SENIOR ENGINEER - PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT

Bassett Furniture•Newton, NC

About The Position

Bassett Furniture is hiring a Senior Engineer – Product Development to turn designer concepts into buildable upholstery frames. The role designs stationary and motion frames for mockups and market samples using designer sketches, 2D drawings, and photos. It owns the process from concept to cut part, including 3D frame modeling, 2D CAD preparation for manufacturing, and 3D model preparation for CNC routing. The engineer works closely with design, sample room, and plant teams to create frames that meet appearance, production-efficiency, and durability needs. The position divides time among the engineering office, sample room, and production floor. It involves standing, walking, and handling frame parts and mockups on the shop floor, using appropriate safety equipment. The role also mentors junior engineers and technicians and contributes to frame design standards.

Requirements

At least 5 years designing furniture frames, ideally upholstered stationary and motion furniture.
Proven ability to translate sketches, drawings, and photos into buildable frame designs.
Advanced 3D modeling skills in Solid Edge.
Strong 2D drafting skills in AutoCAD for manufacturing documentation.
Experience preparing 3D models and part files for CNC router production.
Solid understanding of wood and engineered panel materials, joinery, fasteners, and frame construction methods.
Ability to read and create technical drawings, tolerances, and bills of material.
Clear communication and ability to work well with designers, sample makers, and production teams.
Ability to manage multiple sample projects against market deadlines.
Solid Edge and AutoCAD are required.

Nice To Haves

Associate degree in Mechanical, Manufacturing, or Industrial Engineering; Furniture Design; or equivalent experience.
Hands-on experience with motion mechanism suppliers and mechanism integration.
Working knowledge of upholstery construction, including springs, suspension, foam, and fabric wrap allowances.
Experience in a sample room or prototype shop environment.
Familiarity with lean manufacturing and design-for-manufacturing practices.
Knowledge of Platain for CNC router programming.
Knowledge of SigmaNEST for part nesting for CNC cutting.

Responsibilities

Interpret designer sketches, 2D drawings, and photos to engineer stationary and motion upholstery frames.
Build accurate 3D frame models and assemblies in Solid Edge, including rails, posts, seat decks, backs, arms, and blocking.
Integrate motion mechanisms, including recliners, power and manual motion, and sleepers, with appropriate clearances, mounting, and geometry.
Prepare 2D manufacturing drawings in AutoCAD, including part details, cut lists, assembly drawings, and bills of material.
Prepare 3D models and part files for CNC routing, including toolpath-ready geometry and nesting.
Program and optimize CNC router output using Platain and nest parts in SigmaNEST to maximize yield and reduce waste.
Build and support mockups and market samples on tight timelines, adjusting designs based on fit, comfort, and appearance reviews.
Engineer frames for strength, durability, material efficiency, and repeatable production.
Release designs to production and support the plant through first builds, resolving fit and assembly issues.
Maintain organized, revision-controlled model, drawing, and CNC program libraries.
Mentor junior engineers and technicians and contribute to frame design standards.