KWS Product Development Engineer (R&D)

Company History:

Established in 2010, Knight Wall Systems Inc. ("KWS") specializes in the design and manufacture of thermally efficient rainscreen attachment systems. Driven by innovation and high performance, our technologies have set new standards for the building envelope industry, resulting in several awards such as Environmental Building News' "Top 10 Green Building Products," Readers' Choice Award from Metal Construction News magazine, and two-time recipient of Architectural Record's Record Products designations. We value the unique contributions of each team member and are committed to creating a collaborative, welcoming environment where everyone's voice is heard and valued.

Position Summary

The Product Development Engineer leads innovation in designing, prototyping, and testing advanced attachment solutions for cladding and building envelope systems. They will be responsible for seeing the product/process to completion from conceptualization to launch. This role is critical to developing high-performance, sustainable products that meet evolving design standards and fabrication practices to ensure our solutions remain industry-leading.

Product Development & Innovation

• Research, design, and develop new products and processes for cladding support systems using established engineering principles.
• Create and refine prototypes, ensuring conformity through testing and fabrication support.
• Transition designs to manufacturing and contribute to continuous product improvement initiatives.
• Develop and maintain CAD models, assemblies, drawings, and ERP part libraries of products in the Development phase.

Testing & Compliance

• Ensure compliance with building codes, standards, and transparency requirements (including IBC, IRC, IECC, ASTM, ASHRAE, etc).
• Coordinate code compliance reports, certifications, and other documentation.
• Coordinate thermal, structural performance and other testing with 3rd party labs needed to meet regulatory and customer specifications.
• Develop and execute benchmark/verification/validation test plans for components and assemblies in-house.

Materials & Process Engineering

• Maintain expertise in materials science, coatings, finishes, and fastening methods.
• Perform materials testing and analysis; generate specifications and technical documentation.
• Optimize fabrication processes such as roll forming, stamping, perforation, modular assembly, injection molding, extrusion, pultrusion or other techniques.
• Integrate sustainable materials and practices aligned with LEED, Passive House, and other green building standards.

Market & Competitor Analysis

• Conduct competitor research and analyze the competitive landscape to identify opportunities for differentiation.
• Perform market research with the sales team to understand application challenges and emerging trends.
• Provide insights to guide product development strategies and ensure alignment with customer needs.

Building Science & Structural Fundamentals

• Apply building science principles to product design and performance.
• Read and interpret architectural plans and specifications for building projects.
• Understand structural engineering fundamentals and relevant codes and standards governing building structural design.

Collaboration & Mentorship

• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior engineers.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with design, manufacturing, and quality teams.
• Assist with customer technical inquiries, offering clear and timely solutions.

Project Management

• Develop schedules, monitor progress, and report updates to management of all ongoing development projects.
• Create SOPs, QC documentation, and equipment specifications for new products or new processes.

Education and Your Experience:

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, Civil Engineering, or related field.
• 5-7 years of experience in R&D or new product development.
• Strong understanding of facade design principles, building envelope performance, and steel fabrication techniques preferred.
• Proficiency in CAD and simulation tools (e.g., SolidWorks, Inventor, FEA).
• Proficient in reading and interpreting blueprints, technical drawings, and specifications.
• Proficient with Microsoft Excel, Word and Outlook.
• Familiarity with ASTM, AISI, and ICC standards for cladding and building envelope systems preferred.
• Working knowledge of ERP system maintenance (Epicor preferred) with support provided to direct reports and other team members.

Our Benefits

• Paid medical, dental, vision, and life insurance policies for employees with employer contributions to dependent coverage
• Voluntary plans (health savings account, flexible spending account, long term disability, buy up life & AD&D insurance, accident insurance, and dependent plans)
• 401(k) with employer match - fully vested after 90 day waiting period
• Paid Time Off (PTO), paid holidays and paid sick leave
• Onsite gym
• Training and professional development classes
• Fully equipped breakrooms with snacks and Keurig coffee
• Fun monthly employee events
• Family-friendly, collaborative culture
• Casual work environment
• So much more!

Send letter of introduction with product design/development information and your current resume to hr@knightwallsystems.com. No third party recruiters or search firms, please.