Senior Prototype Development Engineer (R&D)

Role & responsibilities

Prototype Development (Core)

• Lead end-to-end in-house prototype development (Alpha & Beta stages) for R&D programs.
• Translate conceptual designs into functional prototypes using practical manufacturing and machining knowledge.
• Work closely with design engineers to optimize manufacturability and prototype feasibility.
• Guide and supervise technicians during machining, fabrication, assembly, and testing activities.

Manufacturing & Machining Expertise

• Operate and instruct others on machines including, Lathe, CNC (Turning & Milling), Vertical Milling Machine, Fabrication processes (welding, cutting, bending), Basic casting, sheet metal, and surface finishing
• Review machining programs, tooling selection, fixturing, and process sequence planning.
• Troubleshoot shop-floor issues during prototype build.

Technical Ownership

• Conduct feasibility studies, tolerance stack-ups, and technical risk assessment before prototype execution.
• Execute FMEA (DFMEA / PFMEA) and DVP&R creation for prototype validation.
• Perform hands-on testing, measurements, and data interpretation to refine designs.
• Ensure adherence to R&D quality requirements and safety standards.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Work closely with Mechanical design team, FEA/CFD team, Manufacturing & fabrication partners, Electrical/Controls engineers, Supply chain & vendor development
• Provide technical insights and hands-on support throughout the prototype lifecycle.

Project Execution

• Manage prototype timelines, resource planning, material availability, and workshop readiness.
• Document build processes, lessons learned, and prototype evolution.
• Support transfer from prototype to pilot/production builds through design-for-manufacturing improvements.

Preferred candidate profile

• B.Tech in Mechanical Engineering (minimum)
• M.Tech preferred
• Candidates from Tier 1 / Tier 2 engineering institutes strongly preferred.

• 10+ years

  in heavy machinery, SPMs (Special Purpose Machines), industrial equipment, or prototype-led product development.
• Strong hands-on exposure to:
• Machining operations
• CNC programming/operation basics
• Assembly of mechanical systems
• Fabrication processes
• Experience developing unique, complex, or first-time-build machines/systems.