Senior Prototype Lead

Job Description

Job Description

Job Title: Senior Prototype Lead

Position Status: Exempt

Shift: Days 

GENERAL PURPOSE OF JOB:

The Senior Prototype Lead is responsible for leading advanced prototype fabrication and welding from concept through functional builds. This role works closely with Engineering and Project Management to support rapid product development, design validation, and iterative improvements. The Senior Prototype Lead serves as the technical lead for the prototype team, balancing hands-on fabrication with planning, problem-solving, mentoring, and coordination to ensure quality, safety, and timely delivery of prototype assemblies.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Prototype Fabrication & Welding

• Fabricate and weld steel sheet and steel tube prototypes using MIG, TIG, and other applicable welding processes.
• Interpret engineering drawings, CAD models, and specifications to build complex functional prototypes.
• Perform cutting, forming, fixturing, fitting, and finishing operations.
• Troubleshoot fit-up, manufacturability, and design issues; recommend practical solutions during prototype builds.
• Modify and rework prototypes based on engineering feedback while maintaining design intent and quality standards.

Senior Technical Leadership

• Lead and coordinate daily prototype build activities, establish priorities, and assign work based on project needs and team capabilities.
• Serve as the primary technical resource for complex fabrication, welding, fit-up, and prototype build challenges.
• Balance leadership and planning responsibilities with hands-on fabrication work.
• Mentor and train team members on advanced fabrication techniques, welding quality, drawing interpretation, and safe work practices.
• Review completed work and ensure prototype builds meet quality, safety, functional, and performance expectations.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Work closely with Engineering to provide design-for-manufacturing (DFM) feedback and identify opportunities to improve manufacturability.
• Partner with Project Managers to align prototype builds with project schedules, milestones, and changing priorities.
• Participate in design reviews and development meetings; communicate build status, risks, and technical challenges clearly and proactively.

Process & Shop Management

• Develop, improve, and maintain prototype build processes, work instructions, and consistent fabrication standards.
• Ensure proper use, care, and maintenance of fabrication and welding equipment; identify equipment or tooling needs.
• Maintain a safe, organized, and efficient prototype workspace and reinforce compliance with applicable safety requirements.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives and share lessons learned to improve prototype quality, efficiency, and repeatability.
• Help coordinate resources and workload to support multiple prototype projects and meet delivery commitments.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Provide day-to-day direction, coaching, and work coordination for prototype team members.
• Support training, skill development, and consistent adherence to quality and safety expectations.
• Communicate workload, performance, and resource concerns to the Operations Manager.

REASONING ABILITY:

• Ability to follow and interpret verbal and written instructions, engineering drawings, CAD models, and specifications.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality.
• Strong problem-solving, root-cause analysis, and troubleshooting skills.
• Ability to make sound technical decisions and communicate effectively with cross-functional teams.
• Able to stand, lift, and perform repetitive tasks for extended periods.

LANGUAGE SKILLS:

• Bilingual preferred; English or Spanish.

EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE:

• 7+ years of hands-on fabrication and welding experience in a manufacturing or prototype environment.
• Advanced experience welding steel sheet and steel tubing (MIG/TIG preferred).
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, CAD models, and technical specifications.
• Demonstrated experience leading, mentoring, or coordinating the work of a small team.
• Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and ability to work independently on complex builds.
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced, evolving product development environment.

NOTE: This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive. The employee may perform other related duties as negotiated to meet the ongoing needs of the organization.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

On-the-job time spent in the following physical activities will be:

Amount of Time

Physical Activity

None

Under 1/3

1/3 to 2/3

Over 2/3

Stand

None

Under 1/3

1/3 to 2/3

Over 2/3

Walk

x

Sit

x

Use hands to finger, handle or feel

x

Reach with hands and arms

x

Climb or balance

x

Talk or hear

x

Stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl

x

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

This job requires exposure to the following environmental conditions:

Amount of Time

Environmental Condition

None

Under 1/3

1/3 to 2/3

Over 2/3

Wet or humid conditions (non-weather)

x

x

Work near moving mechanical parts

x

Work in high, precarious places

x

Fumes or airborne particles

x

Toxic or caustic chemicals

x

Outdoor weather conditions

x

Extreme cold (non-weather)

x

Extreme heat (non-weather)

x

Risk of electrical shock

x

Work with explosives

x

WHAT WE OFFER:

• Competitive salary
• Comprehensive benefits package.
• Medical, Dental and Vision benefits effective the 1st of the month following hire date.
• 10 paid Holidays.
• Paid PTO, based on years of service.
• 401k Safe Harbor Plan.
• Health Savings Account.
• Company Paid Life insurance plan for $40K.
• Company Paid Short Term Disability insurance.
• Employee Assistance Program.
• Employee Discount Program through Life Mart.
• Onsite Gym.
• Opportunities for career growth and professional development.
• A supportive and collaborative work environment.

*Join us in driving innovation and achieving excellence. Apply today to become a part of our success story!

Morgan Li is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and applicants and to ensuring fair treatment regardless of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, military status, or any other status protected under applicable federal, state, or local law.

We believe that diversity drives innovation and strengthens our team. All employment decisions at Morgan Li are made based on qualifications, merit, and business needs.

If you require accommodations during the application or interview process, please let us know, and we will work to provide a solution that meets your needs.