Research Engineer

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Be Part of Something That Matters. At Viking, we're not just building fire protection equipment – we're building peace of mind. Our products help protect lives and property around the world, and we take that responsibility seriously. With over 100 years of experience and a reputation for doing things the right way, we're driven by our values : innovation, integrity, and a deep commitment to safety. If you're looking for a career where your work truly makes an impact, where ideas are welcomed, growth is encouraged, and every day has purpose, Viking is the place for you. Join us and help protect what matters most!

Responsibilities

• Research & Innovation – Define and execute research programs to develop new technologies, materials, processes, and product concepts. Stay current with industry trends, standards (NFPA, FM, UL), and emerging technologies to identify opportunities for innovation. Drive ideation and generate creative technical solutions for advanced fire protection applications.
• Design & Development – Perform theoretical force, fluid dynamics, and thermal calculations to guide data-driven design decisions. Apply computational tools (CFD and FEA) to optimize geometry, system integration, and material selection. Benchmark and analyze competitive products and alternative manufacturing approaches. Develop prototypes using CAD (SolidWorks) and validate them through both physical and simulation-based testing. Create engineering drawings, specifications, and GD&T documentation aligned with Viking standards (ASME Y14.5). Coordinate with Patent Management team to review IP status on existing and future designs.
• Testing & Validation – Plan and execute internal laboratory testing to meet approval standards and customer requirements. Coordinate with Test Engineer to design, adapt, and implement internal test methods, procedures, and equipment to simulate real-world performance. Facilitate lab testing for certification to ensure timely completion with 100% First Pass Acceptance. Operate and interpret data from advanced test equipment (Instron, hydrostatic, leakage, comparators, calipers, thread gages, etc.).
• Project Leadership – Provide technical expertise and leadership to advance development projects from concept to commercialization. Initiate DFMEAs, assess risks, and develop mitigation plans throughout the product lifecycle. Lead projects using defined project management and ISO processes to deliver on scope, schedule, and budget. Collaborate closely with R&D, Manufacturing Engineering, Quality, Purchasing, Suppliers, and Product Management. Communicate project status, risks, and design intent to stakeholders and customers.
• Advanced Product Development – Serve as a subject matter expert for sprinklers, valves, detection, gases, and CPVC systems. Ensure compliance with approval standards and documentation of project activities, including logs, reports, BOMs, and Engineering Changes. Drive product engineering change implementation from initiation through closure. Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Seniority level

Mid-Senior level

Employment type

Full-time

Job function

Engineering and Information Technology

Grand Rapids, MI $105,000.00–$117,000.00

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