Prototype Build Engineer
The Prototype Build Engineer at Confidential Client is responsible for managing prototype vehicle build activities, including developing build plans, coordinating purchasing, and ensuring program deliverables are met. This role leads multiple teams to resolve issues affecting build quality, design, manufacturing, and timing, providing hands-on experience in automotive or aerospace prototype builds.
About Careertakes
👉 Important disclosure: Careertakes is a third-party recruiting platform supporting this hiring process. If selected, you will be employed directly by our client, Engineering.
Applicants for this role may also receive access to additional matched opportunities through the Careertakes platform.
Role overview
Confidential Client (via Careertakes) is seeking a Prototype Build Engineer in Auburn Hills, MI. This hands-on engineering role manages prototype vehicle build activities from planning through delivery, coordinating cross-functional teams to meet build quality, schedule, and engineering objectives.
What you’ll do
- Develop and communicate prototype build plans that align with vehicle specifications and program timelines.
- Coordinate purchasing, parts delivery, and vendor interactions to support prototype builds.
- Track development progress, monitor program timing for parts, and escalate schedule risks.
- Lead and coordinate multiple teams (engineering, manufacturing, suppliers, technicians) to ensure program deliverables are met.
- Identify and drive resolution for issues affecting build quality, engineering design, manufacturing processes, or timing.
- Prepare status updates and present program progress to management and stakeholders.
- Maintain accurate build documentation and change records during prototype cycles.
Minimum qualifications
- Bachelor of Science in Mechanical, Aerospace, or Industrial Engineering.
- Strong mechanical engineering fundamentals with exposure to:
- Engineering design
- Manufacturing engineering
- Process engineering
- Use of success factors / program-tracking tools
- Basic knowledge of vehicle build processes.
- Proficient with Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint) and comfortable preparing presentations.
- Self-starter able to manage multiple programs and communicate status to management.
- Eligible to work in the U.S.; able to work on-site in Auburn Hills, MI as required.
Preferred qualifications
- Mechanical Engineering degree preferred.
- 2–5 years relevant experience in automotive or aerospace prototype builds, manufacturing, or process engineering.
- Formula SAE experience, automotive internships, capstone projects, or hands-on lab/build experience — especially for early-career candidates.
- Experience coordinating purchasing and supplier timelines for prototype programs.
Work type & compensation
- Employment type: Contract / Full-time (per the client’s needs).
- Location: Auburn Hills, MI (on-site required).
- Estimated pay (from source data): $116,679 per year — this is an estimate and may vary by experience, qualifications, and local market; some roles may include bonuses or other incentives.
Why apply via Careertakes
- Careertakes partners with qualified employers to present clear role expectations and streamline application matching.
- Applicants may gain access to additional matched roles across our engineering client network.
- Third-party screeners may be used to surface the best matches; final hiring decisions are always made by the client.
About the client
Confidential Client operates in the Engineering industry and is hiring for prototype development and vehicle build capability. The team values hands-on technical skill, cross-functional collaboration, and timely execution of prototype programs.
Equal Opportunity & Hiring Transparency
Careertakes and our client are Equal Opportunity Employers committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We prohibit discrimination or harassment of any kind. To support a fair and efficient hiring process, AI tools may be used to assist with application review or resume screening. These tools do not replace human decision-making. Final hiring decisions are made by people.
If you have questions about how your data is used, please contact us directly.
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