LEER GROUP dba Pace Edwards
Position Description – Design Engineer
Title: Project / Design Engineer
Reporting to: OPS and ENG Manager, Pace Edwards (Matrixed to Senior Director of Engineering (TAG)
Date: Dec 12 , 2023
Location: Centralia, WA
Pace Edwards by LEER® is the premium brand for assured quality, function, and innovative designs that work! The industry leader in Retractable Tonneau Covers for more than 30 years, our specialties include Spring-Activated and Electric Retractable Tonneau Covers. Driven by an ever-changing truck market we’re always looking for the next great innovation to meet our customer’s needs. Pace Edwards by LEER® offers an extensive line of the highest quality Retractable Tonneau Covers available in the market today and are looking to expand our company through the development of new products and the growth of current product lines.
Overall Responsibilities:
Provide project delivery and product accountability in executing new product development ideas, product improvements, process improvements and cost reductions. The area of focus will be involved in developing the next generation of truck bed cover solutions, truck bed systems, truck/vehicle accessories, along with mechanical/electrical part assemblies and/or significantly enhancing existing products for the automotive aftermarket industry. This role requires a self-starter with a hands-on approach and the ability to work unaided making significant independent decisions building something new and exciting. Ability to liaison with Corporate Engineering, Product Management, and Pace Edwards Operations, as well as absorb and enhance Pace Edwards by LEER® brand DNA in manufacturing and design, to protect the brand, deliver high quality and well-engineered products, and communicate in multiple locations will be critical.
Specific Responsibilities:

• Develop and maintain product specifications such as: CAD part models, assemblies, drawings, bills of material, material specifications, performance/test plans and quality specifications.
• Identify, execute, and sustain continuous improvement projects using lean principals to improve on time delivery, reduce costs and inventory.
• Organize project needs and goals into clearly defined deliverables, activities, and action items, with specific emphasis on quality, cost, and delivery schedules to meet customer requirements.
• Cross-functional interaction: Provide technical assistance to operations/production, purchasing/supply chain, sales/customer service, marketing, corp. engineering and finance.
• Identify, evaluate, and implement cost reduction, VAVE, opportunities for new and modified product concepts from design through production launch to maximize product value and competitiveness.
• Demonstrate quality tools usage in product design and development – such as dMFEAs, pFMEAs, design reviews, DVP&Rs, DFA/DFM, 8-D analysis and problem solving, product launch engagement.
• Perform first article and non-conforming material inspection, root cause analysis and recommend disposition.
• Generate product prototypes and perform product testing for internal evaluation as well as for customer feedback.
• Work with manufacturing TMs to establish procedures from first production run (launch) including analysis of dimensions, fit, function, and performance as well as identifying technical issues and tooling requirements.
• Identify/evaluate, in conjunction with sale & marketing and upper management, imaginative or creative solutions that address unmet needs that can improve the competitive position of the company.

Additional Requirements:

• Proficient with CAD drafting and 3D modeling skill (Autodesk Inventor a plus), Microsoft Office Suite, (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.). Must have excellent presentation skills.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced entrepreneurial environment while balancing competing priorities, complex situations, and tight deadlines.
• Maintains focus and positive attitude amidst change and under pressure. Relates will to people both verbally and in written form.
• Self-Motivated with Attention to Detail and ability to be “Hands On” with product development and problem solving.
• Strong mechanical aptitude, familiarity with machine shop practice and industrial manufacturing methods. (Manufacturing experience a plus)
• Must work well with customers and within a cross-functional team environment.
• Excellent negotiation skills in challenging situations, both internally and externally.
• Good judgment and decision-making ability.
• At times, work may require willingness to work a flexible schedule.
• Some Travel may be required to support installations and on-site evaluations.
• Other duties as assigned.

Work Schedule:
Monday – Thursday 10 hours 6:00am to 4:30pm
We offer competitive salary and Full Benefits including Health insurance, Dental, Vision, 10 Paid Holidays, Vacation, Sick Time, 401k and Roth plans.
Individuals with the above qualifications are encouraged to visit www.pace-edwards.com and then respond with a cover letter and resume.
Contact: Email or Fax a resume and cover letter to dswalander@pace-edwards.com, Attn: Human Resource Manager or Fax (360) 237-1060.
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