Applied Content Engineer

About the role

The Applied Content Engineer position at Fictiv is a vital role focused on the development and creation of engineering systems, demonstration platforms, and training kits that effectively showcase the use of MISUMI components. This role involves designing practical systems that can be used for educational purposes, customer demonstrations, and marketing initiatives. The engineer will serve as a key link between product engineering, customer engagement, and educational teams, ensuring that the systems developed are modular, scalable, and easy to understand. The position requires hands-on involvement in designing, building, and testing physical systems, as well as creating supporting documentation and content to facilitate learning and application. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in mechanical design, prototyping, and systems engineering, with the ability to translate technical concepts into tangible demonstration tools that highlight the features and benefits of MISUMI components.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Design, develop, and build demonstration systems that showcase practical applications of MISUMI components, including automation cells, jigs, fixtures, and motion systems.
• Produce detailed CAD models, assemblies, and Bills of Materials (BOMs) using CAD software, sourcing components from MISUMI to ensure accuracy and functionality.
• Assemble and evaluate physical training kits and modular systems intended for use in educational institutions such as universities, as well as for customer demonstrations.
• Develop comprehensive technical documentation, including detailed narratives, assembly instructions, and instructional materials to support the systems created.
• Collaborate closely with instructional designers to adapt these systems into effective learning tools, ensuring they meet educational standards and facilitate hands-on learning experiences.
• Work with the marketing team to generate application-focused content such as videos, case studies, technical guides, and other promotional materials that demonstrate system capabilities and applications.
• Identify and report product deficiencies, usability issues, or design improvements to the product management team to help enhance future iterations of MISUMI components and systems.
• Continuously refine and improve demonstration systems based on user feedback, market trends, and evolving educational or customer needs.
• Participate in maintaining and improving the company's Quality Management System (QMS), ensuring all systems and processes meet quality standards.
• Support the development of new prototypes and proof-of-concept models to demonstrate innovative applications of MISUMI components.
• Assist in organizing and participating in trade shows, career fairs, university visits, and other outreach activities to promote MISUMI solutions and the Fictiv brand.
• Maintain a safe working environment during assembly, testing, and prototyping activities, adhering to safety protocols and best practices.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field such as Mechatronics, Manufacturing Engineering, or Industrial Design.
• Between 3 to 5 years of hands-on experience in mechanical design, systems engineering, or product development, preferably in a manufacturing or educational context.
• Strong proficiency in CAD software, with experience in creating detailed models, assemblies, and BOMs.
• Experience designing systems, fixtures, automation equipment, or motion systems suitable for manufacturing or educational purposes.
• Practical skills in fabrication and prototyping techniques, including machining, 3D printing, welding, and assembly.
• Ability to interpret technical drawings and specifications accurately and translate them into physical systems.
• Strong attention to detail and a systems-thinking approach to design and problem-solving.
• Excellent communication skills, capable of conveying complex technical concepts clearly to both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team environment, managing multiple projects simultaneously.
• Knowledge of manufacturing processes and familiarity with sourcing components from suppliers such as MISUMI.
• Willingness to participate in travel up to 20% annually within the US and Canada for activities such as university visits, trade shows, and customer demonstrations.

Nice to have

• Experience in developing educational content, training modules, or instructional videos.
• Background in automation, robotics, or control systems.
• Familiarity with software tools beyond CAD, such as MATLAB, LabVIEW, or other simulation and control software.
• Previous experience working in a startup or innovative manufacturing environment.
• Knowledge of ITAR regulations or other export control standards related to engineering components and systems.

Skills & tools

• Proficiency in CAD software (such as SolidWorks, Inventor, or similar) and assembly design tools.
• Strong understanding of manufacturing processes, including machining, 3D printing, and assembly techniques.
• Ability to create detailed technical documentation and instructional materials.
• Familiarity with sourcing components from suppliers like MISUMI and managing BOMs.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to troubleshoot mechanical systems.
• Effective communication skills for working with cross-functional teams and external partners.

Practical notes

• This role may require up to 20% travel annually within the United States and Canada for activities such as university visits, trade shows, customer demonstrations, and team meetings.
• The salary range for this position is between $90,000 and $110,000 per year, depending on experience and qualifications.
• Fictiv is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace environment. We actively encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, including women, members of the LGBTQ+ community, people of color, individuals with disabilities, and veterans.
• The position is based at the Schaumburg, IL office and involves on-site work; no remote or hybrid arrangements are specified.
• Candidates should be prepared to participate in maintaining and improving the company's Quality Management System (QMS).
• The role involves hands-on assembly, prototyping, and testing activities, requiring physical presence in the office and workshop areas.

About the company

Fictiv Exists to Enable Hardware Innovators to Build Better Products, Faster Fictiv exists
to help product innovators create. Fictiv is a global manufacturing and supply chain company that enables organizations to scale globally across Fictiv’s four global manufacturing centers in India, Mexico, China, and the U. S..