A Product Development Manager is responsible for developing new products by identifying potential markets or requirements, perhaps by conducting market research. Determines the product requirements, specifications, production timetables and pricing. introduction. May also develop marketing strategies.
The Product Design Engineering Manager will lead a team overseeing a specific portion of standard product offerings to maintain the production schedule. This role emphasizes ownership, standardization, continuous improvement, and ongoing support for existing product platforms, ensuring designs are both manufacturable and cost-effective, while meeting compliance standards and scalability requirements. Collaboration with other Senior Engineering Managers overseeing sub-teams within the department is essential to ensure consistency and effective execution across the product portfolio, while also supporting functions such as Manufacturing, Warranty, Customer Service, and occasionally Sales. This position involves managing and developing staff while maintaining a hands-on approach with regular on-site involvement. It requires a combination of strong leadership skills, technical expertise, and close collaboration with manufacturing, sales, quality, and supply chain teams. Job Duties & Responsibilities of the
Product Design Engineering Manager:
Lead, develop, and oversee a team of product design engineers supporting production and in-market products Manage product architectures, standards, and design intent for heavy haul trailer platforms Prioritize and assign engineering work based on production needs, product enhancements, cost reduction initiatives, and feedback from the field Serve as the engineering lead for sustaining engineering, product changes, and platform evolution (non-NPD) Ensure engineering support for production, addressing design, quality, and manufacturability issues promptly Collaborate with Manufacturing Engineering and Production to improve welding, fabrication, assembly methods, BOM accuracy, drawings, and release quality Lead design reviews, approve engineering changes, and oversee ECN/ECO execution for timely and well-documented product modifications Ensure compliance with FMVSS, DOT, and internal engineering and quality standards Utilize DFMEA, lessons learned, and feedback to enhance durability, safety, and product reliability Drive design-for-manufacturing, design-to-cost, and continuous improvement initiatives Support sales, service, and operations through clear engineering guidance and technical explanations Maintain and improve engineering documentation, databases, and design tools Assist in developing and implementing standardized, pre-engineered product offerings to streamline custom engineering demands and enhance schedule adherence Education & Experience Requirements of the
Product Design Engineering Manager:
Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field Experience in heavy haul trailers, heavy equipment, or fabricated mobile equipment Strong background in mechanical systems, structures, hydraulics, and manufacturing processes Proven experience supporting products in production settings Practical, hands-on engineering judgment Strong problem-solving and root-cause analysis skills Excellent written and verbal communication skills Ability to balance cost, performance, manufacturability, and reliability Proficiency with CAD tools, Excel, and engineering data systems
