Product Design Engineer Lead

Job Description

Position Summary

The Design Engineer is responsible for the design, development, testing, and launch of new products for the commercial and architectural HVAC market. This role supports the entire product development process, from concept generation and prototype development through testing, manufacturing implementation, and product launch.

The Design Engineer works closely with Engineering, Production, Purchasing, and Quality teams to ensure products meet performance, manufacturability, cost, and quality objectives. The position also supports daily engineering activities, product testing, and production-related engineering needs.

Supervisory Responsibilities

• Directly supervises the Drafting Manager and Drafting Team.
• Assigns and prioritizes drafting and engineering workloads to meet project schedules and business activities.
• Establish and maintain drafting standards, engineering documentation procedures, and quality expectations.
• Fosters collaboration between Engineering, Drafting, Manufacturing, Sales, and other departments.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Product Development

• Design new extrusion, sheet metal, and fabricated components for new product development initiatives.
• Develop and refine product designs using Autodesk Inventor and AutoCAD.
• Create and maintain engineering drawings, assembly drawings, bills of materials, and product documentation.
• Perform product evaluations and engineering calculations to verify design performance and compliance.
• Conduct product cost analyses and recommend cost reduction opportunities.
• Assist with new product launches, including production implementation and operator training.

Prototype Development and Testing

• Coordinate prototype fabrication and testing activities with manufacturing personnel.
• Assist with prototype assembly and product evaluation when required.
• Design and construct test samples and fixtures.
• Participate in product testing, installation, data collection, and test witnessing.
• Analyze test results and recommend design improvements based on findings.

Manufacturing Support

• Support production with engineering troubleshooting and continuous improvement activities.
• Create CNC laser cutting programs and manufacturing files.
• Create CNC router programs using AlphaCAM as needed.
• Generate CAD layouts and nesting programs to support manufacturing operations.
• Work with Purchasing to identify and source new components and materials.

Engineering Support

• Assist the drafting team in developing customer submittal drawings and project-specific documentation.
• Maintain engineering records, drawings, and product data.
• Respond to engineering requests and prioritize work assignments to support business needs.

Required Skills and Abilities

• Strong mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams including manufacturing, purchasing, quality, and sales.
• Strong organizational skills with attention to detail and accuracy.
• Proficiency in Autodesk Inventor and AutoCAD.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and other Microsoft Office applications.
• Knowledge of CNC programming principles and manufacturing processes preferred.
• Ability to interpret engineering drawings, specifications, and technical documents.
• Self-motivated with the ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Education and Experience

Required

• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Engineering Technology, or a related technical field.
• 1+ years of engineering, design, drafting, manufacturing, or related technical experience.

Preferred

• Experience with sheet metal fabrication, aluminum extrusions, CNC machining, or HVAC products.
• Experience using Autodesk Inventor.
• Experience with CNC programming and AlphaCAM.
• Experience working in a manufacturing environment.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to work in both office and manufacturing environments.
• Ability to occasionally lift up to 30 pounds.
• Ability to stand, walk, and work in a manufacturing facility as required.
• Occasional travel to manufacturing facilities, suppliers, or testing locations may be required.