Design Engineer - Base Powertrain

Harley-Davidson•Milwaukee, WI

5d•$74,900 - $112,200•Onsite

About The Position

This Design Engineer role will support the design, development, validation, and launch of base powertrain components and systems. This entry-level role works within an experienced engineering team to help translate requirements into robust designs, evaluate technical options, support analysis and testing, and communicate results clearly to cross-functional partners. The role is intended for an early-career engineer who is building foundational capability in product development, design tools, problem solving, and production release processes.

Requirements

Bachelor of Science in Engineering or a related technical field required.
Typically requires a minimum of 3 years of related experience.
Fundamental understanding of mechanical systems, powertrain operation, product design, engineering drawings, and basic analytical methods.
Basic familiarity with CAD tools and product data management systems; experience with Creo, Windchill, or similar tools preferred.
Demonstrated ability to learn quickly, solve problems using data and sound engineering judgment, and follow structured development or test plans.
Strong communication, organization, and collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively in a cross-functional engineering environment.

Nice To Haves

Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related technical degree preferred.
Interest in motorcycle, automotive, powersports, or mobility product development preferred.

Responsibilities

Support design and delivery of powertrain components and systems from concept through production launch under the guidance of experienced engineers. Examples of supported components include crankshafts, casings, covers, cylinder heads, balancers, gears, and bearings.
Develop and maintain fundamental knowledge of engineering calculations, CAD tools, drawings, materials, manufacturing processes, and validation methods.
Collaborate with cross-functional partners to define requirements, evaluate design alternatives, and support decisions that balance performance, quality, cost, weight, and timing.
Assist with engineering analysis, tolerance reviews, component packaging, design reviews, and documentation needed to demonstrate design robustness.
Support creation and execution of Design Failure Modes and Effects Analyses (DFMEAs), Design Verification Plans and Reports (DVP&Rs), and related engineering deliverables.
Review test data, summarize findings, and help drive closure of issues identified through development, validation, supplier, or production activities.
Communicate project status, risks, open issues, and recommended next steps clearly to team members, cross-functional partners, and leadership.
Contribute to continuous improvement of design processes, engineering tools, documentation practices, and team standards.