Design Engineer

Our Culture

We are proud to have a values-based culture, which means we focus less on rules & transacting and more on values & transforming. Our goal is to create workplaces and spaces where great people can do great things to thrive and flourish both professionally and personally.

Overview

As a Design Engineer you will be a key component of Storyteller’s Technology, Engineering, and Design (TED) team. You will take full ownership of design challenges and see them through to resolution as they are your own, while being a superior brand ambassador of our reputation within our vibrant community of vanlifers, adventure seekers, and outdoor enthusiasts.

General Responsibilities, Including But Not Limited To

• Develop, modify, and maintain detailed SolidWorks part, drawing, and assembly files to meet project specifications,
• Collaborate with design and engineering teams to model and create vehicle components, prototypes, and production support equipment,
• Mathematically analyze static and dynamic vehicle systems for stress, strain, and fatigue under various loading conditions,
• Evaluate vehicle thermal characteristics and engineer solutions to complex thermodynamic challenges using mathematical modeling,
• Perform static, dynamic, and fatigue Finite Element Analysis (FEA), providing actionable recommendations to the design team based on results,
• Review and refine design concepts by incorporating Design for Manufacturing (DFM) principles to enhance efficiency and functionality,
• Partner closely with manufacturing and production teams to adjust designs to “As-Built” specifications and continuously improve models and prints based on real-world production feedback,
• Lead safety-critical design initiatives, utilizing a Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA) driven decision-making process, Delegate tasks effectively to drafters, ensuring projects stay on track and within budget while meeting quality standards,
• Foster a culture of collaboration and teamwork within the design and engineering team, contributing to overall success through cooperation and camaraderie,
• Participate in all other duties as assigned, maintaining flexibility and adaptability to support team and organizational goals
  
  

Work Schedule

• Generally M - F from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. CST
  
  

Work Location:

• In Office: 109 West Park Place, Birmingham, AL
  
  

Qualifications/Skills

Solidworks design experience, general understanding of manufacturing best practices, comfortable with Solidworks weldments and sheet metal functions, ability to perform high level engineering calculations, aptitude for learning new things quickly, high level of attention to detail, capable of solving complex problems with simple solutions, good organizational, verbal, and written communication skills, demonstrates the ability to work effectively in a team environment, active listener and relationship builder

Education And Experience

• 4+ years Solidworks modeling experience including sheet metal, surfacing, and weldments
• 2+ years mechanical design or product development experience
• Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering
• Prior experience working in or around manufacturing with a high level understanding of common manufacturing methods
• Proven track record of working in a fast-paced, high-stress position that requires high levels of attention to detail
• Experience partnering with vendors/suppliers
• Familiarity with MS Office and G Suite
  
  

Scorecard

• Core Competencies - Technical Excellence, Ownership & Accountability, Analytical Thinking, Finite Element Analysis Expertise, Design for Manufacturing Expertise, Problem-Solving Skills, Collaboration, Communication, Attention to Detail, Leadership, Adaptability, Teamwork, Camaraderie, Project Management Skills, and Failure Mode & Effects Analysis.
• Position Mission - To own and drive innovative, manufacturable, and safe engineering design solutions from concept to implementation, directly supporting Storyteller’s mission to deliver high-performance adventure vehicles that uphold the brand’s reputation for excellence, reliability, and community engagement.
• Anticipated Outcome - Deliver high-quality, manufacturable designs and solutions that meet performance, safety, and timeline requirements while driving innovation and supporting team success.
  
  

Physical Requirements

Candidates should be prepared for the following:

• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer (CAD/software work)
• Occasional standing, walking, and bending when collaborating with production or inspecting physical prototypes
• Ability to use hands and fingers for detailed computer work, writing, and handling technical drawings or small parts
• Visual acuity to read technical documents, engineering drawings, and computer screens
• Ability to occasionally lift up to 25 pounds, such as physical prototypes, tools, or materials (if visiting the production floor or handling components)
• Hearing and verbal communication skills to participate in team meetings, give instructions, and explain design concepts
• Mobility to move around an office, shop floor, or prototype lab in a safe manner
  
  

It's important to note that this job primarily involves office-based work, and the physical demands are generally minimal. Accommodations will be provided as needed to ensure the comfort and well-being of employees in accordance with applicable laws and regulations.

Exemption Status: Exempt