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Manufacturing Prototype Tech

DUO FORM PLASTICS · Edwardsburg, MItodayverified 1 h ago
$48k – $52kfrom the posting

Build and assemble plastic thermoformed prototypes, trim and bond parts, and give design feedback.

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Worth knowing

Why it is interesting. Hands-on mix of solvent/ultrasonic welding, trimming, and fixture building with direct design feedback.

Might not be for you. Shop-floor assembly and trimming role, not R&D or materials development.

Mostly at the benchHands-on execution First industry roleBS acceptable

Adjacent materials rolePrototyping with plastic thermoformed materials; assemble plastic enclosures via solvent/ultrasonic welding; trim formed plastic shells

Seniority
Technician
Work
On-site
Type
Full-time
Experience
2+ yrs
Industry
General manufacturing
Role
Manufacturing / Production
Techniques
calipers107 rolesmicrometers87 rolesultrasonic thickness gauges

Role details

Job Summary

We are seeking a skilled Project Technician specializing in manufacturing assembly and prototyping, with a heavy focus on plastic thermoformed materials. You will translate engineering designs into physical prototype models, evaluate part fitment, execute secondary trimming and assembly, and provide critical feedback to the design team before full-scale production.

Duties

  • Prototype Assembly: Assemble multi-piece plastic enclosures, panels, and structures using structural adhesives, solvent welding, ultrasonic welding, and mechanical fasteners.
  • Secondary Trimming & Fabrication: Operate hand routers, and pneumatic saws and grinders to trim flash and cut precise openings in formed plastic shells.
  • Hardware Integration: Install press-fit inserts, ultrasonic threaded inserts, rivets, and reinforcement brackets into plastic components.
  • Fixture Creation: Assist in the design and building of custom wooden, epoxy, or 3D-printed trim fixtures, cooling racks, and assembly jigs to ensure prototype consistency.
  • Quality Inspection: Use calipers, micrometers, and ultrasonic thickness gauges to verify part tolerances, checking for wall thinning, warping, or blushing.
  • Engineering Feedback: Document assembly interferences, draft angle issues, or material defects, collaborating directly with design engineers to optimize the manufacturing process

Qualifications

  • Experience: 2+ years of experience in manufacturing assembly, prototyping, or model making, specifically working with plastics (ABS, Acrylic, Polycarbonate, HDPE, etc.).
  • Technical Skills: High proficiency in reading CAD models, GD&T schematics, and technical blueprints.
  • Tool Competency: Plastic bonding agents, hand tools, and precision measurement equipment.
  • Problem Solving: Strong spatial reasoning and troubleshooting skills to fix prototype flaws like webbing or material warp.

Pay: $23.00 - $25.00 per hour

Benefits:

  • 401(k)
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Health savings account
  • Life insurance
  • Paid sick time
  • Paid time off
  • Vision insurance

Work Location: In person

Related roles

Common questions

What is the salary for the Manufacturing Prototype Tech role at DUO FORM PLASTICS?

The listed annual base salary range is $48K–$52K. This figure is taken from the posting itself.

Where is the Manufacturing Prototype Tech role at DUO FORM PLASTICS based?

This role is based in Edwardsburg, MI.

What degree is required for the Manufacturing Prototype Tech role at DUO FORM PLASTICS?

This role requires a Not specified.

How many years of experience does this Manufacturing Prototype Tech role require?

The posting calls for at least 2 years of relevant experience.

What polymers or materials does this Manufacturing Prototype Tech role work with?

ABS, Acrylic, Polycarbonate, HDPE.

What techniques or methods are required for this Manufacturing Prototype Tech role?

calipers, micrometers, ultrasonic thickness gauges.