R&D Engineer (Product Development Designer / Engineer)

Oetiker Group; Town of Lancaster (NY); On-site; USD 85,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive pay

Paid time off

Medical insurance

Job summary

Oetiker Group is seeking an engineer to join the Engineering team in the US to support development, design, testing, and validation of new and existing products. You will collaborate with Sales, Quality, and Manufacturing to translate customer and product requirements into manufacturable solutions.

The role offers opportunities across experience levels, requiring strong CAD skills, attention to detail, and hands-on prototype work to ensure robust product launches and continuous improvements.

Qualifications

• Associate or Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or related field preferred.
• Experience with 3D CAD and engineering drawings.
• Knowledge of mechanical design, manufacturing processes, and APQP methods.

Responsibilities

• Support design and development of new products, components, and assemblies.
• Create and modify 3D CAD models, drawings, and bills of materials.
• Assist with engineering analysis, design reviews, tolerance evaluations, and product improvements.
• Coordinate prototype builds and prototype evaluation.
• Plan, coordinate, and perform product testing and validation activities.
• Document test results and prepare engineering reports.

Skills

Mechanical design

3D CAD (SolidWorks)

APQP, DVP&R, FMEA

Reading engineering drawings

Cross-functional collaboration

Problem solving

Manufacturing processes

Education

Bachelor's or Associate degree in Engineering

Manufacturing/product development experience

Tools

SAP

Job description

Being part of 'Team Oetiker' means working with over 2,000 people in 32 countries and at 13 production sites. We are the leading provider of high-end interconnect solutions for automotive and industrial applications. Our clamps, rings, straps and quick connectors can be found on virtually every vehicle in the world and in millions of household appliances. We are a Swiss family-owned company with a long-term perspective and a focus on sustainable business success. Does this sound like a place you want to work? Then get in touch with us!

Job Description

Position Summary

In this role, you will be a member of the Engineering team responsible for supporting the development, design, testing, validation, and implementation of new and existing products. This position works closely with Sales, Quality, Manufacturing, and other cross-functional teams to transform customer and product requirements into manufacturable solutions.

The position may be filled at different experience levels depending on the candidate’s education, technical background, relevant experience, and demonstrated capabilities.

Essential Functions

• Support the design and development of new products, components, assemblies, fixtures, and related products.
• Create and modify 3D CAD models, engineering drawings, and bills of material.
• Support engineering analysis, design reviews, tolerance evaluations, and product improvements.
• Coordinate prototype builds and assists with prototype evaluation.
• Plan, coordinate, and perform product testing and validation activities.
• Document test results and prepare engineering reports and supporting documentation.
• Work with Manufacturing and Quality to support production launch, process development, and continuous improvement.
• Support engineering changes and maintenance of existing products.
• Assist with customer‑specific product modifications and development projects.
• Maintain product and engineering information within SAP and other engineering systems.
• Participate in cross‑functional project teams and communicate project status, risks, and technical findings.
• Travel to customers, suppliers, and other company locations as required to support product development, testing, and project activities.

Qualifications

Knowledge, Skills, Abilites

• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and technical specifications.
• Knowledge of mechanical design, product development, and manufacturing processes.
• Experience with 3D CAD software; SolidWorks experience preferred.
• Strong analytical, problem‑solving, and troubleshooting skills.
• Ability to support product and process development activities, including APQP, DVP&R, and FMEA.
• Strong communication skills and ability to work effectively with Manufacturing, Quality, suppliers, customers, and other cross‑functional teams.
• Ability to manage multiple assignments, priorities, and project activities.
• Structured and organized approach with a high degree of initiative and teamwork.
• Hands‑on approach to product development, prototype builds, testing, validation, and problem solving.
• Knowledge of IATF 16949, ISO 14001, or similar quality systems is a plus.
• SAP experience a plus

Education / Experience

• Associate or Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Engineering Technology, Mechanical Design, Manufacturing, or a related field preferred.
• Relevant design, manufacturing, or product‑development experience may be considered in place of a degree.
• Experience with 3D CAD and engineering drawings.
• Manufacturing or automotive industry experience is a plus.

Additional Information

What We Offer:

• Competitive compensation packages
• Paid Time Off (starts at 17 days a year)
• Medical, Dental, Vision
• Generous 401k match
• Education tuition reimbursement program
• Opportunities for Advancement
• Comprehensive Training Program and access to Online Learning

Working together to make over 2 billion connections every year. That’s what we do at Oetiker. Our ‘One Oetiker’ culture is built on open and respectful collaboration and strong relationships with team members. Our strength comes directly from our team, our values and a culture of trust, teamwork, and professional growth. Oetiker strongly encourages equal rights. We appreciate every candidate and explicitly support a diverse and balanced workforce.

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.