NTI Prototyping Engineer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: NTI Prototyping Engineer Company: Aptiv Location: Krakow, Lesser Poland Voivodeship, Poland Job Type: Full-time Category: Engineering / Manufacturing Operations Date Posted: 2026-02-21 Experience Level: Mid-level (2-5 years) Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is crucial for advancing Aptiv's prototyping capabilities within the EDS segment, focusing on next-generation electrified, automated, and connected vehicles.
• The position involves hands-on management and development of a prototyping laboratory, with a significant emphasis on 3D printing technologies and advanced manufacturing processes.
• The NTI Prototyping Engineer will collaborate closely with cross-functional project teams to deliver high-quality prototype components and drive innovation in manufacturing technologies.
• A key aspect of this role is the continuous improvement of prototyping processes, equipment, and materials to enhance efficiency, repeatability, and overall productivity within the Development Center.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided job description is for an "NTI Prototyping Engineer" within Aptiv's EDS (Electrical Distribution Systems) division. While the title and core responsibilities point towards a technical engineering role, the emphasis on prototyping, laboratory maintenance, and introducing new technologies suggests a strong operational component. This enhancement focuses on framing the role through an operations lens, highlighting process management, efficiency improvements, and cross-functional collaboration, which are critical in a prototyping operations context, especially within the automotive industry. The "NTI" likely refers to "New Technology Introduction" or similar, underscoring the role's focus on innovation and operational implementation of new manufacturing methods.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Prototype Component Preparation: Prepare and deliver prototype components for project teams, ensuring strict adherence to quality standards, functional specifications, and project timelines.
• Prototyping Capability Expansion: Drive the enhancement of the Development Center's prototyping capabilities by researching, evaluating, and implementing new materials, machinery, and manufacturing technologies, with a primary focus on additive manufacturing (3D printing).
• Design for Prototyping: Develop and modify designs, including molds, 3D models, and component geometries, to optimize manufacturability, reduce prototyping lead times, and improve prototype efficiency.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work closely with project teams, R&D engineers, and product development specialists to understand evolving requirements, provide technical guidance on prototyping feasibility, and ensure timely delivery of critical components.
• Technical Problem-Solving: Proactively identify, analyze, and resolve technical challenges encountered during prototype development and manufacturing, employing innovative and data-driven approaches to overcome obstacles.
• Process Documentation and Knowledge Management: Maintain comprehensive documentation for prototyping activities, including equipment maintenance logs, material usage records, process parameters, and prototype test results, ensuring traceability and knowledge transfer.
• Training and Mentorship: Provide training and technical guidance to team members and project stakeholders on the operation of 3D printing equipment, prototyping processes, and best practices, fostering a culture of continuous learning and skill development.
• Continuous Improvement: Identify and implement opportunities for process optimization, equipment upgrades, and workflow enhancements within the prototyping laboratory to increase efficiency, reduce costs, and improve overall productivity.

📝 Enhancement Note: The original responsibilities have been expanded to emphasize the operational aspects of managing a prototyping lab. This includes detailing the lifecycle of prototype preparation, the strategic element of capability expansion, the critical function of design for manufacturability in a prototyping context, and the importance of knowledge management and continuous improvement, all of which are core to operations roles.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Master’s degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, or a closely related technical field).
• Advanced degrees or specialized certifications in additive manufacturing or materials science are highly advantageous.

Experience:

• 2-5 years of progressive experience in engineering, with a significant focus on prototyping, additive manufacturing, or advanced manufacturing processes.
• Demonstrated experience in managing and operating laboratory equipment, with a strong understanding of maintenance and calibration procedures.
• Experience in the automotive industry, particularly with automotive components and systems, is a significant advantage.

Required Skills:

• 3D Printing Expertise: In-depth knowledge of various 3D printing technologies (e.g., FDM, SLA, SLS), materials, and their applications in rapid prototyping.
• CAD Proficiency: Strong command of CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD, Fusion 360) for designing, modifying, and preparing 3D models for manufacturing.
• Problem-Solving: Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to diagnose technical issues and develop effective solutions.
• Technical Documentation: Ability to create and maintain detailed technical documentation, including process guides, equipment logs, and test reports.
• Communication Skills: Strong verbal and written communication skills for effective collaboration with internal teams and stakeholders.
• Motivation & Commitment: High level of self-motivation, initiative, and a strong commitment to delivering high-quality results and meeting project deadlines.

Preferred Skills:

• Advanced CAD/CAE: Proficiency in advanced engineering software such as Siemens NX or CATIA.
• 3D Scanning & CNC Milling: Knowledge and practical experience with 3D scanning technologies and CNC milling processes.
• Material Science: Understanding of material properties and their selection for specific prototyping applications.
• Prototype Design & Manufacturing: Hands-on experience in designing and manufacturing prototypes, including understanding of tooling, molds, and post-processing techniques.
• Lean Manufacturing/Process Improvement: Familiarity with lean principles or Six Sigma methodologies for process optimization.
• English Language Proficiency: Good command of English, both spoken and written, for effective communication in a global organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications have been structured to align with an operations-focused engineering role. Emphasis is placed on practical skills like CAD proficiency, technical documentation, and problem-solving, which are essential for operational execution. Preferred skills like Siemens NX/CATIA, 3D scanning, CNC milling, and material science knowledge are highlighted as they directly contribute to the advanced capabilities expected in a prototyping operations environment. The "2-5 years" experience level is inferred from the "Master's degree" requirement and the nature of responsibilities.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Prototyping Case Studies: Showcase projects where you successfully designed, manufactured, or improved prototypes, demonstrating your ability to translate requirements into tangible components.
• 3D Printing Process Optimization: Examples of how you've optimized 3D printing parameters, material selection, or post-processing techniques to achieve specific quality, strength, or aesthetic outcomes.
• CAD Design Examples: Portfolios demonstrating proficiency in CAD software, including examples of complex assemblies, design modifications for manufacturability, and creation of molds or fixtures.
• Problem-Solving Scenarios: Documented instances where you encountered and successfully resolved technical challenges in prototyping, highlighting your analytical approach and innovative solutions.
• Process Documentation Samples: Examples of technical documentation created, such as standard operating procedures (SOPs) for equipment use, maintenance logs, or material tracking systems.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design and Optimization: Demonstrate experience in mapping out and refining prototyping workflows, from initial design to final component delivery, identifying bottlenecks and implementing efficiency improvements.
• Implementation and Automation: Show examples of introducing new technologies or automating parts of the prototyping process to increase throughput, reduce errors, or enhance precision.
• Measurement and Performance Analysis: Provide examples of how you've tracked key performance indicators (KPIs) for prototyping operations (e.g., lead time, cost per prototype, material utilization, defect rates) and used this data for continuous improvement.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section is tailored to an engineering role with strong operational responsibilities in a prototyping environment. The emphasis is on tangible evidence of process management, problem-solving, and technical execution, which are vital for operations professionals. Case studies and documentation samples are key to demonstrating the ability to manage and improve operational processes.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on industry benchmarks for a Mid-Level Prototyping Engineer with a Master's degree in Krakow, Poland, the estimated annual gross salary range is between 90,000 PLN and 130,000 PLN. This estimate accounts for the required experience level, specialized technical skills, and the cost of living in Krakow.

Benefits:

• Well-Being Program: Access to regular webinars, workshops, and networking events designed to support employee well-being and professional development.
• Hybrid Work Model: Flexibility with a hybrid work arrangement, including a minimum of 47 days of remote work per year and flexible working hours to promote work-life balance.
• Employee Pension Plan: Employer-contributed pension plan to support long-term financial security.
• Employee Capital Plan (PPK): Participation in a company-sponsored capital plan for additional savings.
• Multisport Card: Access to a Multisport card for discounted or free access to various sports and recreational facilities.
• Private Health Care: Comprehensive private healthcare coverage through Signal Iduna, ensuring access to medical services.
• Life Insurance: Life insurance coverage for the employee and their family members, providing financial protection.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time working hours are expected, likely around 40 hours per week. The role offers flexibility with its hybrid work arrangement and flexible working hours, which is beneficial for managing complex prototyping schedules and personal commitments.

📝 Enhancement Note: A salary range for Krakow, Poland, has been estimated based on typical compensation for mid-level engineering roles requiring specialized technical skills. The benefits have been detailed as provided in the original description, with a focus on aspects that are attractive to professionals seeking a balanced work environment and long-term security. The working hours are contextualized to reflect the flexibility offered.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Automotive Technology and Mobility Solutions. Aptiv is a global technology company that develops safer, greener, and more connected solutions for the mobility industry, specializing in vehicle architecture, electrification, and connected services. The EDS division, which this role is part of, is a leader in low and high voltage power and signal distribution systems. Company Size: Aptiv is a large, publicly traded global corporation with over 150,000 employees worldwide (as of recent public data). This implies a structured environment with established processes, ample resources, and opportunities for global collaboration. Founded: Aptiv (formerly Delphi) has a long history in the automotive industry, with its roots tracing back to General Motors' automotive parts operations. Aptiv itself was formed in 2017. This heritage suggests a company with deep expertise, a commitment to innovation, and a stable operational framework.

Team Structure:

• Prototyping Lab Focus: The role is part of a dedicated NTI (New Technology Introduction) or Prototyping team within the Development Center.
• Reporting: The engineer will likely report to a Team Lead or Manager responsible for the Prototyping Laboratory or New Technology Development.
• Cross-Functional Interaction: Close collaboration is expected with various project teams, R&D engineers, product development specialists, and potentially manufacturing engineers from different business units within the EDS segment.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Prototyping: Emphasis on using data from tests and simulations to inform design decisions and material selection for prototypes.
• Agile Prototyping: Adherence to agile principles for rapid iteration and quick turnaround times in prototype development to meet fast-paced project demands.
• Quality & Standards: Maintenance of high operational standards for equipment, processes, and component quality, aligned with automotive industry requirements.

Company Website: https://www.aptiv.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: The company context has been fleshed out using Aptiv's known profile as a major automotive technology supplier. The description of the industry, company size, and history provides essential background for understanding the operational environment and the significance of the EDS division. The team structure and methodology sections are inferred to reflect a typical operational and R&D setup within a large automotive technology firm.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This position is classified as a Mid-Level Engineer, typically requiring 2-5 years of relevant experience. It represents a crucial step for engineers looking to specialize in advanced manufacturing technologies and operational execution within R&D. The role offers significant autonomy in managing laboratory operations and introducing new technologies. Reporting Structure: The NTI Prototyping Engineer will report to a management figure within the NTI or Development Center, likely a Prototyping Lab Manager or a New Technology Development Lead. This structure allows for focused technical guidance while providing exposure to higher-level strategic planning for the lab's capabilities. Operations Impact: This role directly impacts the speed and quality of New Technology Introduction (NTI) and product development. By ensuring the prototyping lab is state-of-the-art and efficient, the engineer enables faster validation of new concepts, reduces time-to-market for innovative automotive solutions, and ultimately contributes to Aptiv's competitive edge in electrified, automated, and connected vehicle technologies.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization in Additive Manufacturing: Deepen expertise in advanced 3D printing techniques, materials, and industrial applications, potentially leading to roles as a Senior Prototyping Engineer or Additive Manufacturing Specialist.
• Process Development Leadership: Transition into roles focused on developing and optimizing manufacturing processes for new products, moving towards Manufacturing Engineering or Process Engineering leadership.
• R&D Project Management: Leverage prototyping experience to manage R&D projects, focusing on the operational aspects of bringing new technologies from concept to validation.
• Cross-Functional Mobility: Opportunities to move into related engineering disciplines within Aptiv, such as Product Design, Mechanical Engineering, or even into roles with a stronger focus on production-level manufacturing integration.

📝 Enhancement Note: This analysis frames the role within a broader operations and R&D career trajectory. It highlights the impact of the role on business objectives and outlines specific pathways for professional growth, emphasizing specialization in core operations areas like advanced manufacturing and process optimization.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based at Aptiv's POL Tech Center in Krakow, Poland. This is likely a modern, dedicated engineering and technology development facility designed to foster innovation and collaboration. Office Location(s): Krakow, Poland. This location places the candidate within a significant hub for technology and engineering in Poland, offering access to a skilled workforce and a vibrant city. Workspace Context:

• Laboratory Environment: The primary workspace will be within a prototyping laboratory, equipped with advanced 3D printers, CAD workstations, and potentially other manufacturing equipment (e.g., CNC, 3D scanners).
• Collaborative Spaces: The Tech Center will likely feature collaborative zones, meeting rooms, and shared workspaces designed to facilitate interaction between engineers and project teams.
• Technology Access: Employees will have access to cutting-edge prototyping technologies and relevant software tools, supporting hands-on learning and experimentation. Work Schedule: While the role is full-time, Aptiv offers a hybrid work model with flexible working hours and a minimum of 47 days of remote work per year. This provides a balance between on-site lab work and remote tasks like design, documentation, and virtual collaboration.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section provides context on the physical and operational work environment, emphasizing the advanced technical setting of a prototyping laboratory and the benefits of Aptiv's hybrid work policy for an engineering role.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and cover letter by the Talent Acquisition team to assess basic qualifications and alignment with the role.
• Technical Interview (Hiring Manager/Team Lead): In-depth discussion on your engineering background, knowledge of 3D technologies, CAD skills, and problem-solving approach. Expect scenario-based questions related to prototyping challenges.
• Portfolio Review/Presentation: You may be asked to present specific examples from your portfolio, detailing your process, the technical challenges, and the solutions you implemented. This is a critical stage to demonstrate practical application of your skills.
• Team/Cultural Fit Interview: Interaction with potential future colleagues to assess collaboration style, communication skills, and alignment with Aptiv's values and the team's working methods.
• Final Interview/Offer: A concluding discussion with senior management or HR, followed by a potential job offer.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Highlight Process & Impact: For each project in your portfolio, clearly articulate the problem, your approach (process), the tools/technologies used, and the quantifiable results or impact achieved (e.g., reduced lead time, improved prototype accuracy, cost savings).
• Focus on 3D Technologies: Showcase your expertise with 3D printing, including material selection rationale, design considerations for additive manufacturing, and any optimization efforts.
• Demonstrate CAD Proficiency: Include examples of complex designs, modifications made for manufacturability, and any work with molds, fixtures, or specialized tooling.
• Showcase Problem-Solving: Present case studies where you successfully overcame significant technical hurdles. Detail your analytical process and the innovative solutions you developed.
• Organize for Clarity: Structure your portfolio logically, perhaps by project type or technology, making it easy for interviewers to navigate and understand your capabilities.

Challenge Preparation:

• Technical Scenarios: Be prepared for hypothetical scenarios related to equipment malfunction, material limitations, tight project deadlines, or conflicting design requirements. Think about how you would approach troubleshooting and solution development.
• Process Improvement Questions: Anticipate questions about how you would improve existing prototyping processes, increase lab efficiency, or implement new technologies.
• CAD/Design Exercises: You might be given a simple design task or asked to critique a design for its manufacturability in a prototyping context.
• Material Selection Rationale: Be ready to discuss why you would choose specific materials for different prototyping applications, considering factors like strength, flexibility, temperature resistance, and cost.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section provides actionable advice for candidates, focusing on how to best present their qualifications and prepare for the interview process, with a strong emphasis on the portfolio and practical application of skills relevant to operations and engineering.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD Software: Proficiency in industry-standard CAD tools is essential. This includes general-purpose CAD packages and potentially specialized automotive design software.
  • Required: General CAD proficiency (e.g., SolidWorks, Fusion 360).
  • Preferred: Siemens NX, CATIA.
• 3D Printers: Hands-on experience with various types of industrial 3D printers (e.g., FDM, SLA, SLS, PolyJet) and their associated software/slicers.
• 3D Scanning Equipment: Familiarity with 3D scanners for reverse engineering or quality inspection.
• CNC Milling Machines: Basic understanding or experience with CNC milling for subtractive manufacturing.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Analysis Tools: Ability to use basic data analysis tools (e.g., Microsoft Excel, Google Sheets) for tracking material usage, equipment uptime, and prototype performance metrics.
• Documentation Software: Proficiency in standard office suites for creating technical reports, logs, and presentations.

CRM & Automation:

• While not a direct CRM role, understanding how prototyping supports the broader product development cycle and customer engagement is beneficial.
• Project Management Tools: Familiarity with project management software (e.g., Jira, Asana, Microsoft Project) for tracking prototyping tasks and timelines.
• PLM Systems (Potentially): Exposure to Product Lifecycle Management systems for managing design data and revisions.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section details the specific tools and technologies critical for this role, emphasizing CAD software (with preferred options like Siemens NX/CATIA), various 3D printing technologies, and related manufacturing equipment. It also touches on data analysis and project management tools relevant to an operational engineering context.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Innovation & Continuous Improvement: Aptiv values a forward-thinking approach, encouraging the exploration and implementation of new technologies and processes to drive efficiency and product advancement.
• Collaboration & Teamwork: A strong emphasis on working together across departments and globally to achieve common goals. Open communication and mutual support are key.
• Quality & Excellence: A commitment to delivering high-quality products and services, adhering to strict industry standards and striving for engineering excellence in all aspects of work.
• Customer Focus: Understanding and meeting the evolving needs of automotive customers by providing innovative and reliable solutions.
• Integrity & Respect: Upholding ethical standards and fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment where all employees are treated with respect.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: The role requires seamless collaboration with product development, R&D, and potentially manufacturing teams. This involves proactive communication, sharing technical insights, and joint problem-solving.
• Process Review & Feedback: An environment where processes are regularly reviewed, and constructive feedback is encouraged to drive continuous improvement in prototyping operations.
• Knowledge Sharing: A culture that promotes sharing best practices, lessons learned, and technical expertise, particularly regarding new technologies and equipment.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section outlines Aptiv's likely operational values and collaboration style, framing them in the context of an engineering and prototyping role. It emphasizes how these values translate into daily work, particularly concerning innovation, quality, and cross-functional teamwork.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Rapid Technological Evolution: Keeping pace with the fast-evolving landscape of 3D printing and additive manufacturing technologies requires continuous learning and adaptation.
• Material Performance Limitations: Balancing the need for rapid prototyping with the technical limitations of materials, ensuring prototypes accurately represent final product performance.
• Balancing Speed and Quality: The inherent tension between delivering prototypes quickly to meet project deadlines and ensuring the highest standards of quality and accuracy.
• Integration of New Technologies: Successfully integrating new materials, machines, and software into existing workflows without disrupting ongoing projects.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Additive Manufacturing Training: Opportunities to attend specialized workshops, conferences, and training programs focused on cutting-edge 3D printing and prototyping techniques.
• Material Science Exploration: Deepen understanding of polymer science, composites, and other advanced materials relevant to automotive applications.
• CAD/Software Skill Enhancement: Access to training for advanced features in Siemens NX, CATIA, or other relevant engineering software.
• Project Leadership: Potential to lead small R&D projects focused on prototyping technology development or process improvement initiatives.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section addresses the inherent challenges of a role at the forefront of new technology introduction and outlines concrete growth paths and learning opportunities relevant to an operations-focused engineering career.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Operations Strategy: "Describe a time you had to optimize a prototyping process for speed and cost. What steps did you take, and what was the outcome?" Focus on demonstrating your understanding of efficiency, resource management, and lean principles in a lab setting.
• Collaboration & Stakeholder Management: "How do you handle conflicting priorities or requirements from different project teams requesting prototype services? Provide an example." Prepare to discuss your communication strategies and how you manage stakeholder expectations effectively.
• Problem-Solving: "Walk me through a complex technical challenge you faced with a 3D printer or a prototype design. How did you diagnose the issue, what solution did you implement, and what did you learn?" Emphasize your systematic approach and analytical skills.

Company & Culture Questions:

• Aptiv's Role in Mobility: "What excites you about Aptiv's contribution to electrified, automated, and connected vehicles, and how does this role fit into that vision?" Show you've researched the company's mission and understand its impact.
• Team Dynamics: "How do you contribute to a collaborative team environment, especially when working with engineers from diverse backgrounds or departments?" Be ready to share examples of your teamwork and communication style.
• Operations Impact: "How do you measure the success of your prototyping work? What KPIs are important in a prototyping lab?" Prepare to discuss metrics related to turnaround time, quality, material usage, and equipment uptime.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Focus on the "Why" and "How": For each portfolio piece, clearly explain the project's objective, the specific technical problem, your detailed process (the "how"), and the impact of your work.
• Quantify Results: Whenever possible, use numbers and data to illustrate your achievements (e.g., "reduced print time by 15%," "improved dimensional accuracy by 0.1mm," "supported 5 critical project milestones").
• Highlight 3D Printing Expertise: Showcase specific examples of your mastery of different 3D printing technologies, material selection, and design for additive manufacturing principles.
• Demonstrate Process Improvement: If you have examples of improving a process, walk the interviewers through your analysis, proposed changes, implementation, and the resulting benefits.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section provides targeted interview preparation advice, focusing on operations-centric questions, how to showcase relevant skills, and how to present a portfolio effectively, aligning with the technical and operational demands of the role.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the Aptiv careers portal at https://aptiv.wd5.myworkdayjobs.com/APTIV_CAREERS/job/Krakow-Poland/NTI-Prototyping-Engineer_J000689548.
• Tailor Your Resume: Highlight specific experience with 3D printing technologies, CAD software (especially Siemens NX/CATIA if applicable), prototype design, and any process improvement initiatives. Use keywords from the job description.
• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate 2-3 strong examples of your work that best demonstrate your skills in prototyping, 3D printing, CAD design, and problem-solving. Be ready to discuss the process, challenges, and outcomes in detail.
• Research Aptiv and the EDS Division: Understand Aptiv's mission, its role in the automotive industry, and specifically the importance of the Electrical Distribution Systems (EDS) segment. Familiarize yourself with their commitment to electrification and connectivity.
• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare answers to common behavioral and technical questions, focusing on your experience with operations-related tasks in a prototyping or manufacturing context.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.