Plastic Product Development Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Position Overview

The Product Development Engineer – Outdoor Products applies mechanical engineering expertise, creativity, and analytical problem-solving to develop, improve, and sustain exterior products, including outdoor screens, awnings, and shading systems. This role supports new product development, cost and quality improvements, and sustaining engineering activities, taking designs from concept through production launch.
The engineer will work cross-functionally with Product Management, Process Engineering, Operations, Purchasing, Quality, and Suppliers to deliver robust, manufacturable designs that meet performance, durability, aesthetic, and regulatory requirements for outdoor environments.

What you'll do

• Design, analyze, and validate mechanical components, mechanisms, and assemblies for exterior products such as screens, awnings, frames, brackets, drive systems, and mounting hardware.
  • Develop solutions for new product introductions, product enhancements, and quality or field-related issues.
  • Use parametric 3D CAD tools (NX and/or SolidWorks) to create models, assemblies, and production drawings.
  • Design with consideration for outdoor environmental exposure including wind loads, UV, temperature extremes, moisture, corrosion, and long-term durability.
  • Define design requirements, test criteria, and validation methods to ensure safety, performance, durability, and compliance with applicable standards.
  • Conduct design reviews, tolerance stack-ups, DFMEA, and statistical analysis to ensure design robustness.
  • Plan and execute functional, durability, and life-cycle testing; analyze test data and recommend design improvements.
  • Perform root cause analysis using data-driven methods and implement corrective actions.
  • Coordinate prototype builds, pilot runs, and production launches.
  • Lead or support tooling development, approve first article inspections, and drive design-for-manufacturing efforts.
  • Collaborate with fabrication and operations teams to ensure designs are manufacturable, serviceable, and cost-effective.
  • Utilize rapid prototyping methods, including 3D printing, to validate and refine designs.

• Mechanical systems and mechanisms (gears, pulleys, linkages, clutches, cams)
• Plastic injection-molded components
• Aluminum and plastic extrusions
• Metal stampings, die castings, and machined parts
• Structural components and assemblies for outdoor use
• Design for durability, corrosion resistance, and weather exposure

Who you are

Education & Experience
• Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering (BSME) required or equivalent experience.
• Experience designing mechanical components and assemblies for consumer or architectural products preferred.
• Experience with exterior or outdoor products is a strong plus.
Technical Knowledge & Skills
• Solid knowledge of mechanical engineering principles including statics and dynamics.
• Proficiency with NX and/or SolidWorks CAD software.
• Knowledge of plastic injection molding and extrusion design.
• Familiarity with metrology tools and statistical analysis methods.
Abilities & Competencies
• Strong mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects with minimal supervision.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong collaboration and continuous learning mindset.

• Combination of office and production floor environment.
• Frequent computer use and hands-on work with components.
• Occasional lifting, climbing ladders, and handling of large exterior product assemblies during testing.
• Exposure to light manufacturing environments including noise, dust, and test equipment.

What's in it for you?

• Annual base salary range: $97000- $120,000
• Bonus target range: 20%-25%
• Generous benefits package including medical, dental, vision, life, disability
• A company culture that prioritizes internal development and professional growth
• Time off with pay 
• 401(k) plan with a degree of employer matching
• Paid parental leave
• Wellness programs and product discounts

Please note, all offers presented to candidates are carefully crafted to ensure market competitiveness, equity, and reflect the individual candidate’s education, experience, skills and potential.
Hunter Douglas is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with applicable employment laws. EOE/M/F/Vet/Disabled are encouraged to apply.

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