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New Product Development Engineer Jobs in Indiana

Develop and execute test plans for existing products and new product development projects. * Create ... Product Development Engineering (Secondary Focus) * Assist with new product development and ...

Develop and execute test plans for existing products and new product development projects. * Create ... Product Development Engineering (Secondary Focus) * Assist with new product development and ...

Product Engineer, Tier 1

Berne, IN · On-site

$70K - $85K/yr

Overview: The Product Development Engineer - Level 1 supports the design and development of ... while contributing to new product development and sustaining existing product lines. Key ...

Product Engineer, Tier 1

Berne, IN · On-site

$70K - $85K/yr

Overview: The Product Development Engineer - Level 1 supports the design and development of ... while contributing to new product development and sustaining existing product lines. Key ...

Product Development Manager

Warsaw, IN · On-site

$110 - $140/hr

This role offers the opportunity to guide a talented engineering and design team, shape new product strategy, and influence the full development lifecycle--from concept through launch. Working ...

New

Showing results 21-40

New Product Development Engineer information

See Indiana salary details

$37.6K

$83.6K

$126.1K

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

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for new product development engineer in Indiana is $83,627.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $68,500.00 and $95,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a new product development engineer?

A New Product Development Engineer needs a solid background in engineering principles, product design, and project management, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with CAD software, prototyping tools, and experience with product lifecycle management (PLM) systems or Six Sigma certification are commonly required. Strong problem-solving abilities, creativity, and collaborative communication skills help these engineers excel in cross-functional teams. These competencies are crucial for successfully transforming innovative ideas into market-ready products while meeting technical, cost, and timeline goals.

What are some common challenges new product development engineers face during cross-functional collaboration?

New Product Development Engineers often work closely with teams in marketing, manufacturing, quality assurance, and supply chain. One common challenge is aligning diverse priorities—while engineering may focus on technical feasibility, marketing may emphasize customer features and speed to market. Effective communication and proactive problem-solving are essential for balancing these different perspectives and ensuring a smooth development process. Successful engineers build strong relationships across departments to streamline decision-making and anticipate potential roadblocks early.

What is the difference between New Product Development Engineer vs Product Design Engineer?

AspectNew Product Development EngineerProduct Design Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering, often with experience in product developmentBachelor's in Mechanical, Industrial, or related engineering fields
Work EnvironmentResearch and development labs, manufacturing settings, cross-functional teamsDesign studios, CAD environments, prototyping labs
Industry UsageProduct innovation, new market entry, R&D projectsProduct improvement, detailed design, prototyping

The main difference is that New Product Development Engineers focus on creating and launching new products from concept to production, while Product Design Engineers concentrate on designing and refining existing or new product components. Both roles require strong engineering skills and collaboration, but their primary objectives differ in scope and focus.

What does a new product development engineer do?

A new product development engineer designs, develops, and tests new products or improvements to existing products. They work closely with cross-functional teams, utilize engineering tools and prototypes, and often require knowledge of manufacturing processes and industry standards to bring concepts to market efficiently.

What are popular job titles related to New Product Development Engineer jobs in Indiana?

For New Product Development Engineer jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching New Product Development Engineer jobs in Indiana look for?

The top searched job categories for New Product Development Engineer jobs in Indiana are:

Infographic showing various New Product Development Engineer job openings in Indiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $83,627 per year, or $40.2 per hour.

Product Development Engineer - Soft Goods

Central Garden & Pet

Fort Wayne, IN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 16 days ago


Central Garden & Pet rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Central Garden & Pet

Based on 42 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7.4

Company rating compared to similar companies: 7.4 out of 10

Manufacturers average

Based on 75,610 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

The best things about working at Central Garden & Pet

  • 94%

    94% say it is easy to take sick days

    say it is easy to take sick days

  • 94%

    94% say they don’t worry about hours

    say they don’t worry about hours

  • 94%

    94% say they get paid breaks

    say they get paid breaks

Featured by Central Garden & Pet, based on 42 Breakroom Quiz responses from their frontline employees


Job description

Description

ABOUT THE COMPANY
Central Home Brands is a division of Central Garden & Pet, focused on designing and manufacturing soft goods (outdoor cushions, pillows, and pet products) for both Retail and eCommerce.
 
ABOUT THE ROLE
We’re building the next generation of outdoor and pet products—and we’re looking for a Product Development Engineer to help bring them to life. You’ll work hands-on with products, collaborate directly with manufacturing, and have real influence on how products are designed and produced at scale.
 
The Product Development Engineer will focus on engineering initiatives at our Fort Wayne, IN manufacturing facility, while working closely with cross-functional partners, including Product Development, Design, Sales, Operations, and Sourcing. The ideal candidate has experience in textile engineering and demonstrates a strong work ethic, flexibility, and attention to detail.  They will leverage their experience in product design, materials, manufacturing processes, and quality systems to ensure products meet performance, cost, and aesthetic requirements.
 
This position reports to the Director of Product Development and may be based in Bingham Farms, MI (Corporate) or Fort Wayne, IN (Manufacturing Plant). Domestic travel between 25% to 50% is required.
 
If you’re excited about building consumer products from concept to production in a collaborative, hands-on environment, we’d love to hear from you!
 
What You’ll Do
  • Engineer products from concept through validation, to enable volume manufacturing. This includes specification development, prototyping, and testing.
  • Lead projects or small teams within product engineering, with opportunities to grow into broader technical or people leadership responsibilities.
  • Leverage prior experience with textiles, soft goods, and sewing techniques to achieve the desired product goals.
  • Develop and maintain 3D product models and technical specifications to support domestic and international prototyping.
  • Identify opportunities for cost reduction, product improvement, and process optimization.
  • Partner cross-functionally with Product Development, Design, Item Setup, and Production teams to ensure engineering accuracy and alignment as products transition from development to production.
  • Manage technical documentation, item specifications, and product data within CAD and PLM systems.
  • Provide leadership input across Technical Services processes, with scope to take ownership of key areas such as engineering drawing specifications, bills of materials, routing set-up, cut layouts, packing guidance, rate evaluations, and standard operating procedures.
  • Maintain up-to-date knowledge of material technologies, manufacturing processes, and consumer product trends relevant to Technical Services and Product Development and actively share insights that inform team strategy and product decisions.
  • Contribute to additional projects and initiatives as business needs evolve. 
Professional Qualifications:
  • Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering
  • Minimum of 5 years of experience in textile engineering, soft goods, or a related field
  • Proven ability to lead teams or projects, with experience transitioning from individual contributor to first-level people leadership.
Required Skills:
  • Proficiency with CAD Software (Auto CAD, Turbo CAD, or similar)
  • Proficiency with 3D Modelling Software (Clo3D or similar)
  • Ability to create and interpret technical drawings, specifications, and BOMs
  • Strong competency in Microsoft Office Programs (Excel, Word, PowerPoint)
  • Highly detail-oriented, with the ability to manage accuracy while maintaining a big-picture perspective.
  • Flexibility to support special projects across Product Development Engineering, R&D, and Manufacturing beyond daily responsibilities.
  • Excellent communication skills (written, verbal, and visual) to describe technical details in a relatable way to a variety of audiences.
  • Excellent project management and organizational abilities
  • Strong understanding of materials used in soft goods: fabric, fiber, foam, etc.

Preferred Skills:

  • Experience using Product Lifecycle Management software
  • SAP experience
  • Familiarity with ASTM, ISO, or other relevant testing standards
  • Experience working with overseas manufacturing
  • Experience developing products for outdoor, pet, or home goods categories 
  • Experience with Packaging Engineering
  • Experience or prior work with electrical components (i.e. heating elements)

BENEFITS PACKAGE & EMPLOYEE PROGRAMS

  • Paid Time Off – Enjoy paid vacation days, holidays, and a floating holiday!
  • Top-Tier Health Coverage – Comprehensive health insurance benefits include medical, dental, vision, accident, disability, dependent life, and other voluntary options.  Our Health Savings Accounts (HSA) are available with a company-funded stipend.
  • Peace of Mind – Employer-paid Life Insurance
  • Secure Your Future – A competitive 401(k) plan with employer match to help you plan ahead.
  • Family First – Paid Parental Leave so you can focus on what matters most.
  • Grow With Us – We support your journey with Education Assistance for college degrees and professional certifications.
  • Career Advancement – Opportunities for career advancement and internal mobility.
  • Never Stop Learning – Unlock access to thousands of free online courses through our Learning & Development platform.
  • Celebrate You – Our Employee Recognition Programs spotlight your achievements and contributions.
  • Support When You Need It – Confidential Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for personal and professional support.
  • Perks Galore – Enjoy discounts on cell phones, movie tickets, gym memberships, and more!
Central Garden & Pet Company (NASDAQ: CENT) (NASDAQ: CENTA) is a leading consumer goods company in the pet and garden industries. Guided by the belief that home is central to life, the Company's purpose is to proudly nurture happy and healthy homes. For over 45 years, its innovative and trusted solutions have helped lawns grow greener, gardens bloom bigger, pets live healthier, and communities grow stronger. Central is home to a diversified portfolio of market-leading brands including Amdro®, Aqueon®, Best Bully Sticks®, Cadet®, C&S®, Farnam®, Ferry-Morse®, Kaytee®, Nylabone®, Pennington®, Sevin® and Zoёcon®. With fiscal 2025 net sales of $3.1 billion, Central has strong manufacturing and logistics capabilities supported by a passionate, entrepreneurial growth culture. The Company is headquartered in Walnut Creek, California, and employs over 6,000 people, primarily across North America. Visit www.central.com to learn more.
 
We are an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other characteristic protected by law.
#LI-MJ1

Working at Central Garden & Pet

Perks for frontline workers

From Central Garden & Pet, via Breakroom

  • Safety is a top priority!

  • Paid Vacation

  • Paid Holidays

  • Paid Sick Time

  • Paid Breaks

  • Consistent shift and schedule

  • Comprehensive Health Insurance

  • 401k with Company Match

  • Referral Program with Cash Bonus

  • Education Assistance

  • Paid Parental Leave

About Central Garden & Pet, in their own words

From Central Garden & Pet

Our leading consumer and professional brands provide forward-thinking, high quality products to care for your lawn, garden, pets and community. We are committed to helping lawns grow greener, gardens bloom bigger, pets live healthier and communities grow stronger.

Company values

From Central Garden & Pet

The Central Way | We Do the Right Thing | We Strive to be the Best | We are Entrepreneurial | We Win Together | We Grow Every Day | We are Passionate

Diversity and inclusion statement

From Central Garden & Pet

Central Garden & Pet is committed to building a great place to work that embraces diversity as a key pillar of our culture. This is a journey, and we are committed to listening, learning and doing the work to move forward together.


What Central Garden & Pet employees say

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