OEM Sr. Product Design Engineer

Company Overview:

As a global leader in performance filtration and air intake systems, K&N Engineering thrives on innovation, quality, and collaboration. We develop cutting-edge OEM components—performance air filters, intake kits, exhausts and related systems—for automotive manufacturers worldwide. If you're ready to lead complex product initiatives with real impact, we want you on our team.

Position Overview:

K&N's OEM Sr. Product Design Engineer will drive the mechanical design and engineering of performance intake and exhaust systems for OEM customers from concept, through development, and into production. This role requires strong 3D CAD skills, collaborative design practices, a solid foundation of engineering principles and experience applying Design for Manufacturability (DFM) principles in a fast-paced, high-volume manufacturing environment. Knowledge and passion for the automotive industry is a plus.

Key Responsibilities:

• Design and Development: Use CAD software (SolidWorks) to generate 3D models, and detailed 2D engineering drawings, incorporating GD&T, to develop BOMs, and component specifications

• Design for Manufacturing: Apply DFM principles while working with manufacturing engineering, quality, procurement, and suppliers to validate tooling, materials, and production methods (e.g., injection molding, metal stamping, welding) as well as execution of PPAPs prior to production

• Prototyping and Testing: Design prototypes and validate physical units via testing (e.g., durability, fit, flow characteristics) in collaboration with lab and validation teams

• Project Management: Participate in design reviews and use concurrent engineering practices to optimize time-to-market and address design issues early while communicating with management to ensure timely delivery of projects

• Analysis and Simulation: Utilize computational tools (e.g., FEA, flow simulations) to analyze mechanical strength, air flow, and performance during design iterations

• Issue Resolution: Lead structured problem-solving efforts (e.g., 8D reports, root cause analysis, DOE) to resolve design and production challenges

• Collaboration: Work cross functionally with both customers and internal team members to communicate and ensure project objectives are met both during development and production

• Innovation: Stay current with industry trends and emerging technologies to contribute to the continuous improvement of our design processes and products

Essential Duties & Responsibilities:

• Oversee and manage projects from inception to completion
• Work with the engineering, manufacturing quality and purchasing teams to achieve the timing and deliverables of projects
• Work with Purchasing to plan/order components and raw materials based on project timelines
• Complete PPAP documentation for all OEM customers
• Create project plans and timelines as needed including length of programs and estimated volumes
• Closely monitor project progress and adjust as needed to ensure the overall goal stays on track
• Provide technical support and guidance to other team members, customers and suppliers