Product Development Engineer

Job Description

Job Description

Essential Job Duties and Responsibilities :

• This position is responsible for both : 1) design and development of potential future product offerings or "next generation" improvements to existing products, and 2) working closely with potential customers to translate their needs into initial design concepts, ensuring both external customer specifications and internal design requirements are met.
• Lead the technical design for assigned Technology Projects by : creating 3D CAD models; 2D drawings using GD and completing simulation studies as needed.
• Build and validate prototypes, including : creation of BOM; coordination with prototype suppliers; assembly of prototypes;

and development of test plan and related lab orders. In some cases, Advanced Development Engineer may personally complete prototype build and lab tests.

Perform competitor benchmarking studies including : functional testing, lifetime testing, tear downs; and cost estimation;

and summarize findings in technical reports.

Collaborate effectively with internal stakeholders throughout the design process (i.e., Process Development; Series Development;

Lab; Purchasing; Sales; Management; etc.). Serve in a project leadership role, managing assigned Technology Projects according to the RAPA Project Handbook and the RAPA Technology Project Protocol.

At the conclusion of Technology Projects, provide technical support to ensure product's smooth transition to Series Development by coordinating with assigned Product Engineer in R&D.

Support overall product success by assisting Series Development, as needed.

Represent RAPA professionally to external customers on assigned projects while negotiating : technical specifications; timing of deliverables;

and resource requirements.

• Provide mentorship, coaching, and training to other RAPA personnel in your areas of expertise.
• Maintain product and company reputation by complying with federal and state regulations.
• Other duties as assigned.

Skills, Education and Experience

• Successful candidates must : possess strong analytical and problem solving skills; be proactive in addressing road blocks;
• demonstrate natural curiosity; find motivation in solving open-ended challenges; enjoy taking ownership of projects; demonstrate exceptional accountability;

and relentlessly pursue creative solutions.

A minimum of five years of product engineering / design experience in an automotive manufacturing environment (preferably pneumatic suspension systems) and a Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering or relevant engineering field are required.

An advanced degree (Master’s or Doctorate) in a relevant engineering field will be considered in lieu of experience.

• Experience using computer-aided design (CAD) is required. CREO preferred.
• Experience creating 2D drawings with implementation of GD&T is required.
• Experience in Design for Manufacturability is required.
• Experience in design for injection molded parts is highly preferred.
• Technical / mechanical aptitude with mechatronics experience preferred.
• Experience with simulation software for structure, system, magnetic circuit, or CFD is preferred.
• Ability to function in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment and handle multiple projects and assignments with proficiency.
• Ability to travel as required up to 10%.
11 days ago