Design Engineer - Rockford Area

Design Engineer | Rockford, MI

Salary Range: $75,000 - $114,000 depending on experience

Are you a seasoned professional with a passion for creating innovative product designs and solving engineering challenges? The Pivot Group is committed to fostering meaningful relationships and supporting community growth. We are collaborating with leading companies in Rockford seeking Design Engineers to lead and enhance their operations.

The Opportunity

We are collaborating with multiple companies in Rockford seeking experienced Design Engineers. These organizations value long-term fit and are looking for professionals who bring both skill and alignment. By joining our network, you gain access to opportunities tailored to your goals.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and refine product designs, components, and assemblies using CAD software.
• Conduct design analysis and simulations to validate performance and optimize designs.
• Create detailed engineering drawings, specifications, and Bills of Material (BOMs).
• Collaborate with manufacturing teams to ensure designs are optimized for manufacturability and assembly.
• Manage the prototyping, testing, and validation of new designs and design changes.
• Investigate and resolve design-related issues, implementing corrective and preventive actions.
• Select appropriate materials and manufacturing processes based on design requirements, cost, and performance.

Recommended Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Design, or a related technical field
• Proficiency in 3D CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, Inventor, CATIA)
• Strong understanding of manufacturing processes (e.g., machining, injection molding, sheet metal fabrication)
• Experience with Design for Manufacturability (DFM) and Design for Assembly (DFA) principles
• Knowledge of material science and selection for various mechanical applications
• Ability to apply Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) standards

Bonus Qualifications

• Experience with Finite Element Analysis (FEA) or other simulation tools.
• Familiarity with Lean Manufacturing principles or Six Sigma methodologies.
• Hands-on experience with prototyping, fabrication, or shop floor activities.
• Proficiency in scripting or automation tools for CAD software (e.g., Python, VBA).

Job Titles That Should Apply

Product Design Engineer, Mechanical Design Engineer, CAD Engineer, R&D Engineer, Product Development Engineer, Industrial Designer, Senior Design Engineer, Engineering Designer

Why Pivot Group

The Pivot Group was founded by manufacturing professionals who've been on both sides of the hiring process. Our clients are strategic—they partner with us because they want real insight into their roles and the people filling them, not a stack of resumes. We focus on match-driven placements built around what actually matters: Commute, Compensation, Culture, and Career trajectory.

If you're ready to take the next step in your career and connect with a firm that values fit over speed, we invite you to reach out. The Pivot Group offers resources to support your search—market insights, resume feedback, and interview preparation. As our partnerships grow, we'll reach out with opportunities aligned with your goals. Thank you for considering this approach to career advancement.