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Product Development Engineer Jobs in Fort Wayne, IN

Supplier Development Engineer

Fort Wayne, IN ยท On-site

$75K - $100K/yr

The Supplier Development Engineer (SDE) is responsible for ensuring the capability, quality, and ... Support new product introduction (NPI) by engaging suppliers early in the design phase for ...

Senior Mechanical Design Engineer

Columbia City, IN ยท On-site

$82K - $113K/yr

This role independently leads engineering projects, supports new product development initiatives, and collaborates with cross-functional teams to ensure designs meet performance, quality, cost, and ...

Showing results 21-40

Product Development Engineer information

See Fort Wayne, IN salary details

$36.1K

$80.4K

$121.2K

How much do product development engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for product development engineer in Fort Wayne, IN is $80,400.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $65,900.00 and $91,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 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.

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 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 popular job titles related to Product Development Engineer jobs in Fort Wayne, IN?

For Product Development Engineer jobs in Fort Wayne, IN, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Product Development Engineer jobs in Fort Wayne, IN look for?

The top searched job categories for Product Development Engineer jobs in Fort Wayne, IN are:

Infographic showing various Product Development Engineer job openings in Fort Wayne, IN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $80,400 per year, or $38.7 per hour.

Quality Engineer- New Product Development- Onsite

Fort Wayne Metals Research Products Corp.

Fort Wayne, IN โ€ข On-site

$66K - $85K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 26 days ago


Job description

Description
We're glad you're exploring our Quality Engineer- New Product Development position and want to share some of the details.
At Fort Wayne Metals, we specialize in producing top-quality wires, cables, and assemblies designed to enhance and safeguard lives. Our products are used in everything from our customers' stents and surgical robots to aircraft and automobiles. At our essence, we are thinkers, innovators, and problem solvers, leveraging our knowledge of materials to create customized solutions for our customers.
Join us in our dedication to making a tangible impact through our advanced materials and superior products.
Overview
The Quality Engineer will serve as a Quality Control (QC) and Quality Assurance (QA) resource for the Operations, Sales, Engineering, and Quality departments and to Customers to ensure adherence to Customer requirements, regulatory requirements, and Fort Wayne Metals' (FWM) quality system requirements.
Education & Experience Requirements
  • Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering or related field and equivalent demonstrated skills and abilities required.
  • American Society for Quality (ASQ) Certified Quality Engineer (CQE) or other recognized professional certification preferred.
  • Six Sigma Black Belt certification preferred.
  • 3 years of Quality experience required.

Job Responsibilities
  • Work within the company policies and customer guidelines to manage the quality control and assurance aspects of production and testing. Make recommendations for changes as appropriate.
  • Responsible for the application of Customer and FWM quality requirements. This includes updating procedures, work instructions, and forms and reviewing customer specifications.
  • Design and refine methods for process control, process improvement, testing and inspection. Conduct analysis, design test equipment and complete research to determine effectiveness of methods. Work with Quality Manager on change implementation.
  • Serve as a resource to supervisors, engineers, operations, and the Quality Team for problem identification, resolution, loss reporting and continuous improvement.
  • Educate employees on the FWM quality policy, including creating materials and delivering training. Answer questions regarding company quality policy and technical issues.
  • Lead and participate in internal, external, customer, and regulatory quality audits.
  • Act as communication liaison to management regarding quality metrics, quality problems, trends, losses, and recommendations for quality improvement.
  • Remain current on developments in quality testing methodologies including technology enhancements; attend periodic seminars, forums, and meetings; corrective action verification.
  • Investigate customer returns including root cause determination and corrective action implementation. This includes direct customer contact through conference calls and on-site visits.
  • Perform other duties as requested by management.

Skills Needed
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Capable of self-checking for completeness and accuracy of work produced.
  • Ability to learn and understand key product characteristics and machine/process capabilities.
  • Ability to effectively establish rapport (internally & externally) to present information, influence change and respond to questions from customers.

Working Conditions & Physical Requirements
  • Fast paced office environment.
  • Work hours consist of 45 hours per week.
  • Overtime may sometimes be necessary.
  • Some travel is expected (10%).
  • Must be able to travel between various facilities.
  • Majority of time spent at desk working on computer.
  • Must be able to access all areas of operation, including second floors.
  • Occasional lifting up to 50 pounds.
  • Some time is spent standing, walking, lifting, and bending.
  • Maneuver around, under, and about factory/laboratory equipment on a regular and continuous basis.

Benefits & Wellness Resources
The health and wellbeing of Fort Wayne Metals is a critical part of our culture. In addition to offering medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance options to suit your needs, we'd like to share some of the other fundamental resources that make Fort Wayne Metals a premier place to work:
Physical Wellness
  • Parkview Wellness Coach
    • Ready to assist with your physical and nutritional wellness needs.
  • Gym Facilities
    • 4 onsite gym locations as well as discounts for regional gym facilities
  • Health Challenges
    • From pickleball tournaments, sponsored races and sports leagues, to participating in the YMCA's Corporate Challenge, we have a variety of fun ways to stay active.

Mental Wellness
  • When You Need to Talk
    • 5 sessions of counseling are available to you and all members of your immediate household at no cost.
  • Relaxing Time-Off
    • Qualify for Paid Time Off and Holiday Pay on your first day of employment.

Social Wellness
  • Epic Events
    • From TinCaps Night to family days at the zoo, we offer multiple activities throughout the year for employees and their families.
  • Employee Resource Group
    • A voluntary, employee-led group formed to bring employees together and centered around a common interest or identity.

Professional Wellness
  • Grow Your Career
    • We offer many opportunities to continue your development and growth.
  • Performance Feedback
    • Receive regular and constructive feedback from your manager and peers to help you grow and improve.

Financial Wellness
  • Annual Profit Sharing & 401k matching
    • Dropping dollars into your 401k. When you contribute 7%, we'll contribute 3.5%.
  • Quarterly Bonus
    • When we perform well, everyone benefits! Receive discretionary bonuses each quarter based on company performance.
  • Tuition Reimbursement
    • Getting your first degree? Great! Whatever your major, we'll help pick up the tab!
  • Your Money Line
    • Employer-provided 1:1 financial guidance, education, & tools - so you can stress less about money and enjoy greater stability & confidence.

There are many reasons to apply for this position, and these are just a few. Join us!
This job position may require access to controlled technology or technical data; applicant must be a candidate for export licensing and willing to participate in export licensing, if required.
As an Equal Opportunity Employer, Fort Wayne Metals Research Products LLC is proud to be committed to providing an environment that is free from discrimination and harassment based on race, age, creed, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, sex, gender, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or pregnancy and will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. Fort Wayne Metals is an equal opportunity employer fully committed to achieving a diverse workforce and complies with all Federal and Indiana State laws, regulations, and executive orders regarding non-discrimination.
Fort Wayne Metals Research Products LLC is committed to providing access and reasonable accommodation in its services, activities, programs, and employment opportunities in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and other applicable laws. If reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application, interview process, or to perform essential job functions, please contact Accessibility@fwmetals.com.
Notice to Employees and Applicants
New to the area? Fort Wayne is a wonderful place to live, work and play. Check out some of the great things our region has to offer!
  • Greater Fort Wayne Inc. | Building a Nationally Recognized Economy
  • The Fort Wayne Visitors Center
  • Relocating - NEI