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Lead Product Development Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

DISHER

Design Engineer

Zeeland, MI

Lead the design, development, and validation of mechanical assemblies and product systems ... Apply mechanical engineering principles such as mathematical modeling, FMEA, DVP&R, and ...

DISHER

Design Engineer

Zeeland, MI · On-site

Lead the design, development, and validation of mechanical assemblies and product systems ... Apply mechanical engineering principles such as mathematical modeling, FMEA, DVP&R, and ...

nLIGHT

Product Development Engineer

Camas, WA

Lead the technical development of diode laser-based packages from concept into production ... Bachelors degree in Engineering (Optical, Electrical, Chemical, Mechanical, Physics) or similar ...

Orbotech

Product Development Engineer

Hillsboro, OR

$80K - $137K/yr

This role partners closely with Intel fab engineering, KLA internal R&D, and crossfunctional teams ... Lead rootcause analysis and structured problem solving for product and process issues * Collaborate ...

nLIGHT

Product Development Engineer

Camas, WA

$90K - $115K/yr

Lead the technical development of diode laser-based packages from concept into production ... Bachelors degree in Engineering (Optical, Electrical, Chemical, Mechanical, Physics) or similar ...

nLIGHT

Product Development Engineer

Camas, WA · On-site

$90K - $115K/yr

Lead the technical development of diode laser-based packages from concept into production ... Bachelors degree in Engineering (Optical, Electrical, Chemical, Mechanical, Physics) or similar ...

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All JobsLead Product Development Engineer Jobs

Lead Product Development Engineer information

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$39.5K

$87.9K

$132.5K

How much do lead product development engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for lead product development engineer in the United States is $87,884.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $72,000.00 and $100,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Lead Product Development Engineers in high-demand industries such as technology, aerospace, and biotech can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and leadership responsibilities. Compensation often includes base salary, bonuses, and stock options, reflecting their strategic impact and technical expertise.

How does a Lead Product Development Engineer typically collaborate with cross-functional teams during the product lifecycle?

A Lead Product Development Engineer regularly works closely with cross-functional teams, including design, manufacturing, quality assurance, marketing, and supply chain departments. This collaboration ensures that product requirements are clearly understood, technical challenges are addressed efficiently, and deliverables meet both customer and business expectations. Effective communication and project management are essential, as the Lead Engineer often facilitates meetings, integrates feedback, and aligns teams to maintain project timelines and quality standards. Cross-functional teamwork is especially critical during key phases such as prototyping, testing, and product launch.

What does a lead product engineer do?

A lead product development engineer oversees the design, development, and testing of new products, guiding engineering teams to meet project goals. They coordinate cross-functional efforts, ensure technical feasibility, and often use tools like CAD software and project management platforms. Strong technical skills, leadership ability, and experience in product lifecycle management are essential for this role.

What is the difference between Lead Product Development Engineer vs Product Development Engineer?

AspectLead Product Development EngineerProduct Development Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Engineering, relevant certifications often preferredBachelor's or Master's in Engineering or related field
Work EnvironmentLeads teams, collaborates across departments, oversees project executionDesigns, develops, and tests products under supervision
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in tech, manufacturing, and engineering firms for senior technical rolesCommon in similar industries for entry to mid-level roles

The Lead Product Development Engineer typically holds a senior technical position, overseeing product development teams and projects, while the Product Development Engineer focuses on designing and testing products under guidance. The lead role involves more leadership and strategic responsibilities, whereas the engineer role emphasizes technical execution.

What is the salary for NPD engineers?

Lead Product Development Engineers typically earn a salary ranging from $90,000 to $140,000 annually, depending on experience, industry, and location. They often require strong technical skills in product design, project management, and familiarity with development tools. Salaries may also include bonuses and benefits based on company policies.

What does a Lead Product Development Engineer do?

A Lead Product Development Engineer oversees the design, development, and testing of new products from concept to production. They coordinate cross-functional teams, manage project timelines, and ensure products meet both technical and market requirements. Additionally, they solve engineering challenges, mentor junior engineers, and communicate progress to stakeholders. Their role is critical in bringing innovative products to market efficiently and effectively.

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

To thrive as a Lead Product Development Engineer, you need expertise in engineering principles, product design, and project management, typically supported by a bachelor's or master's degree in engineering and relevant experience. Familiarity with CAD software, product lifecycle management (PLM) systems, and agile development methodologies is essential. Strong leadership, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help you guide teams and collaborate across functions. These skills ensure innovative products are delivered on time, meet quality standards, and align with business objectives.

What engineers make $500,000?

Lead Product Development Engineers in high-demand industries such as technology, aerospace, or biotech can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and leadership responsibilities. Compensation often includes base salary, bonuses, and stock options, particularly in large or successful companies.
More about Lead Product Development Engineer jobs
What states have the most Lead Product Development Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Lead Product Development Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Lead Product Development Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Lead Product Development Engineer jobs are:
Lead Product Development Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lead Product Development Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 96% Full Time, 1% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $87,884 per year, or $42.3 per hour.
Product Development Engineer

Product Development Engineer

Nemco Food Equipment

Hicksville, OH • On-site

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago

Job description

About Nemco Food Equipment
Nemco Food Equipment is a leading innovator in foodservice equipment, delivering practical, high-performance solutions that help operators prepare signature menu items faster, more consistently, and more efficiently. At Nemco, we pride ourselves on designing equipment that works in real-world environments-balancing innovation with reliability, manufacturability, and ease of use. Our team is driven by a commitment to continuous improvement, customer-focused design, and developing solutions that create measurable value for our customers.
Position Overview
We are seeking a Product Development Engineer to lead the development of new, organically generated product concepts from idea through commercialization. This role plays a key part in expanding Nemco's product portfolio by identifying opportunities, developing innovative solutions, and bringing them to market efficiently and effectively.
Key Responsibilities
  • Lead the design and development of new products, from concept through production launch.
  • Drive organic product initiatives aligned with market needs.
  • Collaborate cross-functionally (Production, Quality, Sales, Customer Service, Service).
  • Design, prototype, test, and validate systems.
  • Develop and execute lab testing.
  • Improve existing products for cost and performance.
  • Research new materials and technologies.
  • Troubleshoot product issues.
  • Manage project timelines and budgets.
  • Ensure compliance with UL, ETL, NSF standards.

Work Hours: Mon-Fri 7am-4pm or 8am-5pm
Requirements
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
  • 5+ years in product development.
  • Full product lifecycle experience.
  • Experience with sheet metal, casting, injection molding.
  • Mechanical/electrical systems understanding.
  • SolidWorks proficiency.
  • Strong project management and problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to manage multiple projects.
  • Strong communication skills.
  • Experience in the food service industry is preferred

Salary Description
Compensation is based on experience

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