The Rapid Prototyping Design Engineer is responsible for the design and development of physical prototypes supporting validation of vehicle components, systems, and concepts. The role focuses on translating digital designs into semi-functional prototypes to support design verification, ergonomic evaluation, and feasibility assessments.

The position acts as a key interface between digital development and physical validation, collaborating with design, DMU, and engineering teams to ensure that prototypes meet project requirements in terms of quality, cost, and timing.
In addition, the role supports series development activities in vehicle packaging and integration, contributing up to approximately 30% of capacity to ensure alignment between prototype realization and production-relevant design requirements.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and develop rapid prototypes for vehicle components and subsystems, ensuring functional relevance and timely availability.
• Translate CAD and DMU data into manufacturable prototype solutions, identifying and addressing feasibility gaps between digital design and physical implementation.
• Select appropriate prototyping methods and technologies (e.g. 3D printing, machining, soft tooling) based on technical requirements and project constraints.
• Perform basic feasibility and integration checks related to packaging, assembly, and usability, in close coordination with engineering teams.
• Collaborate with design, ergonomics, and DMU teams to ensure prototypes support validation of key requirements.
• Support prototype builds and test setups, ensuring readiness for design reviews and validation activities.
• Document and communicate prototype results, providing structured feedback to improve product design.
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of prototyping workflows and methods.
• Coordinate with suppliers and internal workshops for prototype manufacturing and delivery.

• University degree in mechanical engineering, automotive engineering, product development, or a related field.
• Approximately 3–6 years of relevant experience in product development, prototyping, or design engineering.
• Experience with prototyping methods (e.g. additive manufacturing, machining, basic assembly processes).
• Proficiency in CAD tools (preferably Siemens NX); basic understanding of DMU environments is an advantage.
• Basic understanding of vehicle packaging and component integration.
• Strong analytical and hands-on problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently within defined scopes, while collaborating effectively with cross-functional teams.
• Good communication skills in English; German is a plus.
• Structured and solution-oriented working style.

Experience or exposure to vehicle packaging, dimensional integration, or component design in series development is an advantage.