Designer I

About the Role

The Designer I supports new product development, product improvements, and current product engineering activities through the creation and maintenance of engineering designs and product documentation. This position works as part of a cross-functional product development team to create accurate CAD models, drawings, bills of materials, and related engineering documentation while learning company design standards, manufacturing processes, and product development practices. This position contributes to project success through attention to detail, technical aptitude, and effective collaboration with engineers, manufacturing, suppliers, and other functional groups.

Responsibilities

• Create and maintain 3D CAD models, assemblies, and detailed drawings for components and systems.
• Develop and update engineering documentation including bills of material (BOMs), parts lists, and engineering change documentation.
• Assist engineers in the design, development, and validation of new products and product improvements.
• Prepare sketches, layouts, and design concepts for assigned tasks.
• Support prototype builds by tracking materials, assisting with assembly, documenting design changes, and coordinating with test, drafting, manufacturing, and shop resources as needed.
• Apply sound engineering and drafting principles to ensure designs meet performance, manufacturability, durability, quality, and cost objectives.
• Coordinate assigned work with engineers and project teams to meet project schedules and deliverables.
• Research materials, manufacturing processes, and components to support design decisions.
• Participate in Engineering Change Order (ECO) and Engineering Change Notice (ECN) processes.
• Work with manufacturing, test, purchasing, and suppliers to resolve design and documentation issues.
• Learn and apply geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T), company standards, and industry standards.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives including design-for-cost, quality improvement, and product maintenance projects.
• Maintain accurate documentation within company CAD and ERP systems.
• Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned.

Qualifications

• Associate degree in Mechanical Design, Drafting Technology, Engineering Technology, or a related technical field; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Demonstrated proficiency with 3D CAD software.
• Basic understanding of mechanical design principles and manufacturing processes.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a team environment.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering Technology or related field.
• Experience with Creo (Pro/E), SAP, or similar engineering systems.
• Knowledge of GD&T principles.
• Experience working with prototypes, fabrication, or manufacturing processes.
• Internship or co-op experience in product development or mechanical design.

Key Competencies

• CAD Modeling and Drafting
• Engineering Documentation
• Problem Solving
• Technical Learning Agility
• Planning and Organization
• Team Collaboration
• Attention to Detail
• Continuous Improvement
• Mechanical Aptitude
• Communication Skills

Working Relationships

This position works closely with engineers, shop resources, test technicians, manufacturing engineers, purchasing, quality, suppliers, and other product development team members to support successful execution of product development and sustaining engineering activities.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and affordable medical/dental/vision plan
• 401k
• Dress for your day casual corporate environment
• Convenient Bloomington, MN HQ location near both St. Paul and Minneapolis
• Onsite café with breakfast and lunch, plus attached Caribou Coffee
• Complimentary onsite fitness facility
• Mental health and financial health resources
• 20 hours of paid volunteer time
• Summer hours with flexible schedule and early Friday dismissal (noon) at Bloomington HQ
• Potential eligibility for incentive program based on individual and organizational performance
• Access to pay early with the dailypay app

Pay

The pay range takes into account skills, experience, education, and location. A reasonable estimate of the annual pay range is between $64,000-$80,000. Cash compensation is one piece of our competitive total rewards package. Eligibility for incentive programs and award amounts are determined by company policy and performance metrics.