NPD Engineer

About the Position: Under general supervision, the NPD Engineer executes projects involving the creation, evaluation, and improvement of original product designs. This position participates in the analysis and validation of design and theoretical concepts while supporting the design, development, testing, and continuous improvement of products and systems. The NPD Engineer collaborates with cross-functional teams to ensure product quality, manufacturability, performance, and customer requirements are achieved throughout the product lifecycle.

Location: Chattanooga, TN (Jerome Avenue)

Key Deliverables

• Create accurate project specifications.
• Ensure engineering documents are current and properly maintained.
• Develop standard work templates and revision control processes.
• Assist in the design, development, implementation, and analysis of technical products and systems.
• Drive continuous improvement through project management and recommendations that enhance equipment, system, and process robustness.

Key Activities & Responsibilities

• Initiate and execute the Product Design and Development (PDD) process to ensure product definitions and specifications are met by all stakeholders.
• Participate in product design meetings involving product specifications, material selection, 3D CAD models, and detailed 2D drawings.
• Collaborate as a member of cross-functional project teams from concept through testing and production.
• Conduct Design for Manufacturing (DFM) assessments to ensure designs support lean manufacturing principles, cost objectives, production requirements, and performance expectations.
• Develop design concepts to meet cost and performance objectives while interfacing with vendors and suppliers to identify and approve components.
• Maintain design history and administer engineering document control processes to ensure drawings and specifications remain current.
• Identify opportunities for design commonality and standardization to improve manufacturing efficiency.
• Generate, document, and maintain engineering analyses, reports, and technical documentation.
• Present technical findings and recommendations to cross-functional stakeholders.
• Provide timely support for Root Cause Analysis and Corrective Action requests related to design issues, field performance concerns, and warranty claims.
• Support teammates and cross-functional partners to meet project milestones and production deadlines.
• Promote and maintain a safe and healthy work environment.
• Adhere to all company policies, procedures, and safety regulations.
• Wear required personal protective equipment (PPE) in accordance with training and site requirements.
• Maintain a clean and organized workspace through 6S principles.

To Be Successful in This Role, Your Experience and Competencies Are

Education

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, or a related engineering discipline required.

Experience

• 0-5+ years of engineering experience in new product development, product design, manufacturing, or a related engineering environment.
• Experience supporting the full product lifecycle from concept, design, prototype development, validation testing, and production launch preferred.
• Experience with heavy equipment, mobile equipment, industrial machinery, or manufacturing environments preferred.

Skills & Competencies

• Ability to build positive, collaborative relationships with customers, vendors, co-workers, and leadership.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and balance project responsibilities in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
• Demonstrated ability to influence others, contribute to team success, and drive continuous improvement.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to meet engineering, sales, and production deadlines.
• Flexibility and adaptability to changing priorities and business needs.
• Experience creating and maintaining engineering design standards and drawing standards.
• Customer-focused mindset with the ability to communicate technical concepts to non-technical audiences.
• Experience working with cross-functional teams consisting of both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook) and ERP systems such as Dynamics AX or equivalent.
• Proficiency with SolidWorks Professional and Autodesk Design Suite (AutoCAD, Inventor, Nastran In-CAD, 3DS Max, AutoCAD Electrical), or equivalent software.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Detail-oriented with strong analytical, problem-solving, and critical-thinking abilities.
• Results-oriented with a demonstrated commitment to quality and continuous improvement.
• Ability to work independently while contributing effectively within a team environment.

Supervisory and Leadership Expectations: None.