Design Engineer

The main function of a design engineer is to develop and design manufactured products, such as cars and home appliances. A typical design engineer needs to combine artistic talent with research on product use, marketing, and materials to create the most functional and appealing product design.

• Prepare sketches of ideas, detailed drawings, illustrations, artwork, or blueprints, using drafting instruments, paints and brushes, or computer-aided design equipment.
• Modify and refine designs, using working models, to conform with customer specifications, production limitations, or changes in design trends.
• Coordinate the look and function of product lines.
• Confer with engineering, marketing, production, or sales departments, or with customers, to establish and evaluate design concepts for manufactured products.
• Read publications, attend showings, and study competing products and design styles and motifs to obtain perspective and generate design concepts.
• Design graphic material for use as illustration or advertising on manufactured materials and packaging or containers.

• Creativity, verbal and written communication skills and problem solving ability.
• Basic ability to utilize various forms of media, including print, electronic and film.
• Basic knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings and models.
• Previous experience using the computer to create layouts and generate new images.
• Experience with Adobe imaging software (i.e., Illustrator, Photoshop), computer aided design (CAD) software and graphics software.

• Bachelor's degree in industrial design, architecture or engineering. Masters degree preferred.