas efficiently. It requires skills in CAD software, 3D printing, or other prototyping tools, and often involves collaboration with design and engineering teams to improve development processes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Rapid Prototyping Engineer, and why are they important?

To excel as a Rapid Prototyping Engineer, you need expertise in CAD design, 3D modeling, and a solid engineering or technical background. Familiarity with rapid prototyping tools such as 3D printers, CNC machines, and relevant software like SolidWorks or AutoCAD, as well as knowledge of manufacturing processes, is crucial. Creativity, problem-solving, and effective communication are vital soft skills for quickly iterating ideas and collaborating with cross-functional teams. These competencies ensure efficient development of prototypes, facilitate innovation, and streamline the transition from concept to product.

What is a prototype job?

A prototype job involves creating early models or samples of a product, often in fields like engineering, design, or manufacturing. The role requires skills in CAD software, 3D printing, or other prototyping tools, and typically focuses on testing and refining concepts before mass production.

What is a Rapid Prototype?

A rapid prototype is a preliminary version of a product or system created quickly to visualize, test, and iterate ideas before full-scale development. This process uses techniques such as 3D printing, computer-aided design (CAD), or software tools to produce models or mock-ups. Rapid prototyping allows designers, engineers, and stakeholders to evaluate functionality, design, and user experience early in the development cycle, saving time and reducing costs by identifying issues and improvements early on. It is widely used in industries like manufacturing, software development, and product design.
More about Rapid Prototype jobs
What cities are hiring for Rapid Prototype jobs? Cities with the most Rapid Prototype job openings:
What states have the most Rapid Prototype jobs? States with the most job openings for Rapid Prototype jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Rapid Prototype jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Rapid Prototype jobs are:
Infographic showing various Rapid Prototype job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Locum Tenens, 4% As Needed, 91% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,312 per year, or $26.1 per hour.
Prototype Technician

Prototype Technician

Legrand North America

Kenosha, WI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

At a Glance

Legrand has an exciting opportunity for a Prototype Technician to join the Kenall Team in Kenosha, WI.

The successful candidate will support the development of products from the initial concept through production launch by creating concept prototypes, providing manufacturability feedback, and creating jigs and tools for production.

The Prototype Technician will be responsible for building, assembling, testing, and refining prototypes of new products in support of the engineering and product development teams. This role requires strong hands-on technical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to collaborate with engineers and designers to bring concepts to life.

Responsibilities:

· Manage the prototype list and work with all parties on prioritization

· Execute the development of prototypes for the engineering department and provide feedback on manufacturability

· Partner with Quality, Industrial Engineering and Manufacturing Engineering to design and fabricate jigs, tools, and fixturing to support engineering changes and products in development

· Partner with Operations and Planning to schedule prototyping activities to limit impact on production

· Fabricate, assemble, and modify prototype parts, components, and systems using hand tools, power tools, and precision equipment.

· Read and interpret engineering drawings, CAD models, and schematics.

· Operate fabrication equipment such as 3D printers, CNC machines, laser cutters, and soldering equipment

· Work closely with design and engineering teams to identify prototype improvements and troubleshoot issues.

· Perform functional and durability testing on prototypes and document results.

· Maintain an organized and safe prototype lab, ensuring all tools, equipment, and materials are available and in good working condition.

· Record build processes, material usage, and modifications for accurate documentation.

· Support pilot builds and pre-production runs.

· Provide feedback on manufacturability, assembly processes, and design improvements.

· Follow safety, quality, and company compliance standards.


Qualifications:

· Associate degree, technical diploma, or equivalent hands-on experience in mechanical, electrical, or manufacturing technology.

· 2+ years of experience in prototype assembly, fabrication, or related technical role.

· Strong mechanical and/or electrical assembly skills.

· Proficiency with hand tools, measurement instruments, and fabrication equipment.

· Ability to read engineering drawings, schematics, and CAD outputs.

· Familiarity with rapid prototyping technologies (3D printing, CNC machining, laser cutting, etc.) a plus.

· Strong problem-solving skills with an eye for detail.

· Effective communication and teamwork abilities.

· Willingness to adapt to fast-paced and evolving project requirements.

Competencies:

· Ability to work with others in a team environment

· Ability to work autonomously on manufacturing equipment

· Self-motivated and has a drive to continuously improve

· Detail-oriented, with a desire to “roll up your sleeves” to help your team get the job done

· Ability to adapt to changes in type of work and schedule

· Desire to learn new processes and skills

· Ability to communicate and present findings to teams in English, both written and orally

· Creative problem solver that can develop solutions and provide alternatives if needed

· Safety mindset

· Customer-focused with a sense of urgency


About Legrand

Legrand is the global specialist in electrical and digital building infrastructures. Our comprehensive offering of solutions for residential, commercial, and data center markets makes us a benchmark for customers worldwide. We harness technological and societal trends with lasting impacts on buildings with the purpose of improving life by transforming the spaces where people live, work, and meet with electrical and digital infrastructures and connected solutions that are simple, innovative, and sustainable. Legrand is a global, publicly traded company listed on the Euronext (Legrand SA EPA: LR). For more information, visit www.legrandgroup.com/en

About Legrand North and Central America

Legrand, North & Central America (LNCA) is a leader in the AV, Lighting & Controls, Electrical, and Data Center markets. LNCA offers comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, as well as distinctive benefits like a high employer 401K match, paid time off (PTO) and holiday pay, short-term and long-term disability benefit plans, above-benchmark paid maternity and parental leave, bonus opportunities in accordance with the Company’s incentive plans, paid time off to volunteer, and an active/growing Employee Resource Group network. For more information, visit legrand.us 

About Legrand’s Lighting Sector

Legrand’s Lighting Sector consists of five lighting brands; Pinnacle, Finelite, Focal Point, and OCL which focus on architectural, decorative, and downlighting and Kenall which focuses on lighting for demanding environments.  We employ a talented group of employees that love lighting to design and manufacture high performance, energy efficient LED lighting solutions for applications in commercial, educational, healthcare, as well as challenging environments such as tunnels and correctional facilities.  With an eye toward sustainable design, our focus is on specification-oriented products and solutions that meet the functional needs of spaces while working in harmony with the designer’s vision for those spaces. We work with architects, engineers, and contractors to supply lighting built specifically for their client’s projects.   

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Equal Opportunity Employer