What are the responsibilities and job description for the New Product Development Engineer position at Hammerton, Inc?
Hammerton is a leading American designer/manufacturer of custom decorative lighting for the hospitality, commercial and residential markets. We are known as a major design innovator in our industry, and we’re rapidly growing. Our in-house blown and kiln-fired glass capabilities, combined with our expertise in metal fabrication and machining, make us uniquely capable of addressing the needs of the design industry’s most discerning clients. Hammerton lighting can be found in leading five-star hotels and resorts, award-winning restaurants and many of the most beautiful homes in North America.
SUMMARY OF THE POSITION
The New Product Development Engineer plays a hands-on role in designing, prototyping, and bringing new lighting products to life. This position is ideal for a mechanically inclined engineer who thrives in a collaborative environment and enjoys translating ideas into functional, manufacturable products through direct involvement in fabrication and testing.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
- Participate in all phases of new product development from concept through manufacturing release.
- Translate design concepts into prototypes using hands-on fabrication, 3D modeling, and mechanical testing.
- Design and build jigs, fixtures, and tooling to support prototype and production processes.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams including manufacturing, design, and sales to ensure product success.
- Develop part and assembly drawings, BOMs, and documentation to support manufacturing.
- Assist with sourcing and communicating with internal and external suppliers for parts and materials.
- Conduct mechanical testing and validation of prototypes to ensure performance and reliability.
- Perform cost evaluations and design for manufacturability reviews throughout the development cycle.
- Contribute to continuous improvement by recommending new materials, processes, or design approaches.
- Stay up-to-date with industry trends and technologies relevant to mechanical design and fabrication.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS
- Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field.
- 2–4 years of experience in product design, mechanical engineering, or prototyping roles.
- Proficiency in SolidWorks (2 years preferred).
- Demonstrated experience in hands-on prototyping, machining, or fabrication.
QUALIFICATIONS
- Strong mechanical aptitude with a passion for hands-on work.
- Skilled in working with tools, materials, and mechanical systems.
- Effective verbal and written communication skills.
- Comfortable working independently and in team settings.
- Familiarity with materials such as metals, glass, and plastics is a plus.
- Enthusiastic about solving real-world problems through innovative product design.
WORKING CONDITIONS
- Primarily office and shop floor environment with regular movement throughout the facility.
- Approximately 70% desk/computer work, 30% hands-on fabrication, testing, or prototyping.