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Design Engineer Jobs in Summerville, SC (NOW HIRING)

Freeman Boatworks is seeking a Design Engineer with direct marine vessel design experience to support the development of our high-performance composite catamarans. This role is responsible for ...

Freeman Boatworks is seeking a Design Engineer with direct marine vessel design experience to support the development of our high-performance composite catamarans. This role is responsible for ...

Description Freeman Boatworks is seeking a Design Engineer with direct marine vessel design experience to support the development of our high-performance composite catamarans. This role is ...

Mechanical Design Engineer

Summerville, SC ยท On-site

$68K - $92K/yr

The Mechanical Design Engineer utilizes knowledge, capabilities, and experience to support ongoing product improvements and to convert customer special requirements into technical product offerings ...

The Mechanical Design Engineer utilizes knowledge, capabilities, and experience to support ongoing product improvements and to convert customer special requirements into technical product offerings ...

Payloads Design Engineer

North Charleston, SC ยท On-site

$95K - $130K/yr

The Payloads Design Engineer is responsible to manage systems associated with airplane interiors including light limiting headers, closets, partitions, stow bins and wiring. The statement of work ...

Mechanical Design Engineer

Hanahan, SC ยท On-site

$68K - $93K/yr

Design, develop, and test all aspects of mechanical components, equipment, and machinery * Apply knowledge of engineering principles to design products such as engines, instruments, controls, robots ...

Mechanical Design Engineer

Hanahan, SC ยท On-site

$68K - $93K/yr

Design, develop, and test all aspects of mechanical components, equipment, and machinery * Apply knowledge of engineering principles to design products such as engines, instruments, controls, robots ...

Your Opportunity Stantec's growing transportation practice is looking for a Roadway Design Engineer. This role may sit in either Charleston, SC or Columbia, SC. Join our full-service team that is ...

We are seeking OSP Design Engineers to assist with the design and production of engineering deliverables on complex overhead and underground utility distribution projects. This position may require ...

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Design Engineer information

See Summerville, SC salary details

$36.3K

$79.1K

$142.2K

How much do design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for design engineer in Summerville, SC is $79,080.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $61,000.00 and $88,400.00 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 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 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 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.

What jobs can a design engineer do?

A design engineer creates and develops new products, systems, or structures across industries such as automotive, aerospace, electronics, and manufacturing. They use CAD software, perform simulations, and collaborate with teams to ensure functionality and safety. Design engineers often work in research and development, product design, or process improvement roles.

What are the most commonly searched types of Design Engineer jobs in Summerville, SC?

The most popular types of Design Engineer jobs in Summerville, SC are:

What are popular job titles related to Design Engineer jobs in Summerville, SC?

For Design Engineer jobs in Summerville, SC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Design Engineer jobs in Summerville, SC look for?

The top searched job categories for Design Engineer jobs in Summerville, SC are:

What cities near Summerville, SC are hiring for Design Engineer jobs?

Cities near Summerville, SC with the most Design Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Design Engineer job openings in Summerville, SC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $79,080 per year, or $38 per hour.

Design Engineer

Moncks Corner, SC โ€ข On-site

Freeman Boatworks
Ship and Boat Buildingย โ€ขย 201 - 500 employees

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago


Job description

Freeman Boatworks is seeking a Design Engineer with direct marine vessel design experience to support the development of our high-performance composite catamarans. This role is responsible for designing, engineering, and refining boat structures and components that move efficiently from concept into production.
The ideal candidate has a background in marine design and engineering, or hands-on boat design, and understands how designs translate to real-world boat building in a production environment. This is a highly collaborative, hands-on role where engineering decisions directly impact build quality, performance, and manufacturability.
What You'll Do
Conceptual Design
  • Contribute to the conceptual design of a boats composite large parts, small parts and structural components for production boats
  • Develop and refine layouts and structural concepts that consider performance, strength, weight, and manufacturability

Engineering Development
  • Create detailed 3D models, assemblies, and 2D / 3D layout drawings using CAD software (Rhino 3D)
  • Maintain accurate and production-ready engineering documentation
  • Create and document revisions of core & fiberglass kits, including CNC programming using CAM software (Rhino Cam) and updating build schematics
  • Creation of 3D printed parts to be used in production as jigs, fixtures or finished parts
  • Mold design - work closely with our in-house tooling department & outside composite tooling companies

Structural Analysis & Optimization
  • Evaluate structural performance under operational loading conditions
  • Identify and implement design improvements to enhance durability, stiffness, and overall boat performance

Materials & Construction
  • Select appropriate composite materials, cores, and laminates based on performance, durability, and cost considerations
  • Design with a strong understanding of composite boat-building methods and production constraints

Prototyping & Production Support
  • Support prototype builds, first articles, and ongoing production
  • Collaborate closely with manufacturing teams to resolve design and build challenges

Cross-Functional Collaboration
  • Work with manufacturing, procurement, quality, and leadership to ensure smooth integration of design into production
  • Incorporate feedback from the shop floor into continuous design improvements

What We're Looking For
  • Experience in Naval Architecture, Yacht Design, or a closely related marine-focused discipline
  • Demonstrated experience in Design Engineering within the marine industry
  • Strong understanding of composite boat construction
  • Proficiency in CAD / CAM software such as SolidWorks, Rhino 3D, Rhino Cam or similar platforms
  • Proven experience taking boat designs from concept through production
  • Strong problem-solving skills with a high level of attention to detail
  • Ability to work effectively in a hands-on, fast-paced production environment

What We Offer
  • Competitive compensation
  • Comprehensive benefits: medical, dental, vision, company-paid life & disability + more!
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Paid time off and holidays
  • A collaborative, people-focused workplace built on craftsmanship and innovation

Please note: Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a background check and drug screening.