Description

Responsible for providing leadership in the development of new products, implementing design-driven quality improvements, and improving the overall cost of our existing product lines through simplification and value engineering. Directs the teams that are responsible new product development from the designer’s sketch to approval of prototype model and then into production using the Flexsteel product development process. Develops and guides the efforts to find the most efficient ways to standardize and platform Flexsteel’s products. Actively consults with other engineering disciplines, procurement, and operations to achieve best total cost of our product lines – both new and existing.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Recognizes and values customers and fellow associates by:

A) emphasizing teamwork

B) possessing a customer-driven attitude

C) effectively achieving results by meeting mutually agreed upon goals

Manages and performs the following for the Product Design Engineering function:

· Reviews and prioritizes new projects and establishes a development program including a timeline for each

· Coordinates preliminary costing, development and sample making for new product introductions

· Provides input to our designers as needed in the development and finalization of new product styling

· Evaluates prototypes with the designer and staff to optimize the design to achieve the best total cost

· Research materials and/or methods and techniques to improve and update our products

· Works with our suppliers for proper application of components and mechanisms

· Provides regular updates on project progress to leadership and to other areas of the business, such as procurement, merchandising, operations, etc.

· Analyzes our competitors’ products and methods for potential improvements to Flexsteel product

· Selects and develops new and existing associates in order to grow our capabilities and bench strength

· Provide support during pilot runs for new collections

· Other duties as assigned by supervisor

· Travel to manufacturing facilities in Dublin, GA & Juarez, MX

As a manager, it is your responsibility to enforce the dress code, workspace, building guidelines, and all other Flexsteel policies for all employees under your direct supervision.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIRED:

• Bachelor’s degree in Design, Mechanical, Industrial Engineering, or related field from an accredited university or equivalent experience.
• Minimum of 5 years’ leadership experience in a fast-paced development or manufacturing environment
• Demonstrated ability in project management leading multiple projects simultaneously
• Proficient in Microsoft Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and Outlook
• Experience in solid modeling using a 3D CAD program
• Excellent written and oral communication skills
• Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to collaborate with other departments
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills

Preferred Qualifications:

• 5+ years of leadership experience in a fast-paced product development or manufacturing environment
• Experience in the furniture industry
• Experience using SolidWorks (3D CAD)

Qualifications

Experience

Required

5 years: Minimum of 5 years’ leadership experience in a fast-paced development or manufacturing environment

Preferred

Bachelor’s degree in Design, Mechanical, Industrial Engineering, or related field from an accredited university or equivalent experience