Product Development Engineer

Job Description

Job Description

Why Dakkota

For over 24 years, Dakkota Integrated Systems has delivered excellence through precision-engineered, build-to-order vehicle components from cockpits to fascia assemblies. Our award-winning team combines advanced lean manufacturing, strong product development, and a highly efficient supply chain to meet customer demands with reliability and innovation.

If you're looking for a company that empowers you to grow while driving excellence, collaboration, and innovation to create real impact, we’d love to meet you.

The role

We are seeking a strategic and technical Product Development Engineer to lead our efforts in product innovation and development. This multifaceted role encompasses responsibilities across conceptual design, product refinement, and validation, contributing directly to the transformation of ideas into market-ready solutions. From the initial concept through product launch, the position plays a critical role in ensuring that products meet market needs, consumer expectations, and business objectives.

The ideal candidate is an innovative, data-driven leader with a passion for engineering excellence and a commitment to fostering a culture of continuous improvement and cross-functional collaboration. This role requires close partnership with teams across the organization to ensure products are delivered on time, within budget, and to specification, bridging the gap between creativity and practical execution.

What You’ll Do

• Product Development & Lifecycle Management: Lead and execute the full product development lifecycle—from concept through production and post-launch support. Ensure all product and process development activities align with production feasibility and meet key targets for timing, investment, cost, performance, safety, and quality. Responsibilities include conceptualizing, designing, prototyping, and testing new products to ensure they meet defined specifications and performance standards.
• Engineering Analysis & Design Validation: Apply advanced engineering and mathematical principles to solve complex design challenges using tools such as CAE and CFD. Conduct tolerance stack-up studies to ensure dimensional accuracy and functional performance of assemblies. Develop and execute comprehensive validation plans, including Design Verification (DV) and Process Verification (PV), to ensure product reliability, compliance, and performance standards.
• Technical Documentation & Specifications: Develop and maintain accurate engineering documentation, including drawings that adhere to GD&T standards and product/process requirements. Manage key technical records such as Bills of Materials (BOMs), Component Technical Descriptions (CTDs), and other essential documentation. Ensure all engineering activities are thoroughly recorded and maintained in compliance with company standards.
• Manufacturing Integration & Feasibility: Collaborate closely with manufacturing teams to ensure designs support efficient production, assembly, and operational performance (DFM&A). Identify and implement design and process specifications that optimize cost, quality, and manufacturability. Responsibilities include developing prototype parts and tooling mock-ups, leveraging technologies such as 3D printing where appropriate.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Lead cross-functional teams in the development of DFMEA and support the engineering change process. Make informed tactical decisions by analyzing data, evaluating alternatives, and considering organizational impact. Serve as a role model by fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation, and alignment with company values.
• Innovation & Technology Research: Research and evaluate emerging technologies and industry trends, including Industry 4.0, IoT, AI analytics, augmented reality, machine learning, additive manufacturing, and simulated design validation techniques. Apply innovative solutions to enhance product development and engineering capabilities, driving continuous improvement and technological advancement.
• Compliance, Safety & Other Duties: Adhere to all company safety protocols, including emergency procedures, to maintain a safe and compliant work environment. Support organizational goals by fulfilling additional responsibilities as assigned by management, contributing to operational excellence and team success.

Who you are

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Product Development, Mechanical, Electrical, or Manufacturing).
• 2–3 years of relevant engineering experience.
• Certified in Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing (Basic & Advanced), Root Cause Analysis, and Lean/Kaizen/6 Sigma principles.
• Proficient in CAD software and Microsoft Office Suite (AutoCAD, Project, Excel, PowerPoint, Word).
• Strong knowledge of design simulation tools and root cause analysis methods.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Self-driven, adaptable, and capable of working independently or in teams with minimal supervision.

Life at Dakkota

Our success is rooted in meaningful relationships and a culture that feels like family. We champion compassion, respect, and work-life balance, while supporting each team member’s personal and professional growth. Through ongoing development, competitive pay, and a comprehensive benefits package, we empower our people to thrive both at work and in life.

Explore everything we have to offer at Dakkota Careers!