Design Engineer

JOB SUMMARY: Collaborate with Sales, Manufacturing, and Engineering teams to create new designs and improve existing designs with the result of producing high quality products utilizing the most cost-effective manufacturing method. Solve cargo securement problems by modifying existing products, developing new products, or applying existing products in new ways.

This position is based at the Kinedyne location in Prattville, AL. Relocation assistance is available.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES: None. The position has no direct reports but will routinely take a lead role in managing individual projects and working in a team environment.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Respond to new product requests and product improvements initiated by the Sales and Marketing team.
• Determine feasibility and functional requirements through independent analysis, research, and customer contact. Then create new products according to the Product Development Process (PDP).
• Conduct market research and create design concepts and proposals for projects.
• Establish and present design reviews.
• Manage multiple product development projects concurrently for on-time delivery to the market.
• Maintain professional and technical knowledge by attending educational workshops, reviewing professional publications, establishing personal networks, and participating in professional societies.
• Frequently interface with customers, both internal and external, by telephone, email, and in person to determine their needs and expectations.
• Fabricate samples of working models for demonstration.
• Use computer-aided design to model concepts and create final production documentation packages.
• Promote an organizational culture of continuous improvement by championing the use of Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma principles, including Plan For Every Part (PFEP), pull systems, Kanban, etc.
• Prepare and present status updates on product development and design concepts.
• Maintain and coordinate activities to ensure vital operational metrics.
• Prepare and present product training sessions for new employees.
• Present and collaborate using Microsoft Teams.

WORKING CONDITIONS/EXPOSURES:

• Working conditions are primarily in a climate-controlled office setting with time often spent in a manufacturing and warehouse environment.
• Limited travel (including overnight travel) required to customer locations, trade shows, and other industry events and locations.
• Employees are expected to maintain their work area in a neat, clean, orderly, and safe manner.

COMPETENCIES:

Core Competencies:
• Customer Focus – Understanding who your customer is and their needs.
• Dealing with Ambiguity – Comfortable dealing with change and situations in which a clear answer has yet to be discovered.
• Drive for Results – Identifying key goals and using all available people and resources to get there.
• Priority Setting – Knowing what comes first.

Additional Competencies:
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and analytical skills to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams.
• Good communication and public speaking skills.
• Strong social skills including interpersonal, telephone, and email skills to successfully collaborate and communicate with a variety of personalities.
• Ability to maintain a professional, organized, and positive demeanor, even when dealing with difficult issues and challenging situations.
• Ability to think and operate on the fly, to assess situations, to weigh options, and to make sound business decisions.
• Ability to maintain accountability and prioritize tasks.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

• Visit industrial sites to observe products and equipment.
• Ability to operate and demonstrate cargo control equipment such as winches, straps, beams, etc.
• Frequent computer use (sitting for extended periods, typing, viewing screen, use of mouse).

KNOWLEDGE and SKILLS:

• Strong computer skills. Knowledge of MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Teams, and Outlook.
• Knowledge of SolidWorks and/or 3D Design, AutoCAD, or DraftSight and associated PDM systems.
• Project management skills. Strong time management skills.
• Excellent written and communication skills.
• Understanding of and ability to properly apply engineering principles.
• Proficiency in mathematics and design principles.•

EDUCATION and CERTIFICATIONS:

• Bachelors Degree in Engineering or a related field required, preferably a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering (MSME).
• Must have a passion for continuous learning and professional development.
• In lieu of a degree, significant experience in a related industry or equivalent education may be considered.

EXPERIENCE:

• At least five years of experience in product design and development.
• Exposure to the transportation industry is a plus.
• A combination of years of experience, advanced education, and industry-specific training and experience may be considered in lieu of the minimum requirement.