Prototype Machine Shop Technician

MAT Holdings, Inc.; Farmington Hills (MI); On-site; USD 55,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

MAT Holdings, Inc. seeks a prototype technician in Farmington Hills, MI, to support Ride Control, LLC suspension product prototyping.

The role involves fabricating prototype samples, developing valve systems, and ensuring parts meet design specifications through machining and inspection. The successful candidate will read blueprints, operate standard and advanced machine tools, weld assemblies, and participate in documentation and customer support activities.

Qualifications

• Read engineering drawings and blueprints; interpret tolerances and finishes.
• Proficiency with precision measuring tools and instruments.
• Strong fabrication skills including MIG/TIG welding and operation of lathes, milling machines, and related equipment.
• Team player with initiative, capable of independent work and effective communication at all levels.
• Commitment to safety and to delivering world‑class customer service.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate and perform prototype builds from requests to reports.
• Read and interpret blueprints, geometric tolerances, and finishes during machining/fabrication.
• Set up, adjust, and operate machine tools (lathes, milling machines, band saws, drill presses, hydraulic presses, grinders).
• Weld, assemble, and disassemble prototype units from design documentation and valve codes.
• Measure, examine, and test completed units to detect defects and ensure conformance using precision instruments.
• Maintain standard prototype build times.
• Maintain a safe, clean, hazard‑free workplace and comply with regulations.
• Manage valve component stock, safety stock, and incoming inspections.
• Capture data to analyze and recommend improvements.

Skills

Machining principles

Reading blueprints

Precision measuring

Team collaboration

Safety focus

Education

High School Diploma

Associate degree / certificate

Tools

MIG welding

TIG welding

Lathes

Milling machines

Band saws

Drill presses

Hydraulic presses

grinders

Job description

Job Description

This position is a leading/supporting role in the prototyping of Ride Control, LLC suspension products. The individual will assist with all prototyping aspects of design and engineering of the product, including construction, valving development, technical specifications, and design standards. The role will fabricate and modify prototype samples and industrial/machine tools, applying knowledge of mechanics, shop mathematics, metal properties, layout, and machining procedures. The engineer will operate and troubleshoot all standard and specialized equipment to produce superior parts, and provide engineering and technical support to customers and internal departments, application engineering activities and documentation.

Responsibilities

• Complete Prototype Requests
  • Coordinate and perform prototype builds from requests to reports
  • Read and interpret blueprints, geometric tolerances, and finishes during machining/fabrication
  • Set up, adjust, and operate basic and advanced machine tools (lathes, milling machines, band saws, drill presses, hydraulic presses, grinders)
  • Weld, assemble, and disassemble prototype units from design documentation and valve codes
  • Measure, examine, and test completed units to detect defects and ensure conformance using precision instruments (micrometers, calipers, height gauges)
  • Set and maintain standard prototype build times
• Prototype Organization
  • Maintain a safe, clean, and hazard‑free workplace in compliance with company and federal regulations
  • Perform regular maintenance, inspection, and replacement of consumables on all equipment
  • Manage valve component stock, safety stock, and incoming inspections
  • Capture statistical data to analyze and recommend improvements
  • Place prototype orders for machine shop materials, consumables, and components

Qualifications

• Thorough knowledge of machining principles and ability to read engineering drawings and blueprints
• Proficiency with precision measuring tools and instruments
• Strong fabrication skills (MIG/TIG welding, seam welders, lathes, milling machines, band saws, drill presses, hydraulic presses, grinders, painting)
• Team player who takes initiative, works independently, and communicates effectively at all levels
• Commitment to world‑class customer service and exceeding expectations
• Sound decision‑making, highly motivated, well‑organized
• Strong focus on safety

Education / Experience

• High School Diploma or equivalent (required). Associate’s degree or Certificate preferred.
• Welding certification (AWS) preferred.
• Hands‑on vehicle development and/or testing experience.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
• Knowledge or background in chassis systems, suspensions, and components.

Desired Experience

• 5–10 years automotive fabrication with prototyping & development work.
• Experience in a shop environment (drill press, band saw, sander, chop saw, arbor press, etc.).
• Ability to interpret prints and GD&T training.
• Experience working in an IAFT 16949 certified organization.
• Automotive enthusiast.

All applicant information will remain confidential in accordance with EEO guidelines.