Design Engineer

Job Summary

The Design Engineer position requires a robust knowledge of engineering principles, paired with strong planning and design skills, to support product development and enhancement goals.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Apply engineering principles such as heat transfer and fluid dynamics to support the development of high-quality water heating products.
• Design water heater parts and subassemblies that meet the fit, form, and functional requirements of the final assembly.
• Conduct and delegate lab tests to support product development and performance enhancement projects.
• Analyze data in accordance with government and industry standards using engineering and statistical methods.
• Support agency approval projects by conducting or overseeing standardized tests and managing file updates.
• Work closely with vendors to develop new components from concept through approval.
• Create 3D models and 2D drawings of new and existing products using SolidWorks.
• Document design changes using the Engineering Change Notice (ECN) procedure and support manufacturing implementation.
• Collaborate with an interdisciplinary team to implement new products into production.
• Provide technical assistance to Product Support and Sales Managers.
• Provide engineering support to process improvement teams in manufacturing.

Additional Duties and Responsibilities

• Provide engineering support to Bock's sister company, Tank Technology, Inc.
• Assist with Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to illustrate proper assembly and testing methods for water heaters and components.
• Develop programs for the LabVIEW data acquisition system for product testing.
• Troubleshoot production quality issues.
• Attend at least one job-related training per year.

Supervisory Responsibilities

None

Working Conditions

• Typical office and testing environment.
• Travel to conferences and trade shows required.
• Frequent standing, bending, kneeling, or crouching in a lab environment.
• Occasional weekend or evening work and overnight travel may be required.

Education and Experience

• Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering required.
• 3-5 years of experience in mechanical engineering or a related field required.
• Strong technical understanding of thermodynamics, heat transfer, and fluid dynamics required.
• Strong mechanical aptitude required.
• Intermediate proficiency in AutoCAD and SolidWorks to produce accurate drawings.
• Experience with CFD simulation preferred.
• Familiarity with LabVIEW data acquisition systems preferred.
• Experience interpreting and applying construction and performance standards preferred.
• Basic knowledge of plumbing, appliance venting, and electrical wiring preferred.
• Knowledge of government and industry standards preferred.
• Basic knowledge of combustion preferred.
• Understanding of communication principles and practices.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and MRP-related software.

Skills and Abilities

• Maintain a high degree of confidentiality.
• Perform mathematical calculations and analyze statistical data with a high degree of accuracy.
• Communicate clearly and effectively, selecting appropriate content and delivery methods.
• Demonstrate sound decision-making by analyzing data and considering outcomes.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects and priorities.
• Ability to plan and achieve goals, including sequencing tasks and estimating timelines.
• Strong problem-solving skills, including identifying issues, evaluating solutions, and implementing action plans.
• Ability to participate in and facilitate group meetings.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills for presentations.
• Ability to follow procedures while constructively and diplomatically challenging ideas.

Behavioral Characteristics and Communication

• Demonstrate confidence and knowledge while remaining approachable.
• Apply and promote best practices.
• Communicate honestly and respectfully.
• Maintain composure in stressful situations.
• Represent the company positively to the public and colleagues.
• Work cooperatively with enthusiasm and a positive attitude.
• Demonstrate a commitment to continuous learning and professional growth.

Key Cultural Competencies

• Adaptability: Flexible and receptive to change.
• Approachability: Listens attentively and responds appropriately.
• Collaboration: Actively engages others to achieve goals.
• Ethics and Integrity: Upholds strong ethical standards and addresses misconduct.
• Personal Accountability: Takes responsibility for actions and learns from experiences.
• Trust and Respect: Demonstrates reliability, openness, and respect for all employees.

About the Company

Bock Water Heaters, a subsidiary of Bradford White Corporation, is 100% employee-owned. The company's success is driven by its dedicated owner-employees. We remain strong, innovative, responsible, and financially sound while manufacturing a complete "Made in America" product.

Employee ownership extends beyond financial participation-it includes a shared responsibility to improve processes, products, and people. We seek individuals who are engaged, enthusiastic, collaborative, and motivated to grow and be challenged.