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Snowboard Engineer Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Snowboard Engineer information

What is a snowboard engineer?

Snowboard Engineers are professionals who design, develop, and test snowboards and related equipment. They use their knowledge of materials science, mechanical engineering, and sports technology to create boards that enhance performance, safety, and durability. Their work involves working closely with athletes, manufacturers, and design teams to innovate and optimize snowboard features. Snowboard Engineers also analyze feedback and data to improve existing products and bring new ideas to the market.

What are some common challenges faced by snowboard engineers when designing new board models?

Snowboard engineers often face the challenge of balancing durability, weight, and performance when creating new board models. They must select materials and construction techniques that provide optimal flexibility and strength without adding unnecessary weight. Another challenge is integrating feedback from professional riders and adapting designs to suit different snow conditions and riding styles. Collaboration with designers, product managers, and manufacturing teams is essential to ensure the final product meets both safety standards and market expectations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a snowboard engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Snowboard Engineer, you need expertise in materials science, mechanical engineering, and product design, typically supported by an engineering degree and experience in sporting goods manufacturing. Familiarity with CAD software, rapid prototyping tools, and testing equipment is crucial for designing and evaluating snowboard prototypes. Creativity, problem-solving, and effective collaboration with cross-functional teams are important soft skills in this field. These skills ensure the development of innovative, high-performance snowboards that meet safety standards and market demands.

What is the difference between Snowboard Engineer vs Snowboard Designer?

AspectSnowboard EngineerSnowboard Designer
Required CredentialsEngineering degree, technical skillsDesign background, artistic skills
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, manufacturing facilitiesDesign studios, CAD software
Employer & Industry UsageSnowboard manufacturers, R&D teamsDesign firms, brand studios
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Snowboard Engineers focus on developing and testing snowboard technology, materials, and performance features, often working closely with R&D teams. Snowboard Designers concentrate on the aesthetic and conceptual aspects of snowboard design, creating visual concepts and patterns. Both roles are essential in the snowboard industry but differ in their technical versus artistic focus.

Infographic showing various Snowboard Engineer job openings in Michigan as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Craigs - Prototype Shop Technician I

Burton, MI

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description

The Breakdown:

Burton’s Prototype Shop Technicians are key team members of our Advanced Concept and Development Center Prototype Facility.  In this role, you will be responsible for over-all prototyping duties while concurrently bringing together prototyping, manufacturing, and technology. You will share your knowledge and experience in all aspects of the snowboard manufacturing process. You will have the opportunity to embrace and drive new manufacturing technologies and share your knowledge of alternative manufacturing processes.  

What You Get to Do:

  • Perform the physical labor to create snowboard prototypes, including lay-up, grinding, finishing, and procurement.  Complete a job request from start to finish, building to an engineering design request to meet the desired outcome.
  • Run and maintain equipment, including woodworking and metalworking machines like routers, shapers, sanders, and grinders.
  • Participate in the Burton Protoshop’s on-going desire for efficiency and innovation by bringing new ideas and manufacturing experience.
  • Be responsible for the “design for manufacturing” process. 
  • Utilize craftsmanship and hands to create new processes and prototypes. 
  • Utilize and share your experience in building snowboards and snowboard processing.
  • Utilize and share your experience in materials and construction.
  • Other duties may be assigned.

What You’ll Bring to the Team:

  • A depth of experience, knowledge and skill in a technical/functional area including materials, construction and manufacturing process.
  • Proven hands-on experience in manufacturing, materials, or product construction—ideally within the snowboard or hardgoods space.
  • A keen eye for quality, efficiency and attention to detail.
  • The ability to tackle a problem by using a logical, systematic, sequential approach.
  • The ability to develop, support, or sponsor the introduction of new and improved methods, products, procedures, or technologies that meet a customer need.
  • The ability and desire to work cooperatively with others to improve overall team performance. The ability to demonstrate desire, skill, and success in getting groups to work together.
  • The ability to methodically problem solve and to identify work to be done on a project and/or issues that may impede its completion; the ability to act before the situation requires it.
  • Bonus: the ability to read engineering requirements/CAD and translate into a design is a plus.
  • Bonus: knowledge of CNC machining, snowboard machinery, and programming is a plus.

Work/Physical Environment:

This is a mobile position, which will require walking and standing on the feet for the majority of the day in a manufacturing setting.  This position requires the ability to lift at least 25+lbs frequently.