Prototype Technician – Automotive/Defense

CrossFire Group; Auburn Hills (MI); On-site; USD 42,000 - 72,000; Full time

Job summary

CrossFire Group is seeking a hands-on Prototype Technician to support the build, modification, testing, and evaluation of prototype vehicles and components. You will fabricate parts, assemble prototype systems, and assist with testing in a fast-paced engineering environment.

The role requires 1–3 years of related experience, strong machining/welding skills, and the ability to read blueprints. Occasional travel and a focus on safety and quality are key.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• 1–3 years in technical fabrication or prototype builds.
• ASE Certification preferred.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, engineering drawings, and technical documents.
• Experience with light fabrication, machining, and welding.
• CDL preferred or willingness to obtain.
• Strong troubleshooting skills and ability to work in a fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities

• Assist with timely completion of prototype vehicle builds, rebuilds, and component modification projects.
• Fabricate parts from drawings using machining and fabrication equipment.
• Operate equipment such as drills, shears, brake presses, lathes, milling machines, CNC equipment, water jets, welding tools, and other metal-forming equipment.
• Assemble prototype vehicles, systems, and components using detailed drawings, specifications, and verbal instructions.
• Build, rebuild, modify, and update prototype and experimental vehicles.
• Machine, weld, rivet, fabricate, and install components and assemblies as required.
• Modify parts and components using both hand tools and machining equipment.
• Assist with instrumentation installation and vehicle preparation for testing and validation activities.
• Support component and vehicle testing, inspections, and evaluations.
• Diagnose automotive systems including powertrain, cooling, fuel, electrical, and HVAC systems.
• Assist in the training and development of new technicians.
• Maintain a safe, organized, and efficient work environment.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Skills

Blueprint reading

Troubleshooting

Mechanical aptitude

Teamwork

Safety conscious

Independent work

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Machining equipment

CNC equipment

Welding tools

Water jets

Brake presses

Lathe

Milling machines

Job description

Prototype Technician - Automotive/Defense Position Summary

We are seeking a hands-on Prototype Technician to support the build, modification, testing, and evaluation of prototype vehicles and components. This role is responsible for fabricating parts, assembling prototype systems, performing vehicle modifications, and supporting testing activities in a fast-paced engineering and manufacturing environment. The ideal candidate combines mechanical aptitude, fabrication skills, and automotive knowledge with a strong commitment to safety and quality.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist with the timely completion of prototype vehicle builds, rebuilds, and component modification projects.
• Fabricate parts from engineering drawings, blueprints, and layouts using a variety of machining and fabrication equipment.
• Operate equipment such as drills, shears, brake presses, lathes, milling machines, CNC equipment, water jets, welding tools, and other metal-forming equipment.
• Assemble prototype vehicles, systems, and components using detailed drawings, specifications, and verbal instructions.
• Build, rebuild, modify, and update prototype and experimental vehicles.
• Machine, weld, rivet, fabricate, and install components and assemblies as required.
• Modify parts and components using both hand tools and machining equipment.
• Assist with instrumentation installation and vehicle preparation for testing and validation activities.
• Support component and vehicle testing, inspections, and evaluations.
• Diagnose automotive systems including powertrain, cooling, fuel, electrical, and HVAC systems.
• Assist in the training and development of new technicians.
• Maintain a safe, organized, and efficient work environment.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Knowledge and Skills

• High school diploma or GED required.
• 1-3 years of related technical, fabrication, automotive, or prototype build experience required.
• ASE Certification preferred.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, engineering drawings, and technical documentation.
• Experience with light fabrication, machining, and welding techniques.
• Mechanical aptitude with the ability to assemble and modify complex systems and components.
• Basic computer skills required.
• Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) preferred or willingness to obtain.
• Strong troubleshooting and diagnostic skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to read computer screens, technical documents, blueprints, and reports with detail and accuracy.
• Ability to communicate effectively and hear verbal instructions in an industrial environment.
• Ability to use hands, tools, and equipment with a high degree of coordination and dexterity.
• Regular bending, stretching, reaching, twisting, and movement throughout the work area.
• Occasional climbing, kneeling, crouching, crawling, and working in confined spaces.
• Ability to occasionally lift and move up to 25 pounds with or without assistance.
• Ability to perform repetitive tasks and remain standing or sitting for extended periods as required.
• Work Environment: Split between manufacturing, fabrication, shop, garage, and office environments.
• Exposure to varying temperatures, loud noise, machinery, tools, and changing working conditions.
• Requires close collaboration with engineers, technicians, and support teams to meet project objectives.
• Ability to follow detailed instructions and standardized processes while maintaining quality and safety standards.
• Strong attention to detail and concentration required in a fast-paced prototype development environment.

Travel Requirements

• Up to 30% travel may be required to support prototype development, testing, validation, and related project activities.