OEM Engine Component Design Engineer

Overview

General Position Summary

The Design Engineer is responsible for the development, analysis, and support of mechanical components, primarily for engine-related OEM applications within the powersports industry (motorcycles, ATVs/UTVs, marine, small engines, etc.). This role involves creating and reviewing technical drawings, performing design and stress calculations, and coordinating with internal and external teams—including Japan-based engineering groups—to ensure that all projects meet performance, cost, quality, and production requirements.

The Design Engineer plays a key role in supporting cross-functional teams throughout the product lifecycle—from concept through production—while maintaining a strong focus on quality, manufacturability, and continuous improvement.

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams at the Schaumburg office and the manufacturing facility to track and support daily project activities.
• Lead the design and execution of projects involving engine-related and powersports-specific mechanical components.
• Analyze and evaluate component designs for functionality, durability, and manufacturability.
• Perform design, stress, and thermal calculations for new components.
• Create, update, and review technical drawings and documentation using Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) systems.
• Provide manufacturing support and design feedback to ensure production meets intent and quality standards.
• Manage the RFQ process, including cost estimation, with a focus on continuous cost reduction and value engineering.
• Lead and participate in project discussions with customers, suppliers, and cross-functional teams—including overseas affiliates in Japan.
• Support root-cause analysis, validation activities, and corrective-action processes for design- and manufacturing-related issues.

• Bachelor of Science in Engineering (Mechanical or related field) from an accredited institution.

• Minimum of 5 years of engineering experience in the automotive or powersports industry (engine components, fuel systems, throttle bodies, oil pumps, manifolds, or mechanical subsystems preferred).
• Experience working with OEM customers or Tier-1 suppliers.

• Proficiency in 3D CAD modeling software (e.g.,
  Creo
  , Solid Works, NX).
• Experience with 2D drawing tools (e.g., Fujitsu MX, Creo Elements, AutoCAD).
• Strong understanding of powersports or automotive materials, mechanisms, and design principles.
• Working knowledge of GD&T and dimensional stack-up analysis.
• Familiarity with quality processes such as FMEA, APQP, and PPAP.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills in both English and Japanese to interface with internal teams, overseas affiliates, and customers.
• Strong presentation, documentation, and relationship-building abilities.
• Analytical thinking with the ability to interpret technical data and customer specifications.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, especially Excel and PowerPoint; ERP/CRM experience is a plus.
• Detail-oriented with excellent organizational and time-management skills.
• Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively across departments and cultures.

• Knowledge of OEM standards and systems, such as PPAP, ISO 9001, and IATF 16949, is preferred.
• Willingness to travel domestically and internationally (approximately 10–20%), including travel to Japan.
• Japanese language proficiency is required (business-level reading/writing/speaking).
• Must occasionally lift and/or move up to 10 pounds.
• Specific vision requirements include close, distance, peripheral vision, and depth perception.
• Physical activities may occasionally include standing, walking, sitting, using hands to handle objects, as well as stooping, kneeling, crouching, or crawling.

Mikuni American Corporation is the American subsidiary of Mikuni Corporation, a leading Japanese manufacturer of engine components for automotive and commercial vehicles, powersports, general household and safety devices.