Senior Design Engineer

Auto req ID: 57517 
Title: Senior Design Engineer 
Job Function: Engineering 
Location: PDC
Workplace Category: Onsite 
Company: Harley-Davidson Motor Company 
Full or Part-Time: Full Time 
Shift: SHIFT1 

In 1903, out of a small shed in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, four young men lit a cultural wildfire that would grow and spread across geographies and generations. Their innovation and imagination for what was possible on two wheels sparked a transportation revolution that would make Harley-Davidson the most recognizable motorcycle brand in the world. Today, we continue to define motorcycle culture, evoking soul-stirring emotion reflected in every product and experience we deliver - like we have for well over a century and will for generations to come. Are you ready to ride with us?

The Harley-Davidson Motor Company Product Development Center (PDC) located in Wauwatosa, WI is home to the mantra – You dream it. We build it. Join our team as a  Senior Design Engineer.

Job Summary

Design Engineers are responsible for the design, development, and delivery of motorcycle components and systems using robust engineering practices and Harley-Davidson product development methodology. Engineers are expected to deliver performance, style, quality, cost, durability, manufacturing, and timing objectives for their parts.

This role works collaboratively with industrial design, manufacturing, purchasing, quality, service, regulatory, and worldwide supplier partners.
Scope, autonomy, and leadership expectations scale by level, but all roles emphasize technical ownership, strong fundamentals, and cross functional collaboration.

Job Responsibilities

• Design, optimize, and deliver motorcycle components and systems from concept through production, applying sound engineering fundamentals, analysis, and testing.
• Define and manage component or system requirements and ensure alignment with vehicle performance and project objectives.
• Create and release CAD models, assemblies, drawings, and technical documentation.
• Plan and execute validation activities including DFMEAs, DVP&Rs, testing, and resolution of technical issues.
• Collaborate with cross functional teams and suppliers to resolve complex technical, manufacturing, quality, and business problems
• Support sourcing, supplier development, and production readiness activities.
• Communicate technical status and risks clearly to stakeholders.
• Contribute to continuous improvement through knowledge sharing, guideline development, and best practices.
• Mentor and support less experienced engineers as appropriate to role.

Education Requirements

• Bachelors of Science (BS) degree is required in either: Mechanical or Electro-mechanical.

Experience Requirements

• Minimum of 5 years of hands-on engineering professional experience working directly in product development.
• Well-rounded engineering background in mechanical design, project management, and continuous improvement.
• Deep technical knowledge in manufacturing processes includes welding, forging, casting, machining, injection molding, rubber molding, chrome plating, and coatings.
• Understanding of mechanical systems, materials, and assembly processes.
• Proficient in bolted joint calculations, analysis, testing, and design tools/processes including CAD, GD&T, conventional engineering calculations, FEA, PLM systems, DFM/DFA methodologies and engineering change management.  
• Proficient with CAD tools (Pro-E or Creo) to ensure design accuracy.
• Proven success in solving challenging technical problems with innovative solutions in a team environment.
• Demonstrated success directly or indirectly leading diverse global teams to accomplish technical, quality and timing commitments.
• Experience with chassis, body, or vehicle design and integration in motorcycle, powersports, automotive, transportation, or agriculture industries.
• Demonstrated ability to develop and execute test plans to verify project requirements.
• Experience working with suppliers and production launch activities including PPAP.
• Motorcycle riding experience or strong interest is appreciated.

Chassis Position Specific – Preferred Experience

Suspension & Foot Controls

• Systems / Components: suspension, forks, shocks, foot controls, footpegs, footboards
• Engineering Skills: experience with supplier-led designs, development of PRD’s (Project Requirement Document), motorcycle / vehicle performance, defining rider/customer requirements, designing for rider ergonomics, ride comfort, structural durability, aluminum castings, forging design, proficient in Creo

Bodywork

• Systems / Components: bodywork, side covers, skid plates, seat cowl, covers, luggage, fairing
• Engineering Skills: working with A-surface models, plastic part design, injection molding, cosmetic plastic part development, design of B-side features, proficient in Creo

Steering, Seats, Windshields

• System / Components: seats, triple clamps, fork lock, steer stem, windshields
• Engineering Skills: defining customer requirements, seat comfort, managing complexity and variants, experience with supplier-led designs, development of PRD’s (Project Requirement Document), designing for rider ergonomics, proficient in Creo 

The pay range shown represents the national average pay range for this role. Your pay may be more or less than the stated range and is dependent on your geographic location and level of experience.

We offer an inclusive compensation package for all full-time salaried employees including, but not limited to, annual bonus programs, health insurance benefits, a 401k program, onsite fitness centers and employee stores, employee discounts on products and accessories, and more. Learn more about Harley-Davidson here. 

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States.

Direct Reports: No  
Travel Required: 0 - 10%  
Pay Range: $93,400 - $145,000 
Visa Sponsorship: This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship or visa transfer  
Relocation: This position is eligible for domestic relocation assistance (within posted country)