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Entry Level Product Development Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

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This entry-level role is ideal for someone looking to grow their career in manufacturing ... engineering, product development, sales, and customer service teams • Ensure all BOM and ...

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Entry Level Product Development information

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$13

$23

$40

How much do entry level product development jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level product development in Indiana is $23.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.42 and $24.95 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

Jobs that can pay $2,000 a day typically include high-level consulting, specialized medical procedures, certain executive roles, or freelance work in fields like software development or finance. These positions often require advanced skills, certifications, or significant experience, and may involve project-based or contract work with variable schedules.

What are some common challenges faced by entry-level professionals in product development, and how can they overcome them?

Entry-level professionals in product development often face challenges such as balancing multiple project priorities, quickly adapting to changing product requirements, and effectively communicating ideas within cross-functional teams. To overcome these challenges, it's helpful to stay organized by using project management tools, proactively seek feedback from more experienced colleagues, and actively participate in team meetings to improve communication skills. Embracing a growth mindset and being open to learning from setbacks will also help new product developers build confidence and advance in their roles.

What is the difference between Entry Level Product Development vs Entry Level Product Design?

AspectEntry Level Product DevelopmentEntry Level Product Design
Primary FocusCreating, testing, and refining products from concept to productionDesigning the visual and functional aspects of products
Required SkillsEngineering, prototyping, project managementSketching, CAD, user experience
Work EnvironmentManufacturing, R&D labs, cross-functional teamsDesign studios, collaborative teams, software tools
Common CertificationsEngineering degrees, CAD certificationsDesign software certifications, portfolio

Entry Level Product Development and Entry Level Product Design share overlapping skills like creativity and teamwork but differ mainly in focus. Product development emphasizes engineering and manufacturing processes, while product design centers on aesthetics and user experience. Both roles are essential in bringing a product from concept to market, often working closely together in the product lifecycle.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Product Development professional, and why are they important?

To excel in Entry Level Product Development, you need a background in product design, basic market research, and project management, often supported by a relevant degree such as business, engineering, or design. Familiarity with tools like Adobe Creative Suite, CAD software, and project management platforms (e.g., Jira or Trello) is commonly expected. Creativity, problem-solving, and strong teamwork are vital soft skills that help drive innovation and effective collaboration. These competencies ensure the successful creation, refinement, and launch of products that meet market needs and organizational goals.

What is an entry level product development job?

An entry level product development job involves assisting in the design, creation, and improvement of new products or features under the supervision of more experienced team members. Responsibilities often include conducting market research, creating prototypes, collaborating with cross-functional teams, and gathering user feedback. This role is ideal for recent graduates or individuals new to the field who are looking to gain experience in bringing ideas to market. Strong communication, problem-solving skills, and a willingness to learn are important for success in entry level product development positions.

What jobs can DT get you?

An entry-level product development role can lead to positions such as product coordinator, design assistant, or project associate. These jobs typically involve supporting the development process, working with cross-functional teams, and using tools like CAD software or project management platforms to bring products from concept to market.

How to start a career in product development?

To start a career in product development, gain relevant skills through a degree in engineering, design, or business, and develop knowledge of product lifecycle management and prototyping tools. Internships or entry-level positions can provide practical experience, and building a strong understanding of customer needs and market trends is essential for success in this field.

What jobs pay 10,000 a month without a degree?

Entry level product development roles typically do not pay $10,000 per month without significant experience or advanced skills. High-paying jobs that can reach this level without a degree often include sales, real estate, or skilled trades, but they usually require specialized knowledge, certifications, or a strong network. Most roles offering such income levels rely on performance-based compensation or entrepreneurship rather than entry-level positions.
What are the most commonly searched types of Product Development jobs in Indiana? The most popular types of Product Development jobs in Indiana are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Product Development jobs in Indiana? For Entry Level Product Development jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Indiana are hiring for Entry Level Product Development jobs? Cities in Indiana with the most Entry Level Product Development job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Product Development job openings in Indiana as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 60% Full Time, 33% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,343 per year, or $23.7 per hour.

enFocus Innovation Fellowship: Engineering Track

enFocus

South Bend, IN • On-site, Remote

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 27 days ago


Job description

For Mechanical & Industrial Engineers
Who We Are
enFocus is a nonprofit organization that brings an entrepreneurial focus to communities in the South Bend-Elkhart region by recruiting top talent, providing mentorship, and executing innovation projects with community and industry partners.
Through the Fellowship program, we empower early-career professionals to solve complex problems, launch new ideas, and help organizations innovate while accelerating their own careers.
Our Fellows collaborate with manufacturers, technology companies, startups, and civic institutions to implement solutions that improve efficiency, create new products, and strengthen regional industries.
Build Real Systems. Solve Real Problems. Explore Your Career.
Graduating with an engineering degree but not sure which path you want to take yet?
The enFocus Innovation Fellowship allows young professionals to build real-world experience across industries before committing to a single role. Instead of entering one company or one function immediately, Fellows work on multiple projects with regional manufacturers, startups, and civic organizations.
Over two years, you'll apply your engineering training to projects like manufacturing systems, product development, operations strategy, and technology implementation-while developing the leadership and business skills that engineers need to advance quickly.
Most entry-level engineering roles specialize you immediately.
At enFocus, you'll gain broad engineering and operational experience first, so you can discover where your skills and interests align.
During the Fellowship you will:
  • Work on multiple engineering and innovation projects simultaneously
  • Collaborate with manufacturers, startups, and technology teams
  • Apply engineering problem-solving to real operational challenges
  • Gain exposure to product development, operations strategy, and supply chains
  • Present solutions directly to executives and industry leaders
  • Spend up to 30% of your time launching your own product, technology, or startup

Think of it as a two-year engineering "rotation" across industries with leadership responsibilities from day one.
What You'll Do
As an Innovation Fellow, you'll work with enFocus Project Managers and industry partners to discover, design, and implement solutions for complex technical and operational challenges.
Most Fellows lead 1-3 projects at a time, depending on scope and stage.
Typical engineering activities include:
Discover
  • Analyze manufacturing and operational processes
  • Conduct stakeholder interviews with plant managers and operators
  • Collect and analyze production, quality, and supply chain data
  • Identify bottlenecks and improvement opportunities

Design
  • Map manufacturing processes and value streams
  • Develop product or technology implementation strategies
  • Design operational improvements and automation workflows
  • Create financial models, simulations, or engineering specifications

Implement
  • Deploy new technologies or digital systems
  • Support manufacturing process improvements
  • Manage vendor relationships and pilot programs
  • Train staff and evaluate project performance

Example Industry Projects
Engineering Fellows regularly work on projects like:
  • Manufacturing Process Optimization
    • Analyze plant operations, identify inefficiencies, and implement improvements that increase throughput and reduce costs.
  • Automation & Smart Manufacturing
    • Evaluate and implement automation technologies, robotics, or digital tracking systems to modernize operations.
  • Product & Market Research
    • Support product development initiatives by analyzing markets, supply chains, and production strategies.
  • Data & Operations Analytics
    • Use tools such as Python, PowerBI, Tableau, or SQL to analyze operational data and inform decision-making.

Build Your Own Innovation Project
All Fellows participate in Research, Development & Entrepreneurship initiatives.
You may spend up to 30% of your time working on projects such as:
  • Launching your own product or service
  • Collaborating with companies on federal R&D grants (SBIR/STTR)
  • Supporting early-stage startups in the region

This gives engineers a rare opportunity to test business or product ideas while maintaining a stable salary and mentorship support.
What You'll Gain
This Fellowship is designed to accelerate your development as an engineer and future leader.
You will gain:
  • Exposure to multiple industries and manufacturing environments
  • Experience leading high-impact technical projects
  • Mentorship from engineering leaders and executives
  • Professional development and certifications
  • Experience presenting technical recommendations to stakeholders
  • A network of industry leaders and entrepreneurs

Requirements
  • Bachelor's degree (Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or related engineering field)
  • Minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA
  • Ability to work full-time in the South Bend-Elkhart region
  • Reliable transportation for travel to sponsor locations

What We Look For
Successful engineering Fellows typically demonstrate:
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
  • Initiative and ownership in ambiguous situations
  • Leadership experience in academic or project environments
  • Interest in manufacturing, operations, product development, or supply chain
  • Curiosity about how systems, organizations, and businesses operate
  • Ability to communicate technical ideas clearly to non-technical audiences

Fellowship Details
Position: Full-Time Innovation Fellow
Program Length: Two Years
Location: South Bend-Elkhart Region (hybrid)
Compensation & Benefits
Year 1 Salary: $53,000 - $55,000 with performance-based increases
Additional benefits include:
  • $1,500 technology stipend
  • 14 paid holidays + 4 floating holidays
  • Two weeks paid time off + sick days
  • Health, dental, and vision insurance
  • Retirement contributions after one year
  • Professional development programming
  • Dedicated mentor aligned with your career interests
  • Up to 30% paid time for research, development, and entrepreneurship

Application Timeline
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis for immediate hires and the August 2026 Fellowship cohort.