Product Design Engineer

HIKINEX; Springfield (MO); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading manufacturer of suspension systems is seeking a Product Engineer to lead the design and development of suspension systems. The role requires 4-6 years of structural design experience, preferably with heavy-duty vehicles, and strong project management abilities. The ideal candidate will excel in communication and have a degree in engineering. Benefits include occasional travel opportunities and a focus on continuous improvement.

Qualifications

• 4-6 years of experience in vehicle structural design, preferably with heavy-duty trucks.
• Ability to manage development projects and meet deadlines.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead suspension system design and development.
• Manage technical aspects of product design projects.
• Coordinate with CAD, FEA, and lab personnel.

Skills

Vehicle structural design

Dynamic structural analysis

Finite element analysis

Product innovation

Communication skills

Project management

Computer-Aided Design

Education

Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical, Industrial, Agricultural, Aeronautical Engineering

Tools

CAD tools

Finite Element Analysis software

Job description

POSITION / TITLE: Product Engineer

For a leading manufacturer of suspension systems for heavy‑duty vehicles, including applications such as emergency and utility vehicles.

Position Purpose

Position Purpose:
To lead overall suspension system design and development. This role is responsible for validating designs, managing design analysis projects, and driving continuous improvement initiatives.

Essential Functions

• Manage all technical aspects of major product design and development projects, and/or multiple smaller products, utilizing our standard Product Planning and Development Procedure.
• Design, validate, and provide test reports and sign‑off documents to ensure production readiness. Design for manufacturing.
• Coordinate with CAD, FEA, and laboratory personnel, and interface effectively with other internal departments.
• Coordinate the technical design and test aspects of projects with suppliers and customers.
• Drive continuous improvement through employee development, process improvement, and the elimination of waste. Ensure safety in the lab and office environments. Manage value‑added and value‑engineered projects.
• Work with the product portfolio team throughout the product development process to define project objectives.
• Interface with the end‑user for technical support calls and develop action plans as required.
• Other duties as assigned.
• Maintain regular attendance.

Education and Training

• Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical, Industrial, Agricultural, Aeronautical, or a related engineering field is required.

Minimum Qualifications

• Four to six years of experience in vehicle structural design (heavy or medium‑duty truck experience is highly preferred) with exposure to dynamic structural analysis, finite element analysis, fatigue analysis, and product design.
• Demonstrated ability to manage development projects and meet deadlines.
• Proven experience and skill in product innovation.
• Some controls experience is a plus.
• Exposure to or training in vehicle dynamics, vibration, or controls is desirable.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to lead a cross‑functional launch effort.
• Self‑starter with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Working knowledge of Computer‑Aided Design and Analysis tools.
• Experience with GD&T and IATF 16949 or ISO 9001 is preferred.
• Occasional travel is required.

Physical Demands

• Must be able to remain in a stationary position or move about frequently.
• Must be able to lift 50 lbs.
• Minimal need to move about inside the office and plant areas.
• Occasional fine motor skills are needed for tasks like typing, filing, and writing.

Environmental Conditions

• Primary work is in an office environment.
• Minimal exposure to loud noises in plant areas.

Behavioral Traits

• Innovative, receptive to feedback, and cooperative.
• Strong attention to detail.
• Skilled in facilitating groups.
• Experience in managing programs or projects.
• Strong self‑management skills.
• A consistent safety focus.
• A committed team player.