Design Engineer - Aerospace & Defense

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Embark on a thrilling career journey with PWR Performance Products, a true success story that began with a father and son's vision. With relentless passion and dedication, we have become a leading manufacturer of cutting-edge automotive cooling products. We are a renowned name in top-tier global motorsports, and we've grown into a powerhouse with over 550 talented staff across America, Australia, and the UK. Join our vibrant team in our state-of-the-art facility. Be part of our rapid growth, shaping the future of our traditional markets and venturing into thrilling industries such as electric, aerospace, and defence. Now is the perfect time to join us.

Why Join PWR?

• A career not just a job. We’re serious about supporting our people build fantastic careers and have a commitment to promoting from within. Multiple members of our executive team started in our entry level positions.
• Free uniforms that not only ensure a professional appearance but also eliminate the hassle and expense of maintaining a work wardrobe.
• All employees receive 50% off all PWR products. We also have great discounts across other automotive suppliers and financial wellbeing programs.
• Work with the latest and greatest technology.
• Experience PWR’s thriving and inclusive company culture, where our long-standing staff members reflect our commitment to creating a supportive and rewarding work environment.
• We value and recognize outstanding achievements through our recognition program, which includes monetary rewards for Employee of the Year, Apprentice of the Year, Employee of the Month, and Apprentice of the Quarter.

The Opportunity

As a Design Engineer for our Aerospace & Defense team, you will be responsible for developing and refining component designs that drive innovation and efficiency across our various work programs. This position ensures that all designs meet the highest standards of quality, functionality, and manufacturability, supporting PWR's commitment to excellence.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Developing and delivering design solutions from concept through to manufacturability, ensuring alignment with production capabilities and requirements
• Collaborating closely with Project Engineering and Manufacturing teams to troubleshoot design challenges and ensure seamless integration with manufacturing processes
• Applying critical thinking and technical expertise to optimize designs for CNC machining, with a strong focus on aluminum materials
• Interpreting engineering concepts and translating them into practical, production-ready solutions
• Engaging proactively with production staff, building effective working relationships to ensure design intent is maintained during manufacturing
• Working directly with customers and internal teams to develop innovative technical solutions that leverage PWR’s manufacturing capabilities
• Supporting the commercialization of engineering solutions by aligning customer needs with PWR’s service offerings
• Being an active on-site team member at PWR’s state-of-the-art facility

Key Competencies:

• Manufacturing Design Expertise: Strong background in design for manufacturability (DFM), cost optimization, and integration with lean production methods in high-performance engineering environments
• 3D CAD Proficiency: Highly proficient in SolidWorks for developing complex 3D models, assemblies, and detailed technical drawings, with experience spanning motorsport and aerospace-grade components
• Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing (GD&T): Understanding of GD&T principles to support accurate communication of design intent and inspection criteria across complex components (highly valued but not essential)
• CNC Manufacturing Knowledge: Practical, hands-on experience with CNC machining centers and lathes, including a solid grasp of achievable tolerances, machining constraints, and quality control through component measurement
• CNC Programming Awareness: Exposure to or experience in CNC programming, including G-code generation and toolpath optimization, particularly for precision machining of advanced materials (highly regarded from a design perspective)
• Tool Making and Fixture Design: Knowledge and practical experience in designing and fabricating custom tools, jigs, and fixtures to streamline prototyping, production, and assembly workflows
• Composite Materials Understanding: Familiarity with composite design, including carbon fiber layups, sandwich panel construction, and the integration of composites into structural systems— considered a bonus
• Personal Drive and Initiative: Demonstrates strong motivation, dedication, and a proactive approach to solving challenges and delivering high-quality outcomes in demanding, fast-paced environments
• Communication and Team Collaboration: Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, capable of clearly conveying technical ideas and working effectively across multidisciplinary teams
• Team-Oriented Mindset: Reliable and adaptable team player, committed to collective goals and maintaining a positive, high-performance team dynamic

Health and Safety:

• Ensure compliance with all WHS policies as outlined in the HR Manual and Employment Policy guide
• Participate and contribute in all WHS Toolbox meetings
• Participate in department WHS, Fire and Evacuation and Emergency training
• Demonstrate a high degree of safety awareness

If you would like to be considered, please apply via Indeed today.

PWR North America is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against otherwise qualified applicants based on sex, race, creed, color, religion, ancestry, age, marital status, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, disability or veteran status, or other protected characteristics. It is PWR North America’s policy to recruit, hire, train, promote, assign, transfer, and terminate based on an employee’s own ability, achievement, experience, conduct, and other legitimate business reasons.

Job Type: Full-time

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee discount
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Referral program
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Ability to Commute:

• Indianapolis, IN 46268 (Required)

Work Location: In person