Mechanical Engineer, Value Engineering

About the role

A little about the position: Job Summary Primary Role: Lead value engineering projects for the Auto Covers business unit and support other business units as needed. This role focuses on design changes, improved material utilization, change validation, alternative material qualification, and identifying cost productivity opportunities.

Responsibilities

• Lead value engineering projects from concept through commercialization.
• Partner with manufacturing engineering, product design, and production teams to improve material utilization in manufacturing.
• Collaborate with product management to benchmark competitor products, apply value engineering methods, and propose alternative design concepts.
• Interpret and apply ASTM and ICC specifications to ensure compliance with internal and external requirements.
• Actively support funnel-building activities.
• Develop design concepts, create detailed drawings, build prototypes, and validate changes internally and with key customers.
• Prepare test plans and design or build test equipment as needed.
• Conduct FEA on new and existing products, interpret results, and provide design improvement guidance.
• Conduct validation testing in the lab, on the production floor, and at installation sites.
• Collect and analyze test data, draw conclusions, and prepare test reports.
• Use Daily Management tools to track and report project progress.
• Apply GD&T principles to engineering drawings and maintain accurate design change records.
• Maintain and update BOMs and validation documentation.
• Work with suppliers to resolve DFM issues and maintain supplier quality throughout the change process.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to support smooth project execution and implementation.
• Other Tasks as may be assigned

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering with 1-3+ years of experience, or a master’s degree with 1+ year of experience.
• Internships in an engineering position will substitute for work experience.
• Experience applying value engineering methods to product design updates, cost reduction initiatives, and alternative design concepts.
• Proficiency with 2D drawings, 3D modeling (SolidWorks preferred), PDM, GD&T, tolerance stack-up, DFMEA, and related design tools.
• Design experience with sheet metal fabrication, plastic molding, casting, part design, mechanism design, and related manufacturing processes.
• Experience with FEA modeling, hand calculations, handbook methods, failure mode analysis, and testing methods used to quantify margin to failure.
• Ability to develop test procedures, conduct functional testing, interpret results, and correlate findings with product performance.
• Strong hands-on technical ability with a creative, out-of-the-box approach to solving unfamiliar problems.
• Self-directed, determined, and results-oriented, with a strong commitment to accountability, collaboration, and execution.
• Team-oriented with effective written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills, and the ability to build strong cross-functional relationships across the company.
• Ability to work under pressure in a fast-paced manufacturing environment, escalate risks, and overcome roadblocks.
• Strong computer skills, including Outlook, Word, and Excel, including spreadsheets and databases.
• Ability to travel overnight up to 10%.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• HSA and FSA plans available
• 401(K) with 50% company match up to 6%
• Paid Time Off – 3 to 5 weeks per year with weekly accruals starting day one
• Holidays - 11 Paid, eligible on day one
• Life/ADD Insurance and Short/Long Term Disability insurance with buy-up options
• Professional Development: Training programs, Tuition Reimbursement, and growth opportunities
• A supportive environment rooted in collaboration, integrity, and respect