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Product Development Engineer Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Product Development Engineer - Software Troy, MI, USA Come build something that matters. It takes great people to achieve greatness. People with a sense of purpose and integrity. People with a ...

The Product Development Engineer will utilize strong technical and analytical skills to design, develop, and launch new industrial gearbox products and components. Responsibilities: * Applies ...

The Product Development Engineer will utilize strong technical and analytical skills to design, develop, and launch new industrial gearbox products and components. Responsibilities: * Applies ...

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Product Development Engineer information

See Michigan salary details

$34.4K

$76.6K

$115.5K

How much do product development engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for product development engineer in Michigan is $76,599.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $62,800.00 and $87,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Product Development Engineer do?

A Product Development Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and testing new products or improving existing ones. They work closely with cross-functional teams such as design, manufacturing, and marketing to bring innovative products from concept to production. Their tasks often include prototyping, conducting feasibility studies, addressing technical challenges, and ensuring that products meet quality and safety standards. Product Development Engineers play a crucial role in transforming ideas into market-ready products that fulfill customer needs.

What Is a Product Development Engineer?

A product development engineer designs manufactured goods by integrating market research to deliver products that will meet company goals. As a product development engineer, you will be working on all stages of the production process, from research and development to prototype testing and quality assurance. You may work in any number of fields, from the automotive industry or medical device manufacturing to developing new soaps or food products. Typically, you work as part of a team, sometimes leading a group of engineers through the design and production process. Your duties include creating drafts and blueprints, assessing proper materials, setting goals, and researching competitive products.

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

Product Development Engineers work closely with teams such as design, manufacturing, marketing, and quality assurance throughout the product lifecycle. They often facilitate communication to ensure that product specifications align with customer needs and production capabilities. Regular meetings and collaborative problem-solving sessions are common, as these engineers help translate technical requirements into actionable plans. This collaborative approach not only streamlines development but also fosters innovation and ensures the final product meets both technical and market expectations.

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

To thrive as a Product Development Engineer, you need a solid background in engineering principles, product design, and project management, typically supported by a degree in mechanical, electrical, or related engineering fields. Proficiency with CAD software, prototyping tools, and familiarity with product lifecycle management (PLM) systems are commonly required. Strong problem-solving abilities, creativity, and effective communication skills help you collaborate across teams and innovate solutions. These skills and qualities are essential for efficiently developing market-ready products that meet user needs and business objectives.

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

AspectProduct Development EngineerMechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Mechanical, Industrial, or related engineering; often some experience in product designBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering; licensure optional for certain roles
Work EnvironmentDesign labs, manufacturing settings, cross-functional teamsDesign offices, manufacturing plants, research labs
Industry UsageProduct design, consumer electronics, automotive, aerospaceMechanical systems, HVAC, manufacturing equipment, automotive

Product Development Engineers focus on designing and developing new products, often working closely with cross-functional teams to bring concepts to market. Mechanical Engineers have a broader scope, working on mechanical systems and components across various industries. While both roles require similar educational backgrounds, Product Development Engineers typically emphasize product design and innovation, whereas Mechanical Engineers may work on a wider range of mechanical systems.

What are the most commonly searched types of Product Development Engineer jobs in Michigan? The most popular types of Product Development Engineer jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Product Development Engineer jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Product Development Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Product Development Engineer job openings in Michigan as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $76,599 per year, or $36.8 per hour.
Product Development Engineer - Exteriors

Product Development Engineer - Exteriors

Minth North America

Wixom, MI • On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

Full-time

Posted 26 days ago


Minth North America rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Our Engineering team is expanding and looking to add a Product Development Engineer for our Plastics Business Unit. We are looking for a dynamic and driven candidate interested in being part of a fast-growing global company in the automotive sector.

The Product Development Engineer will lead the development of plastic injection molded parts such as fascias, spoilers, body side moldings, grilles, side appliques, license plate applique assemblies, or decorative lighting. The Product Engineer will take the program from inception through launch which will include design and development of the product, attending the customer meetings, keeping track of program open issues, creating and being responsible for GD&T, DFMEA, and DVP&R. This candidate will need to be able to work in a multinational, multicultural global setting. Other duties include:

  • Work with OEM to consult on the development of new plastic products to ensure that the product meets all requirements of the customer specifications, manufacturability, tooling feasibility and quality objectives
  • Resolve issues, and technical problems through the application of product knowledge of manufacturing process, engineering education, knowledge of industry practice and an awareness of new technologies
  • Direct and coordinate projects from design through production start-up, including prototype build, testing and establishment to specifications to achieve required performance and reliability, manufacturability and market competitiveness.
  • Document technical aspects of assigned projects and ensure that data is properly retained. Prepare technical presentations and visit customers, virtually or in person to address open issues, design reviews, or review proposals on an as needed basis.
  • Recommend design approaches and solutions to technical problems directly to customers on routine matters and obtain assistance from peers, other departments and engineering management on critical issues
  • Track new material, technique and technology development trends and validate their application in structures products and open Issues
  • Support gate review process.

To qualify for this role you must meet the following:

  • A bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Engineering, or a related is required; an advanced degree is highly desired.
  • Minimum 5 years of experience in developing automotive plastic injection molded parts. Strong need for those with fascia engineering or design experience.
  • Experience with front/rear fascias product design will be a plus
  • Desire a variety of experience in plastic injection molding including standard injection, compression injection, reaction injection molding (RIM - especially with PUR), or other new processes.
  • Understanding of assembly processes including joining technologies such as vibration, sonic, or laser welding as well as fasteners, clips, or molded snap features to support design for manufacturing.
  • Ability to work with CAD software (NX, CATIA) to design parts or review data, compare data, cut sections etc.
  • Strong working knowledge of GD&T, FMEA’s, DVP&Rs

Key to being successful in this role:

  • Ability to work in a global environment coordinating between North America, Europe and China
  • A high level of self-motivation and bias for action
  • Strong communication, presentation and organization skills
  • Good interpersonal skills and strong self-learning skills
  • An Innovative mindset

Why work for Minth? Here are the advantages of working at Minth.

  • International development platform
  • Dynamic and efficient team
  • All-round personal improvement
  • Diversified working atmosphere
  • Competitive compensation package

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