Associate Product Developer

The Bernard Group•Chanhassen, MN

5d•Onsite

About The Position

The Associate Product Developer creates innovative mechanical designs, concepts, and prototypes of in-store displays and graphics for retail customers, brand marketers, and fixture manufacturers. The role requires basic prototype-development capabilities and close collaboration with Sales, Design, Engineering, Estimating, Sourcing, and Production. The developer also provides guidance to team members on appropriate build techniques and methods. This position is based onsite in Chanhassen, Minnesota, with a Monday-through-Friday schedule from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The work involves designing, building, and testing prototypes to customer requirements; learning about display-component materials and manufacturing processes; operating shop equipment safely; documenting prototype information for production replication; supporting equipment maintenance and Flex Lab organization; and maintaining a safe, clean, organized workspace. The Bernard Group is a 1,000-person, 100% employee-owned visual merchandising company. It emphasizes teamwork, customer service, quality, employee ownership, and the use of sustainably sourced materials from eco-friendly partners.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED.
High mechanical aptitude.
Proficiency with PC skills using MS Windows.
Experience working with wood, laminates, veneers, solid plastics, adhesives, and many fasteners.
Ability to read and interpret engineering, production, and shop drawings.
Attention to detail and ability to complete projects accurately, on deadline, and to company quality standards.
Self-motivation, ability to learn quickly, and initiative in identifying customer and company needs.
Ability to work independently, make decisions, and solve problems effectively and creatively under tight deadlines.
Effective time-management and self-management skills.
Ability to maintain the confidentiality of company, employee, and customer information.
Proficiency with basic hand tools and comfort working around larger machines and equipment.
Ability to adapt quickly to new equipment and manufacturing techniques.
Ability to collaborate with coworkers and departments to develop innovative solutions.
Effective verbal and written communication skills, strong listening skills, and ability to present ideas concisely.
Trustworthiness, reliability, adaptability, willingness to take on new challenges, and ability to work well with others.

Nice To Haves

Preferred experience in Engineering, CAD, Drafting, or a similar trade.
Experience working with computer-aided design and drafting tools.
SolidWorks experience for documenting prototype information.

Responsibilities

Design, build, and test prototypes according to customer requirements and/or vision.
Learn about raw materials and manufacturing processes for display components, including injection molding, vacuum-formed and extruded plastics, wood cabinetry and framing, and metal and wire.
Operate small equipment, saws, drills, heat benders, and other equipment safely and efficiently.
Accurately and promptly document prototype information for production replication, preferably in SolidWorks.
Learn proper shop-equipment operation, practices, and techniques from Lead, Senior, and Product Developers.
Participate in preventive maintenance to keep department equipment in good operating condition.
Assist the Fixture Development Manager with organization, communication, and movement within the Flex Lab.
Maintain a safe, clean, and organized work area.
Complete miscellaneous projects and tasks as requested by management.
Counsel team members on proper build techniques and methods.