Senior Prototype Fabricator

MillerKnoll, Inc. in; Holland (MI); On-site; USD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

MillerKnoll is seeking a Senior Prototype Fabricator to independently build, modify, and coordinate prototypes and development assemblies. You will work from sketches and CAD models to produce high-quality parts while meeting schedules.

The role requires deep expertise in sheet metal forming, welding, and various machining processes, collaborating with Design and Development teams for manufacturability feedback.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of experience in a prototype fabrication, model shop, tool room, sheet metal fabrication, or product development environment.
• Demonstrated experience building one-off prototypes and low-volume development parts.
• Extensive hands-on experience in sheet metal fabrication and metalworking processes.
• Experience setting up and operating press brake equipment.
• Experience welding and fabricating steel, stainless steel, and aluminum components.

Responsibilities

• Independently fabricate prototype parts, assemblies, mock-ups, and test fixtures from engineering drawings, CAD models, sketches, and design concepts.
• Set up and operate fabrication equipment including press brakes, welders, mills, lathes, drill presses, and other model shop equipment.
• Perform sheet metal layout, forming, bending, fitting, cutting, finishing, and assembly operations.
• Perform MIG, TIG, spot welding, and other joining processes as required.
• Lead cost estimating exercises for components and large development builds.

Skills

Creo

NX

SolidWorks

CATIA

Education

10+ years prototype fabrication experience

Tools

Press brakes

Welders

Mills

Lathes

Drill presses

Job description

Our purpose is design for the good of humankind. It's the ideal we strive toward each day in everything we do. Being a part of MillerKnoll means being a part of something larger than your work team, or even your brand. We are redefining modern for the 21st century. And our success allows MillerKnoll to support causes that align with our values, so we can build a more sustainable, equitable, and beautiful future for everyone.

GENERAL PURPOSE

The Senior Prototype Fabricator will independently build, modify, and coordinate the fabrication of prototypes, models, mock-ups, and development assemblies to support product design, engineering evaluation, testing, and presentation requirements. You'll work from sketches, engineering drawings, and 3D CAD models to fabricate high-quality prototype components and assemblies while meeting project schedules and development objectives. Serve as a technical expert in prototype fabrication, sheet metal forming, welding, machining, and assembly processes. Collaborate closely with Design and Development teams to determine the most effective fabrication methods and provide feedback regarding manufacturability and prototype feasibility.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Independently fabricate prototype parts, assemblies, mock-ups, and test fixtures from engineering drawings, CAD models, sketches, and design concepts.
• Set up and operate fabrication equipment including press brakes, welders, mills, lathes, drill presses, and other model shop equipment.
• Perform sheet metal layout, forming, bending, fitting, cutting, finishing, and assembly operations.
• Perform MIG, TIG, spot welding, and other joining processes as required.
• Determine fabrication sequences, tooling requirements, and manufacturing methods with minimal supervision.
• Design and build fixtures, tooling, jigs, and fabrication aids to support prototype development.
• Collaborate with engineering and design teams to recommend practical fabrication solutions and manufacturability improvements.
• Lead cost estimating exercises for components and large development builds.
• Inspect fabricated parts and assemblies to verify dimensional and functional requirements.
• Troubleshoot prototype issues and implement timely corrective actions.
• Mentor and train apprentice and junior model makers.
• Take strong ownership of projects and provide feedback to customers and engineering teams on fabrication methods, challenges, and improvements.
• Maintain a safe, organized, and efficient work environment.
• Perform additional responsibilities as requested to achieve business objectives.

QUALIFICATIONS

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Education and Experience

• 10+ years of experience in a prototype fabrication, model shop, tool room, sheet metal fabrication, or product development environment.
• Demonstrated experience building one-off prototypes and low-volume development parts.
• Extensive hands‑on experience in sheet metal fabrication and metalworking processes.
• Experience setting up and operating press brake equipment.
• Experience welding and fabricating steel, stainless steel, and aluminum components.
• Proven ability to independently complete projects from concept through final assembly with minimal supervision.

CAD And Software Experience

• Working knowledge of CAD systems such as Creo, NX, SolidWorks, CATIA, or similar platforms.
• Ability to access, interpret, and utilize CAD data to support fabrication activities.
• Familiarity with CNC/CAM processes and manufacturing documentation.

Preferred Qualifications

• Journeyman Design Model Maker or equivalent trade experience.
• Experience in product development, prototype construction, or engineering development environments.
• Experience designing and building fixtures, tooling, and prototype support equipment.
• Familiarity with rapid prototyping, additive manufacturing, and rapid tooling processes.
• Experience working with a variety of materials including sheet metal, metals, plastics, wood, composites, and castings.

Skills and Abilities

• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, GD&T, blueprints, and assembly documentation.
• Ability to work directly from 3D CAD models and engineering data.
• Strong understanding of fabrication methods including:
• Sheet metal forming and bending
• Welding and joining
• Machining
• Assembly and fitting
• Fixture and tooling fabrication
• Experience selecting materials and fabrication methods to meet functional and aesthetic requirements.
• Ability to verify dimensional accuracy using standard inspection and measuring tools.
• Strong troubleshooting and problem‑solving skills in a fast‑paced development environment.
• Self‑starter capable of working independently with minimal direction.
• Strong craftsmanship and attention to detail.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills.
• Ability to prioritize multiple projects and meet aggressive development schedules.
• Demonstrated creativity in solving manufacturing and fabrication challenges.
• Strong sense of ownership and accountability.
• Ability to make sound decisions in situations with incomplete information.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Must be able to perform all essential functions of the position with or without accommodations.

Who We Hire?

Simply put, we hire qualified applicants representing a wide range of backgrounds and abilities.

MillerKnoll is comprised of people of all abilities, gender identities and expressions, ages, ethnicities, sexual orientations, veterans from every branch of military service, and more.

Here, you can bring your whole self to work.

We're committed to equal opportunity employment, including veterans and people with disabilities.

This organization participates in E‑Verify Employment Eligibility Verification. In general, MillerKnoll positions are closed within 45 days and are open for applications for a minimum of 5 days. We encourage our prospective candidates to submit their application(s) expediently so as not to miss out on our opportunities. We frequently post new opportunities and encourage prospective candidates to check back often for new postings.

MillerKnoll complies with applicable disability laws and makes reasonable accommodations for applicants and employees with disabilities. If reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and/or to receive other benefits and privileges of employment, please contact MillerKnoll Talent Acquisition at [e-mail] .