Prototype Build Engineer

Location: Auburn Hills, MI
Work Arrangement: Onsite

Position Summary

We are seeking a Prototype Build Engineer to manage prototype build activities from vehicle specification through completed assembly. This role is responsible for developing and communicating build plans, coordinating purchasing and parts timing, and leading cross-functional efforts to ensure all program deliverables are met.

This is a team-based engineering role focused on build coordination, program execution, and issue resolution — not a hands-on assembly role.

The ideal candidate will have a strong mechanical engineering foundation, exposure to the automotive or aerospace industry, and experience in engineering design, manufacturing engineering, or process engineering. Recent graduates are encouraged to apply if they have relevant experience through internships, co-ops, capstone projects, or Formula SAE / Baja SAE.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage prototype build activities from design/prototype stage through completed assembly
• Develop and communicate build plans based on vehicle specifications
• Coordinate purchasing, parts development, and program timing to support build readiness
• Lead cross-functional teams to ensure program deliverables are completed on time
• Drive resolution of issues affecting:
  • Build quality
  • Engineering design
  • Manufacturing process
  • Program timing
• Work closely with engineering teams, suppliers, and other stakeholders
• Prepare and present status updates to management and project teams
• Support multiple programs in a fast-paced prototype environment

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science in one of the following:
  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Aerospace Engineering
  • Industrial Engineering
• Relevant engineering experience through internships, co-ops, academic projects, or up to 5 years of full-time experience
• Basic knowledge of the vehicle build process
• Strong mechanical engineering foundation with exposure to:
  • Engineering Design
  • Manufacturing Engineering
  • Process Engineering
• Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills
• Comfortable preparing presentations and presenting to different levels of the organization
• Strong self-starter with the ability to manage multiple programs and communicate status effectively
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering preferred
• 2–5 years of relevant full-time experience in the automotive or aerospace industry preferred
• For entry-level candidates, experience through any of the following is strongly valued:
  • Automotive internship
  • Co-op
  • Formula SAE / Baja SAE
  • Senior design / capstone project
• Experience supporting:
  • Prototype builds
  • Pilot builds
  • Pre-production builds
  • Manufacturing or process improvement activities
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced engineering environment
• Excellent cross-functional collaboration skills
• Demonstrated initiative, ownership, and willingness to learn
• Ability to balance multiple priorities while meeting program timing requirements