Product Development Engineer - Upholstery

Why join us? 

Our purpose is design for the good of humankind. It’s the ideal we strive toward each day in everything we do. Being a part of MillerKnoll means being a part of something larger than your work team, or even your brand. We are redefining modern for the 21st century. And our success allows MillerKnoll to support causes that align with our values, so we can build a more sustainable, equitable, and beautiful future for everyone.

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 technical drawings (Creo/SolidWorks) with minimal direction.
• Develop and manage new product designs from concept through mass production.
• Build and validate prototypes with internal and external partners to support timely product launches.
• Develop Bills of Materials (BOMs) and standard operating procedures (SOPs) for manufacturing.
• Apply Design for Manufacturing (DFM) principles to ensure high levels of craftsmanship and product quality.
• Conduct product testing to ensure compliance with quality and performance standards.
• Engineer and evaluate materials during development to optimize cost and performance.
• Modify existing CAD drawings to support manufacturing and purchasing updates.
• Manage all 3D modeling and CAD activities within assigned projects.
• Collaborate effectively within cross-functional product development teams.
• Coordinate with suppliers and customers on technical specifications and product requirements.
• Performs additional responsibilities as requested to achieve business objectives.

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Education/Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in applied arts, Engineering, Product Design, or related field preferred; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Minimum of 5 years of professional engineering experience, including leading product development projects.
• Experience designing upholstered seating, including plywood and solid wood frames and foam applications preferred.

Skills and Abilities

• Proven design, engineering, and problem-solving skills with a strong understanding of brand aesthetics.
• Hands-on experience with frame construction, foam application, and upholstery preferred.
• Ability to lead development projects and drive work from concept through completion.
• Experience working cross-functionally in a collaborative environment.
• Proficiency with CAD systems (Creo preferred) and standard office software tools.
• Strong verbal, written, and presentation communication skills.
• High personal performance standards with a results-oriented mindset.
• Ability to continuously learn and adapt to new technologies and processes.
• Self-starter with strong ownership, accountability, and follow-through.
• Ability to maintain a positive and professional approach when addressing challenges.
• Strong business acumen with an understanding of company goals and financial drivers.
• Ability to represent MillerKnoll effectively with internal and external stakeholders.
• Must be able to perform all essential functions of the position with or without accommodations.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions

Must be able to perform all essential functions of the position with or without accommodations.

Who We Hire?

Simply put, we hire qualified applicants representing a wide range of backgrounds and abilities. MillerKnoll is comprised of people of all abilities, gender identities and expressions, ages, ethnicities, sexual orientations, veterans from every branch of military service, and more. Here, you can bring your whole self to work. We’re committed to equal opportunity employment, including veterans and people with disabilities.

MillerKnoll complies with applicable disability laws and makes reasonable accommodations for applicants and employees with disabilities. If reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and/or to receive other benefits and privileges of employment, please contact MillerKnoll Talent Acquisition at  [email protected].