Marine Seating Development Specialist - Marine Components

MBI - Malibu Boats, Inc • Loudon, TN

10d • Onsite

About The Position

Marine Components is seeking a skilled Marine Seating Development Specialist to support the design, development, prototyping, and launch of innovative marine seating and upholstery products. This position plays a critical role in transforming concepts into production-ready products by developing upholstery patterns, seating components, foam designs, prototypes, and manufacturing documentation. The ideal candidate combines hands-on upholstery and pattern development expertise with strong technical problem-solving skills and a passion for product development. Working closely with Engineering, Manufacturing, Product Development, Suppliers, and Customers, this role helps bring high-quality marine seating solutions from concept through production.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED required
• Experience developing upholstery patterns, sewn products, soft goods, or related products.
• Strong understanding of upholstery construction methods, materials, and manufacturing processes.
• Ability to interpret technical drawings, specifications, and production requirements.
• Strong problem-solving and organizational skills.
• Effective communication skills and ability to work cross-functionally with engineering and production teams.

Nice To Haves

• Technical degree or related education preferred.
• Experience in marine, furniture, automotive, RV, powersports, or seating manufacturing.
• Experience with CAD software and pattern development systems.
• Experience with CNC cutting systems, nesting software, or CAM processes.
• Experience designing or developing foam products and seating systems.
• Experience supporting prototype builds and production launches.
• Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing and continuous improvement practices.
• Experience working directly with suppliers and product development teams.

Responsibilities

• Develop upholstery patterns for marine seating systems, cushions, backrests, bolsters, and interior components.
• Create and modify patterns for vinyl, fabric, foam, backing materials, and related upholstery components.
• Design, construct, and evaluate prototype seating and upholstery assemblies for new product development projects.
• Develop foam shapes, templates, and support components that meet design, comfort, and manufacturing requirements.
• Create and maintain CAD drawings, templates, and technical documentation that support product development and manufacturing.
• Generate and maintain files used for CNC cutting equipment and pattern development processes.
• Collaborate with Engineering and Production teams to ensure products are manufacturable, cost-effective, and meet quality standards.
• Support new product launches through prototype development, validation, production trials, and implementation activities.
• Evaluate products for fit, finish, durability, comfort, quality, and manufacturability.
• Identify and implement improvements to seating designs, production processes, and manufacturing methods.
• Develop and maintain bills of material, engineering documentation, work instructions, and production support materials.
• Coordinate with suppliers regarding fabrics, vinyl, foam, hardware, and other seating system components.
• Troubleshoot product, pattern, and manufacturing issues and recommend effective solutions.
• Participate in design reviews, product evaluations, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Maintain accurate records, revisions, pattern libraries, and technical documentation.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Help shape the future of marine seating and interior products.
• Work on exciting new customer programs and innovative product launches.
• Collaborate with engineering, manufacturing, and design professionals.
• Make a direct impact on product quality, customer satisfaction, and business growth.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: High school or GED