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.

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

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

Create and maintain DFMEAs as needed

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

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

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

Track and communicate design changes across cross-functional teams

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

Support manufacturing and assembly areas during initial production runs

Analyze field installations and usage to inform design improvements

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

Demonstrate commitment to workplace safety and adherence to personnel policies

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

Bachelor’s degree in engineering or a related technical field

7–10+ years of relevant industry experience

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

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

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.