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Design Engineer Jobs in Appleton, WI (NOW HIRING)

RFA Engineering

Mechanical Design Engineer

Green Bay, WI · On-site

$65K - $95K/yr

Design Engineer Mechanical Design Engineer will be responsible for the concept and development of structural, electrical, and hydraulic components. Key responsibilities include creating CAD models ...

raSmith

Transportation Design Engineer - Hybrid

Appleton, WI · On-site

$75.60K - $93.10K/yr

Enhance your career at raSmith as a Transportation Design Engineer in our Transportation Services division and discover why we're ranked #2 as a Top Workplace. raSmith is a growing multi-disciplinary ...

raSmith

Transportation Design Engineer - Hybrid

Appleton, WI · Hybrid

$75.60K - $93.10K/yr

Description Enhance your career at raSmith as a Transportation Design Engineer in our Transportation Services division and discover why we're ranked #2 as a Top Workplace. raSmith is a growing multi ...

raSmith

Transportation Design Engineer - Hybrid

Appleton, WI · Hybrid

$75.60K - $93.10K/yr

Description Enhance your career at raSmith as a Transportation Design Engineer in our Transportation Services division and discover why we're ranked #2 as a Top Workplace. raSmith is a growing multi ...

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Design Engineer information

See Appleton, WI salary details

$39.5K

$86K

$154.7K

How much do design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of May 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for design engineer in Appleton, WI is $86,010.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $66,300.00 and $96,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Is a Design Engineer?

Design engineers develop ideas for new products and determine ways to improve existing products. As a design engineer, you put a creative perspective on your technical engineering knowledge to perform your job duties, which include creating sketches of design ideas and using Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software to generate plans for prototypes. To ensure the product is viable, you also evaluate other aspects of the product design, such as safety, cost, sustainability, aesthetics, and user experience. You collaborate with a team of technicians and other engineers to run tests, troubleshoot problems, and ultimately produce a newly designed product.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Design Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Design Engineer, you need a solid background in engineering principles, CAD software proficiency, and a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with tools like SolidWorks, AutoCAD, and simulation software, along with certifications such as Professional Engineer (PE), are commonly required. Creativity, problem-solving, and effective communication are standout soft skills for collaborating with teams and translating ideas into workable designs. These abilities ensure innovative, efficient, and manufacturable solutions that meet both technical and client requirements.

How does a Design Engineer typically collaborate with other departments during a project?

Design Engineers regularly work alongside teams such as manufacturing, quality assurance, and product management to ensure that designs are both innovative and feasible for production. Collaboration often involves participating in cross-functional meetings, reviewing prototypes, and incorporating feedback from various stakeholders. This teamwork is essential to address technical and practical challenges early in the design process, which ultimately helps in delivering a successful product to market. Strong communication and adaptability are key skills for thriving in this collaborative environment.

What does a Design Engineer do?

A Design Engineer is responsible for creating and developing new products, systems, or structures by combining engineering principles with creative design. They use computer-aided design (CAD) software to produce detailed drawings and specifications, working closely with other engineers and teams to ensure functionality, safety, and cost-effectiveness. Design Engineers are involved in every stage of product development, from initial concept through prototyping, testing, and final production. Their work often requires problem-solving skills, technical knowledge, and the ability to communicate ideas clearly.

What is the difference between Design Engineer vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectDesign EngineerMechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering, Design certifications often preferredBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering, Professional Engineer (PE) license optional
Work EnvironmentDesign offices, CAD software, project planningManufacturing plants, labs, fieldwork, CAD and testing
Employer & Industry UsageProduct design firms, automotive, aerospace, consumer goodsManufacturing, automotive, aerospace, energy sectors

Design Engineers focus on creating and developing product designs using CAD tools, while Mechanical Engineers often work on the broader application, testing, and manufacturing of mechanical systems. Both roles require engineering degrees, but Design Engineers typically emphasize design skills and software proficiency, whereas Mechanical Engineers may engage more in analysis and system integration.

More about Design Engineer jobs
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What are popular job titles related to Design Engineer jobs in Appleton, WI? For Design Engineer jobs in Appleton, WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Design Engineer jobs in Appleton, WI look for? The top searched job categories for Design Engineer jobs in Appleton, WI are:
What cities near Appleton, WI are hiring for Design Engineer jobs? Cities near Appleton, WI with the most Design Engineer job openings:
Design Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Design Engineer job openings in Appleton, WI as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 90% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 94% In-person, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,010 per year, or $41.4 per hour.

Senior Design Engineer

Fire System Design Works

Appleton, WI

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

SENIOR DESIGN ENGINEER – FIRE SPRINKLER (On-site | Appleton, WI)


Looking for a role where your designs make a real impact? Join us in creating fire protection systems that safeguard lives and property. Be part of a team that values innovation, safety, and professional development.


Overview:


Fire System Design Works LLC, a sister company to Sentinel Safety & Security LLC, is rapidly growing and looking to expand its team to include an additional Senior Design Engineer in Appleton, WI. We are a leading provider of fire protection systems, with a rich history spanning over 30 years in the industry.


The Senior Design Engineer is responsible for designing fire protection systems, ensuring quality and compliance at every step, and coordinating cross-functionally with sales and operations teams.


What you receive:


  • An exciting opportunity where innovation meets impact!
  • Competitive salary.
  • Full benefit package including health, dental, vision, life, disability, and other insurance products as well as a 401k plan with match, PTO and holiday pay.


Senior Design Engineer Responsibilities:


  • Design commercial fire sprinkler systems for diverse industries
  • Perform hydraulic calculations for assigned projects
  • Partner with sales, purchasing, fabrication, installation, and service teams to deliver compliant, high-quality designs on schedule
  • Coordinate independently with engineers, contractors, and AHJs
  • Ensure designs comply with state and local water-based fire sprinkler standards
  • Conduct site reviews and building surveys as needed
  • Submit plans to general contractors and owners in accordance with project specifications
  • Finalize fabrication methods with key stakeholders
  • Prepare final shop drawings with all required details
  • Generate material lists for completed designs
  • Assemble the foreman’s package with all required forms and paperwork
  • Complete all required closeout documentation


Senior Design Engineer Qualifications:


Required:

  • 5+ years of current fire sprinkler design experience
  • Comprehensive knowledge of NFPA standards 13, 13R, 13D, 14, 20, and 25
  • Design experience in AutoSPRINK or HydraCAD
  • Understand code compliance and local AHJ requirements for standard systems
  • Able to complete BIM coordination
  • Proficient in mathematical concepts such as geometry, fractions, and measurement
  • Aptitude to read and interpret documents such as blueprints, codes, standards, specifications, safety rules, and operating and maintenance instructions
  • Strong analytical and critical thinking skills
  • Effective communication skills, both in person and electronically
  • Proven ability to manage time effectively and maintain strong organization
  • Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite


Preferred:

  • NICET certification preferred


  • Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite


If you are a motivated individual with a passion for precision, please apply here. We look forward to meeting you!


Our mission statement reflects our purpose: “Your life safety is our life’s work”


Fire System Design Works, LLC and Sentinel Safety & Security LLC are Equal Opportunity Employers

Apply