Sr. Design Engineer

Summary / Objective

The Sr. Design Engineer is responsible for solving day-to-day design challenges of existing products as well as developing new products from concept through production. This role supports existing production products through VAVE and continuous improvement initiatives and contributes to the creation of new derivative systems. Additional responsibilities include researching new product opportunities, analyzing customer design proposals, defining specifications, benchmarking competitor products, and reviewing warranty data to assess the feasibility of new product designs or applications.

Duties and Responsibilities

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

1. Design and/or modify electromechanical/mechanical products or systems (e.g., rack and pinion drive systems, linear motion control, water management systems, load distribution, etc.) to meet application requirements

2. Create detailed component and assembly designs/models; generate engineering prints with complete dimensions and specifications

3. Create and maintain DFMEAs as needed

4. Write design validation plans and test procedures; assist test personnel in defining equipment, methods, and procedures

5. Develop conceptual and prototype designs, including 3D models, renderings, and physical samples

6. Collaborate with manufacturing engineering and suppliers to ensure efficient manufacturing and assembly methods

7. Track and communicate design changes across cross-functional teams

8. Provide technical input for documentation including test reports, product specifications, and manuals

9. Support manufacturing and assembly areas during initial production runs

10. Analyze field installations and usage to inform design improvements

11. Contribute to the development and refinement of internal engineering standards and practices

12. Demonstrate commitment to workplace safety and adherence to personnel policies

13. Ensure designs meet applicable codes, standards, and regulatory requirements

Essential Functions

• Lead the design, development, and evaluation of new products

• Support improvement and cost-reduction initiatives for existing products

• Collaborate in cross-functional teams to ensure seamless product transitions from concept to production

• Estimate project costs and timelines from concept through launch

• Develop and execute test plans in coordination with lab personnel to ensure compliance with market and regulatory requirements

• Prepare drawings and develop prototypes using sound engineering principles

• Conduct audits and review test data to verify product performance aligns with goals

Other Key Responsibilities

• Work with customers and internal teams to refine product designs

• Implement DFM/DFA principles in collaboration with suppliers and manufacturing teams

• Finalize engineering documentation for product release

• Assist with production implementation and validation activities

• Contribute to the development and allocation of engineering resources and standards

Working Conditions

• Primarily indoor, office-based work

• May require sitting for extended periods

• Frequent use of computers and office equipment

• Occasional travel to customer or manufacturing facilities

• Periodic work on production floors, involving standing, walking, kneeling, or crouching

Qualifications

1. Bachelor’s degree in engineering or a related technical field

2. 7–10 years of relevant industry experience

3. Proficiency in 3D CAD software required — Creo and SolidWorks experience strongly preferred

4. Familiarity with RV, mobile equipment, or mechanical consumer products preferred

5. Strong verbal and written communication skills

Competencies

• Strong mechanical engineering expertise; ability to design electromechanical systems

• Skilled in parametric modeling and FEA

• Effective communicator with strong presentation and documentation abilities

• Solid understanding of mechanical drive systems, electronics, and load analysis

• Analytical thinker capable of addressing complex engineering problems

• Knowledgeable in materials, properties, and manufacturability of parts

• Experience with DFM/DFA best practices

• High creativity and problem-solving ability

• Deep knowledge of GD&T and drawing standards

• Able to perform tolerance stack-ups and analyze inspection data

• Familiar with D/PFMEA and other design risk tools

• Demonstrates strong multitasking, attention to detail, and quality mindset

• Works well independently and collaboratively in team settings

Supervisory Responsibility

This position does not include supervisory responsibilities at the time of hiring.