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Surface Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Oberg Industries

Surface Grinder

Freeport, PA · On-site

Strong ability to read and interpret engineering blueprints * Working knowledge of algebra ... Oberg Surface Grinders are among the best trained in the industry, supported by a culture of ...

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Surface Engineer information

What is a surface engineer?

Surface engineers are professionals who specialize in modifying and optimizing the surfaces of materials to enhance their performance, durability, and functionality. They work with coatings, treatments, and advanced materials to protect surfaces from corrosion, wear, or environmental damage. Surface engineers play a key role in industries such as aerospace, automotive, electronics, and energy by improving the lifespan and efficiency of components. Their work often involves research, testing, and the application of new technologies to solve complex surface-related challenges.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a surface engineer?

To thrive as a Surface Engineer, you need a strong background in materials science, surface chemistry, and engineering principles, typically supported by a degree in engineering or a related field. Familiarity with analytical tools such as scanning electron microscopes (SEM), atomic force microscopes (AFM), and surface characterization software is important, along with certifications in materials analysis or relevant quality standards. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are valuable soft skills for collaborating with multidisciplinary teams and addressing technical challenges. These competencies are crucial for developing advanced surface solutions, ensuring product quality, and driving innovation in various industries.

What are some typical challenges surface engineers face when working on materials for high-performance applications?

Surface Engineers often encounter challenges related to optimizing surface properties such as hardness, corrosion resistance, and wear without compromising the material's overall integrity. Balancing cost-effective solutions with advanced surface treatments can also be demanding, especially when working under tight project deadlines. Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams—including materials scientists, mechanical engineers, and manufacturing specialists—is essential to ensure that surface modifications align with broader product requirements and quality standards.

What is the difference between Surface Engineer vs Coatings Engineer?

AspectSurface EngineerCoatings Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, or related fields; certifications like NACE or SSPCBachelor's in Chemical Engineering, Materials Science; similar certifications in coatings and corrosion
Work EnvironmentIndustrial facilities, manufacturing plants, research labsCoating application sites, manufacturing, quality control labs
Industry UsageOil & gas, aerospace, automotive, manufacturingProtective coatings, paints, corrosion prevention in similar industries

Surface Engineers focus on the overall surface treatment and material properties, while Coatings Engineers specialize in applying and developing protective coatings. Both roles often overlap in industries like aerospace and manufacturing, sharing similar credentials and work environments.

What states have the most Surface Engineer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Surface Engineer jobs include:

Surface Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Surface Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution.

3D Surface Engineer

Winnebago Industries, Inc.

Nappanee, IN • On-site

$70 - $110/hr

Other

Posted 5 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Develop high-quality Class-A surfaces and 3D digital models that embody design intent, brand identity, and user experience goals.

  • Translate sketches, concept renderings, and 2D layouts into refined 3D digital forms using Autodesk Alias.

  • Collaborate closely with designers, engineers, suppliers, production teams, and leadership to evolve concepts into production-feasible designs while maintaining design integrity.

Winnebago Industries rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 17 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

357th of 499 rated machine equipment manufacturers

Job description

If you are unable to complete this application due to a disability, contact this employer to ask for an accommodation or an alternative application process.

Full Time Nappanee, IN, US

3 days ago Requisition ID: 2722

A Little About Us:

Operating since 1968, Newmar Corporation has been helping customers explore the outdoor lifestyle, enabling extraordinary mobile experiences as they travel, live, work, and play. Newmar has been synonymous in the RV industry with luxury, quality, and innovative motor coaches. In every part of our company, we relentlessly pursue continuous improvement and enhanced productivity, driving out waste, and creating meaningful strategic differentiation. Newmar is part of Winnebago Industries, Inc. a leading U.S. manufacturer of outdoor lifestyle experiences under the Winnebago, Newmar, Grand Design, Chris-Craft, and Barletta brands.

At Newmar Corporation, we’ve been crafting luxury motor coaches since 1968 — helping people live, work, and explore in comfort and style. As part of Winnebago Industries, we’re backed by a family of leading outdoor lifestyle brands.

We’re driven by innovation, quality, and continuous improvement — and we’re looking for passionate individuals who want to grow, make an impact, and be part of something extraordinary. Ready to hit the road with us?

Primary Objective of Position

We are seeking a highly creative and detail-oriented Surface Designer to drive the design development of vehicle Exterior and Interior. This role is centered on shaping compelling design solutions and translating design intent into high-quality digital surfaces.

The ideal candidate brings strong expertise in 2D and 3D digital design environments, with proficiency in Autodesk Alias, Onshape, and Teamcenter, along with advanced digital visualization, storytelling, and presentation skills. This position plays a key role in defining the aesthetic, form language, ergonomics, and user experience for vehicles across the automotive, heavy truck, and RV industries.

Key Areas of Responsibility
  • Develop high-quality Class-A surfaces and 3D digital models that embody design intent, brand identity, and user experience goals.
  • Translate sketches, concept renderings, and 2D layouts into refined 3D digital forms using Autodesk Alias.
  • Create compelling digital visualizations, renderings, and presentations to communicate design ideas clearly to internal stakeholders and leadership.
  • Collaborate closely with designers, engineers, suppliers, production teams, and leadership to evolve concepts into production-feasible designs while maintaining design integrity.
  • Ensure consistency of form language, proportions, and surface quality across vehicle components including exteriors, interiors, and key touchpoints.
  • Utilize Teamcenter PLM to organize and manage design data, ensuring clean structure, traceability, and efficient workflow.
  • Demonstrate strong organizational and time planning skills to manage multiple design iterations, reviews, and project timelines effectively.
  • Produce clear, visually driven design documentation and concise reports to communicate progress, rationale, and decision-making.
  • Participate actively in design reviews, contributing insights on aesthetics, usability, manufacturability, and overall design quality.
Key Attributes
  • Strong sense of form, proportion, and surface quality, with a refined eye for detail
  • Strong understanding of Class-A surfacing, design intent, and form development
  • Advanced digital visualization and visual storytelling skills (rendering, presentation, design communication)
  • Creative problem-solving ability with a passion for design innovation
  • Excellent organizing skills with the ability to manage complex design data and workflows
  • Effective time management and prioritization skills in a fast-paced, iterative design environment
  • Strong communication skills, with the ability to clearly present design concepts
  • Ability to balance creative vision with technical constraints and business objectives
  • Experience collaborating in multidisciplinary teams
  • Familiarity with vehicle design trends, materials, and production considerations
Education & Experience
  • 3+ years of surface design experience in automotive, heavy truck, RV, or related industries
  • High proficiency in Autodesk Alias for surface modeling
  • Experience with Autodesk VRED or similar visualization tools strongly preferred
  • Experience with Teamcenter or similar PLM systems
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