Associate Product Engineer

Job Summary:

The Associate Product Engineer is an entry-level role supporting the design, development, validation, and launch of transportation safety products and systems. This role focuses on building technical fundamentals, applying engineering principles, and gaining practical experience in CAD, prototyping, development, and testing. The Associate Product Engineer contributes to team-based projects and develops professional skills in collaboration, documentation, and continuous improvement.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities/ Essential Functions:

• Assist in developing new or improved safety products using the Stage-Gate process.
• Create and update CAD models, drawings, and documentation for assigned components.
• Support prototype builds, sample preparation, and lab testing under guidance of senior engineers.
• Collect and analyze test data with supervision, documenting results in compliance with engineering standards.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with Testing, Manufacturing, Quality, Purchasing, and Program Management teams to meet project time, cost, and performance goals and to gain exposure to engineering processes.
• Contribute to team discussions, provide status updates, and practice effective communication, ensuring confidentiality and security of proprietary designs, data, and customer information
• Support continuous improvement efforts related to design, cost, and reliability and perform other support duties as assigned.
• Contribute to APQP and PPAP activities to ensure successful program launches and customer approvals.

Skills & Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive, Electrical, or equivalent with 0-2 years of experience, including internship or co-op. (Associate’s degree with 3+ years relevant experience may be acceptable)
• Certifications or training in product development, quality systems, or engineering tools (preferred).
• Proficient in component design through Solidworks or equivalent CAD software.
• Familiarity with design tools such as DFMEA, DVP&R, APQP, and PPAP.
• Understanding of automotive safety and compliance standards (FMVSS, SAE, ISO).
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and time management skills.
• Effective verbal and written communication with the ability to convey technical ideas clearly and the ability to work under supervision.
• Demonstrated team collaboration skills and adaptability in a fast-paced environment.

Required Tools:

• Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Teams, Outlook)
• ERP/PLM systems (e.g. Oracle, SAP, Fusion, EPDM)
• CAD software (e.g. SolidWorks)
• Basic understanding of engineering design and analysis tools (DFMEA, DVP&R, GD&T, tolerance stack-up, root cause analysis)

Physical Requirements:

• Prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
• Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds occasionally.
• Ability to visually inspect and interpret designs on screen and in print.
• Use of functional Core Tools

Working Conditions/Environment:

• This work is deadline-oriented, requires multitasking, fluctuating work schedule, and flexibility within the workday.
• Frequent use of a computer and other office equipment is necessary.
• Requires the ability for close vision, distance vision and depth perception.
• Requires working and interacting with others, both in person and through phone, electronic, and written correspondence, and the ability to listen effectively, communicate clearly, maintain attention to detail, and perform focused work.
• When in the warehouse, this position requires working with dirt/dust and noise. The use of a variety of proper PPE is required to provide a safe working environment.
• This position requires working with various temperature conditions.

Compensation Classification:

FLSA Status: Exempt (subject to review based on actual job duties and compensation)