Design Engineer - Grand Rapids Area

Design Engineer | Grand Rapids, MI

Salary Range: $69,000 - $108,000 depending on experience

Are you a dynamic leader with a passion for creating innovative product designs and solving engineering challenges? The Pivot Group is dedicated to building meaningful connections and supporting community growth. We are collaborating with leading companies in Grand Rapids seeking experienced Design Engineers to drive results.

The Opportunity

We are partnering with organizations in Grand Rapids that are seeking Design Engineers. These companies are committed to building strong teams and are looking for professionals who can lead initiatives effectively. By connecting with Pivot Group, you position yourself for roles that match your background and aspirations.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and develop new products, components, or systems from concept to production.
• Create detailed 2D and 3D CAD models, assemblies, and technical drawings.
• Apply principles of Design for Manufacturability (DFM) and Design for Assembly (DFA) to optimize designs.
• Select appropriate materials and manufacturing processes for cost, performance, and reliability.
• Develop and maintain comprehensive product documentation, including Bills of Material (BOMs) and specifications.
• Collaborate with manufacturing, production, quality, and supply chain teams to ensure successful product launch.
• Conduct design reviews and implement feedback to refine product designs and resolve engineering issues.
• Support manufacturing operations by troubleshooting design-related production issues and implementing corrective actions.

Recommended Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Design, or a related engineering discipline.
• Proficiency in 3D CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD, CATIA, Creo) and PDM systems.
• 3+ years of experience in product design, DFM (Design for Manufacturability), and DFA (Design for Assembly) within a manufacturing environment.
• Strong understanding of materials science, mechanical principles, and various manufacturing processes (e.g., machining, injection molding, sheet metal).
• Demonstrated ability to apply GD&T principles, perform tolerance analysis, and conduct design validation.

Bonus Qualifications

• Hands-on experience with prototyping, assembly, and testing of physical products.
• Proficiency with advanced simulation tools (e.g., FEA, CFD) for performance optimization.
• Knowledge of Lean manufacturing principles or Six Sigma methodologies.
• Experience with specific niche manufacturing processes (e.g., injection molding, additive manufacturing, advanced welding techniques).
• Basic project management experience or certification.

Job Titles That Should Apply

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

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.