Bachelor's in applied arts or equivalent experience
5 years of professional engineering experience leading development projects
Experience with designing and engineering upholstered chair frames and foam
Hands-on experience with frame construction and upholstery
Strong design and problem-solving abilities aligned with brand aesthetic
Experience collaborating in cross-functional teams
Responsibilities
Design 3D models and drawings using Creo/Solidworks
Manage product designs from concept to mass production
Build and validate prototypes to meet launch timelines
Create and maintain BOMs and SOPs for manufacturing
Prioritize craftsmanship and quality through DFM principles
Conduct product testing to meet quality standards
Evaluate material usage for cost optimization
Modify CAD drawings for manufacturing and purchasing needs
Lead 3D modeling and CAD activities for projects
Collaborate with a cross-functional product development team
Benefits
Opportunities for professional development and continuous learning
Collaborative teamwork environment
Engagement in innovative product development projects
Access to advanced design tools and technologies
Possibility to impact product quality and craftsmanship
Full Job Description
GENERAL PURPOSE:
Drive innovation in new product development and insourcing initiatives by collaborating with brand and design partners, as well as internal manufacturing teams, to engineer high-quality upholstered seating frames, foam, components, and upholstery solutions. Play a key role in bringing concepts to life through creative problem-solving, cross-functional teamwork, and manufacturing-focused design.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
Design and create 3D models and drawings (Creo/Solidworks) with minimal direction
Develop and manage new product designs from concept to mass production
Build and validate prototypes with internal and external partners toward a timely product launch strategy
Develop Bill of Materials (BOMs) and standard operating procedures (SOPs) for manufacturing
Design for highest level of craftsmanship and quality with Design for Manufacturing (DFM) principles
Conduct product testing to ensure compliance with highest quality standards
Design, engineer and evaluate material usage during development to optimize product costs
Make modifications to existing CAD drawings to support manufacturing and purchasing maintenance
Manage all 3D modeling and CAD activities within a project
Participates within cross functional product development team
Performs additional responsibilities as requested to achieve business objectives
EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE:
Bachelor's degree in applied arts preferred or equivalent education and professional experience
5 years of professional engineering experience with leading development projects
Experience designing and engineering plywood and solid wood upholstered chair frames and foam
Hands-on experience with frame construction, foam up and upholstery preferred with mature sense of comfort and feel
Proven design and problem-solving skills with a keen understanding of brand aesthetic
Proven experience working with cross-functional teams
SKILLS AND ABILITIES:
Demonstrated ability to effectively use office automation, communication, software and tools currently used in the office environment with a basic understanding of the current CAD systems used within the functional area (Creo preferred)
Exhibits high personal performance standards, the desire and ability to continuously learn and must be results oriented
Demonstrates excellent written and verbal communication skills, including professional presentation skills
Must be open to new ideas and technologies
Exhibits ability to work cooperatively both in a team environment and independently
Must be able to maintain a positive attitude in addressing concerns
Must be an assertive, self-starter with the self-confidence and ability to represent MillerKnoll in a professional manner to gain a high level of confidence from internal and external contacts
Must be willing to take ownership efficiently working to drive tasks to completion
Coordinate with suppliers and customer regarding technical specifications and product requirements
Ability to understand the corporation's values, goals and the objectives along with key financial drivers
Must be able to perform all essential job functions with or without accommodation
About MillerKnoll, Inc
MillerKnoll, Inc., doing business as Herman Miller, is an American company that produces office furniture, equipment, and home furnishings. Its best known designs include the Aeron chair, Noguchi table, Marshmallow sofa, Mirra chair, and the Eames Lounge Chair.