Associate Engineer

Company Description

At Lakeshore, we create innovative learning materials and world-class guest experiences for teachers, parents and children. Since 1954, we’ve grown into a global community—with a thriving e-commerce business, multiple catalogs, 60+ retail stores, a peerless national sales force, plus international offices that support our preeminent supply chain division. But today we’re working better, smarter and faster than ever—and setting our sights even higher. We’re building an infrastructure designed for scalability, embracing data-driven decision-making and using technology to improve efficiency and ensure the best tools for the best work. Most importantly, we continue to invest in a diverse team of inquisitive top talent who fuel each other’s passions and curiosity, take risks, try new things, and believe that every new day brings opportunities for growth.

Job Description

In a time of unprecedented expansion, we are seeking an Associate Engineer, Furniture to join our team. In this role, you will support the mechanical design of new and existing Lakeshore furniture products. The position requires performing CAD designs, product teardowns and analysis, and engineering prototype development. The role also requires building proof-of-concept and engineering prototypes. Applicants should have experience working in a fast-paced, cross-functional environment. The ideal candidate is proficient in SolidWorks CAD software with a demonstrated ability to create intricate 2-D and 3-D designs and assemblies. 

A day in the office looks like this: 

• Support senior-level engineers in the mechanical design of new and existing furniture products; adhering to project timelines and product cost targets 
• Create/revise 3-D CAD designs and 2-D manufacturing drawings of parts and assemblies, including Bills of Materials 
• Ensure 2-D manufacturing drawings include sufficient detail including material specs, finishes, critical dimensions, note callouts and tolerances 
• With support of senior engineers, run simulation analysis on 3-D models before prototyping  
• Build proof-of-concept and engineering prototypes 
• Deconstruct product samples (Lakeshore or competitors) and document information, including but not limited to construction methods, material identification and dimensional measurements 
• Perform various functions as applicable to design, including material research and selection, hand calculations and tolerance stack-ups 
• Attend and support engineering design reviews and cross-functional product development meetings; offer feedback and recommendations, as applicable  
• Support Sr. level engineers in the mechanical design of new and existing furniture product and adhering to project timelines and product cost targets 

Qualifications

Got the skills and experience? Here’s what we’re looking for:

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or other technical discipline 
• 2 years of experience in product development, ideally in furniture design 
• Proficient in SolidWorks CAD software with a demonstrated ability to create intricate 2D and 3D designs and assemblies 
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills 
• Knowledge of ASME Y14.5 dimension and tolerance standards and experience in FEA simulation software a plus 
• Team player with strong communication and interpersonal skills, demonstrating a positive and can-do attitude 
• Creative and detail-oriented, takes initiative and has a strong desire to learn  
• Ability to work in a fast-paced cross-functional manufacturing organization, multitask and balance priorities 
• Highly accountable to self and others, drives closure of tasks and completes quality work on time 

Additional Information

And here’s our end of the bargain! 

• Salary: $72,000-$80,000 with an annual bonus of up to 10%
• Paid leave for new parents to support work/life balance and family bonding
• Excellent medical/dental and vision coverage—EPO, PPO and HSA
• 401(k) retirement plan with company contribution (because you will retire someday)
• Flexible benefits—choose what you like, ignore the rest
• On-site preschool for our employees’ children
• On-site employee gym for all levels/fitness needs
• Generous employee discount
• Casual dress…and we really mean it

At Lakeshore, we know our diversity makes us stronger, and when everyone feels included and valued, we all win. We strive to embrace our differences and create an intentionally diverse and inclusive community that is representative of the teachers, families and children we serve.

We know we couldn’t do the extraordinary things we’re doing without the people on our team. Thanks to the passion and enthusiasm