Level 1 Design Engineer

Full-time - Entry Level

Exton, PA

About the position

As a Level 1 Design Engineer, you will play a supportive role in the development and design of innovative products. You will gain hands-on experience in CAD modeling, design analysis, and collaboration with cross-functional teams. This role provides an excellent opportunity to learn and grow within a dynamic engineering environment.

Responsibilities

• Assist Level 2 and 3 Engineers in developing product concepts, focusing on understanding customer needs and industry trends.
• Create and modify 3D models and 2D technical drawings using CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, SolidEdge Inventor and AutoCAD) under guidance.
• Participate in preliminary design analysis and feasibility studies, learning about material selection and performance evaluation.
• Contribute to design reviews, incorporating feedback from senior engineers and other team members.
• Learn and apply the NPD process and APQP Core Tools such as DFMEA, FAI, and PPAP.
• Support efforts to optimize designs for manufacturability, learning how to minimize production costs while maintaining quality.
• Assist in collaboration with manufacturing teams to understand part geometries and improve manufacturing processes.
• Work on multiple projects simultaneously and bring them from concept to completion on-time and within budget.
• Learn how to evaluate and improve tolerance stack-ups to minimize assembly variation.
• Support process validation by assisting senior engineers in coordinating with suppliers and manufacturing.
• Assist in Value Engineering (VE) exercises to understand how to enhance product performance while minimizing costs.
• Learn to identify potential alternative materials, processes, or design features for cost savings.
• Assist in the creation of prototypes, ensuring they align with design specifications.
• Participate in testing and troubleshooting design issues, learning through iterative refinement.
• Document test results and assist in making necessary design modifications.
• Assist in generating and maintaining accurate technical drawings, bills of materials (BOMs), and engineering specifications.
• Learn about relevant industry standards (e.g., ISO, ASME, CE marking) and regulatory requirements.
• Assist in the documentation needed for patent applications when required.
• Collaborate with manufacturing, quality, supply chain, and commercial teams to support smooth product transitions.
• Participate in design failure mode and effects analysis (DFMEA) to learn about risk mitigation.
• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives to enhance product and process efficiencies.
• Promote a culture of safety and adhere to HSE regulations.
• Collaborate with sales and customer service to understand client quality concerns.
• Support United Safety’s PASSION values.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Product Design, or a related field.
• 0-2 Years’ experience in a design engineering role, preferably in a manufacturing environment.
• Basic proficiency in 3D CAD modeling and 2D drafting (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD, CATIA, CREO).
• Analytical mindset with the ability to diagnose and resolve complex issues.
• Commitment to quality and accuracy in all aspects of work.
• Strong interest in product design and development.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
• Basic knowledge of manufacturing concepts.
• Able to compile information for reports and decision making.
• Able to read and understand engineering drawings and manuals.
• Basic knowledge of Empirical and Metric hardware.
• Proficient in current computer software: MS Applications; PowerPoint, Word, Excel, and an understanding of MRP or ERP system; Syteline (Infor) experience a plus.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, ensuring error-free documents and effective interaction with internal and external contacts, utilizing tact, diplomacy, and professionalism.
• Able to perform in a fast-paced environment, while responding and adapting to change favorably and quickly.
• Safety is at the forefront of your mind when working and you follow all policies.
• You bring with you a positive attitude and the ability to work in a team environment.
• Help United Safety operate effectively by adhering to attendance and punctuality standards.
• Understand that you are part of a growing company, you have no concerns with and are able to work extended hours as needed as well as some Saturdays to support that growth.