Engineer - Prototype Development - R&D
Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A.
Saline, MI, USA
Posted on Nov 13, 2025
Overview
Who we are
Collaborative. Respectful. A place to dream and do. These are just a few words that describe what life is like at Toyota. As one of the world’s most admired brands, Toyota is growing and leading the future of mobility through innovative, high-quality solutions designed to enhance lives and delight those we serve. We’re looking for talented team members who want to Dream. Do. Grow. with us.
To save time applying, Toyota does not offer sponsorship of job applicants for employment-based visas or any other work authorization for this position at this time.
Who we’re looking for
Toyota’s Vehicle Prototype Department (PD) is looking for a passionate and highly motivated Senior Engineer to join our weld and paint engineering team.
Reporting to the Prototype Development Senior Engineering Manager, the primary responsibility of this role is to lead preparation of tooling, process planning and suppliers during prototype builds to ensure highest quality and on-time vehicle delivery. Including but not limited to quoting, sourcing, CAD modeling, parts list confirmation, scheduling, quality control and supplier management as well as an understanding of weld and paint process and equipment.
The person in this role will support the Vehicle Prototype department's objective to support Toyota North America Product Development and Vehicle Evaluation.
What you’ll be doing
The required work is cyclical and will change during a project from early schedule planning to CV build management. The required work will start with early process planning for jigs and tooling and finish with leading CV build activity for welding and paint processes.
Grasp key project requirements to set early process targets and strategy.
In-house process planning considering Safety /Quality / Productivity/ Cost.
Develop and maintain Operation Plan (OP) for in-house process, tooling and vendor activity.
Clear communication of deliverables to the project team and Senior Manager.
Operation Plan tracking in-house process and tooling to meet project goals.
Attend project meetings and negotiate countermeasures.
Summarize status and report to upper management weekly.
Attend prototype vendors for part kento-kai, fixture approval and weekly status meetings.
Track and follow responsible processes, tooling, and vendor issues to closure.
Issue and manage in-house tooling specs.
Process offline robot programming.
Chair meetings with in-house shop and other groups to monitor vehicle build progress.
Travel to supply base to review parts prior to shipment.
Track and resolve quality problems.
Measure and adjust In-House tooling, N&P check welded sub-assemblies.
Multi-tasking will be required due to activity overlaps.
Supporting build process both at prototype vendor and at Prototype Development Weld and Paint line.
What you bring
Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Electrical, or Weld Engineering is required, a degree in Engineering Technology are not accepted.
1 - 3 years of experience working vehicle programs in either Manufacturing, Production Engineering, Prototype, Design or Quality Engineering.
Deep understanding of tooling (design and manufacturing) & Welding and Painting process planning.
Deep understanding in body structure and shell body, welding and painting process.
Proficient in body accuracy and related measurement equipment, model set, fixture and part scanning.
Proficient with 3D CAD software such as, Catia, CARROT, 3 Robot Offline Programming.
Excellent communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills to act as a representative of North America R&D to Toyota Manufacturing Centers, Manufacturing, Affiliates, and Suppliers.
Ability and willingness to coach and mentor less experienced engineers/co-ops.
A clean driving record with the Department of Motor Vehicle.
Must be willing to travel domestically and internationally up to 20% of the time.
Must be willing to work overtime and weekends up to 25% of the time and be available for early morning or late evening meeting calls with Japan.
What you may bring
Master’s degree in engineering.
Experience in other engineering fields such as design, procurement, quality or manufacturing.
Experience using PolyWorks.
Experience in LSW (Laser Screw Welding) or Self Piercing Rivets.
Terrace Experience in managing 3D Data.
Experience supporting equipment installations for weld or painting equipment.
What we’ll bring
During your interview process, our team will provide you with all the details of our industry-leading benefits and career development opportunities. A few highlights include:
A work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respect
Professional growth and development programs to help advance your career, as well as tuition reimbursement
Team Member Vehicle Purchase Discount
Toyota Team Member Lease Vehicle Program (if applicable)
Comprehensive health care and wellness plans for your entire family
Toyota 401(k) Savings Plan featuring a company match, as well as an annual retirement contribution from Toyota regardless of whether you contribute
Paid holidays and paid time off
Referral services related to prenatal services, adoption, childcare, schools and more
Tax Advantaged Accounts (Health Savings Account, Health Care FSA, Dependent Care FSA)
Belonging at Toyota
Our success begins and ends with our people. We embrace all perspectives and value unique human experiences. Respect for all is our North Star. Toyota is proud to have 10+ different Business Partnering Groups across 100 different North American chapter locations that support team members’ efforts to dream, do and grow without questioning that they belong.
Applicants for our positions are considered without regard to race, ethnicity, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, religion, military or veteran status, or any other characteristics protected by law.
Have a question, need assistance with your application or do you require any special accommodations? Please send an email to talent.acquisition@toyota.com.