Design Engineer
Position Summary:
The Design Engineer is responsible for the design, development, testing, and continuous improvement of Quality Stainless Products' line of automotive service equipment. This position leads new product development from concept through production while providing sustaining engineering support for existing products. The Design Engineer is a hands-on contributor who develops innovative solutions, builds and tests prototypes, collaborates closely with manufacturing, and ensures products meet customer expectations for safety, quality, durability, and manufacturability. This role works closely with manufacturing, purchasing, sales, suppliers, and customers to deliver industry-leading products that support QSP's commitment to US manufacturing and continuous innovation, technician safety, manufacturability, and customer-driven product development.
Essential Responsibilities:New Product Development:
· Lead new product development projects from ideation through production launch.
· Develop innovative product designs that meet customer, regulatory, & business requirements.
· Create 3D CAD models, engineering drawings, bills of materials (BOMs), & product specifications.
· Perform engineering calculations, tolerance stack analysis, and design reviews.
· Build, assemble, and evaluate functional prototypes and proof of concept models.
· Develop and execute product testing plans to verify performance, durability, reliability, capacity, and compliance with design requirements.
· Analyze internal and external test results, identify design improvements, and implement modifications based on testing and validation.
· Collaborate with manufacturing to ensure products are designed for manufacturability and assembly (DFM/DFA).
· Coordinate design reviews and incorporate feedback.
· Support product launches and transition designs into production.
Sustaining Engineering:
· Provide engineering support for existing product lines.
· Investigate and resolve product performance, manufacturing, and quality issues.
· Design product improvements that reduce cost, improve quality, increase reliability, enhance manufacturability, and ease of use.
· Process Engineering Change Requests (ECRs) and Engineering Change Orders (ECOs).
· Maintain engineering drawings, assembly instructions, service manuals, replacement parts documentation, and technical publications to ensure accurate customer and production support.
· Evaluate and approve component substitutions when necessary.
· Support supplier qualification and alternate sourcing initiatives.
· Analyze field failures, create reports and implement corrective actions.
Prototype Fabrication & Testing:
· Fabricate, assemble, modify and troubleshoot engineering prototypes using shop tools, rapid prototyping equipment and production components.
· Develop test fixtures and equipment as needed to evaluate products.
· Conduct functional, environmental, and life cycle testing to validate product designs.
· Document test procedures, results, observations and recommendations.
· Work with manufacturing to refine prototype designs into production-ready products.
· Support production by developing assembly fixtures, manufacturing aids, and process improvements.
Cross-functional Collaboration:
· Work closely with manufacturing, purchasing, and sales to resolve technical issues.
· Talk directly with end users to troubleshoot products and develop solutions.
· Provide technical guidance during customer discussions and product evaluations.
· Support production with troubleshooting and process improvement initiatives.
· Participate in design reviews, review meetings, risk assessments and continuous improvement activities.
· Gather customer feedback and translate field observations into product improvements.
· Observe product use and identify improvement opportunities.
· Collaborate with suppliers to improve manufacturability, reduce costs, and resolve technical issues.
Documentation & Compliance:
· Maintain accurate engineering documentation in accordance with company procedures.
· Maintain SOPs and work instructions throughout the evolution of processes.
· Ensure products comply with applicable industry standards, customer specifications, and regulatory requirements.
· Develop validation reports, test specifications, test procedures, and engineering documentation.
· Maintain revision control of drawings, 3D models, and all engineering records.
· Participate in Value Engineering initiatives to reduce product cost while maintaining quality and performance.
Qualifications:Required:
· Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or related engineering discipline.
· Experience in mechanical product design and development.
· Experience with sheet metal design.
· Experience building, assembling, and testing engineering prototypes.
· Proficiency with 3D CAD software (SolidWorks Professional preferred).
· Proficiency with Microsoft Office products.
· Strong understanding of manufacturing processes, machining fabrication, assembly, and prototype construction.
· Ability to read and create engineering drawings.
· Knowledge of GD&T.
· Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and project management skills.
· Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
· Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
Preferred:
· Experience with Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) and ERP Systems.
· Experience with ISO, Six-Sigma, or Lean principles.
· Knowledge of DFM, DFA, and DFMEA principles.
· Experience designing test fixtures and validation equipment.
· Experience with root cause analysis and corrective action methodologies.
· Experience with Sheet metal design (Laser cut and forming).
· Experience with vertical mills and lathes.
· Understanding of 3D printing capabilities.
· Experience designing welded assemblies
· Knowledge of hydraulic and pneumatic systems
Key Competencies:
· Product design & innovation
· Hands-on mechanical aptitude
· Prototype fabrication & testing
· Technical communication
· Analytical problem solving
· Project management
· Continuous improvement
· Cross-functional collaboration
Physical Requirements:
· Ability to work in both office and industrial manufacturing environments.
· Ability to safely operate common shop equipment & hand tools.
· Ability to lift up to 40 pounds safely.
· Ability to stand for extended periods of time (testing and prototyping).
Pay: $70,000.00 - $90,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Flexible schedule
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
