Product Designer - Mechanical/Mechatronics - Automotive

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Product Designer - Mechanical/Mechatronics - Automotive
Company: Flex
Location: Woerden, Netherlands
Job Type: FULL_TIME
Category: Product Engineering / Mechanical Design
Date Posted: 2025-09-10
Experience Level: 2-5 Years
Remote Status: Hybrid (Max. 3 days from home/week)

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive the design and modeling of precise mechanical actuators and assemblies for the automotive sector, leveraging expertise in mechatronics.
• Collaborate within multidisciplinary product engineering teams, acting as a key technical liaison for product design aspects.
• Engage in co-development processes with suppliers, ensuring seamless integration of mechanical components through effective supplier management.
• Contribute to the innovation pipeline by supporting the research team in developing new actuator concepts and technologies.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned within Flex's Motion Controls International (MCi) division, a leader in automotive actuators. The focus on "Product Designer" with a mechanical/mechatronics background and automotive specialization clearly indicates a hands-on design engineering role with a strong emphasis on component and system development for moving vehicles. The hybrid work arrangement and specific core hours suggest a structured yet flexible working environment common in European engineering firms.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Design and model all mechanical aspects of precise actuators and assemblies using 3D CAD tools, adhering to project specifications.
• Oversee and manage co-development processes with suppliers, in close collaboration with Supplier Quality Engineering and Supplier Resource Management.
• Act as a primary point of contact for product design within multidisciplinary project teams, interfacing directly with customers on technical inquiries.
• Partner with Product Engineers, Model Makers, and Test Engineers to create models, prototypes, and conduct rigorous testing.
• Document, analyze, and report on test results to inform design iterations and product validation.
• Support the research and development of novel actuator concepts, contributing innovative and technically sound ideas.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of design, engineering support, and cross-functional collaboration. The emphasis on "supervise co-development processes with suppliers" indicates a need for strong vendor management and technical communication skills. The requirement to "support our customers on technical questions" points to direct customer interaction and problem-solving capabilities.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: A completed degree in a relevant field such as Mechanical Engineering or Mechatronics Engineering.
Experience: 2-5 years of relevant professional experience in a similar product design role, with a strong preference for experience within the Automotive Industry. Experience in Aerospace, MedTech, or other regulated environments will also be considered. Familiarity with technologies like mechanical actuators or the development of mechanical or electromechanical parts for moving vehicles is highly desirable.

Required Skills:

• Proficiency in 3D CAD tools (PTC Creo experience is preferred but not mandatory).
• Experience with Finite Element Method (FEM/FEA) for structural analysis.
• Familiarity with Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA) processes.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English.
• Strong understanding of mechanical design principles and mechatronics systems.

Preferred Skills:

• Dutch language proficiency.
• Experience with simulation tools beyond basic FEA.
• Knowledge of automotive industry standards and regulations.
• Experience in developing electromechanical components.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "2-5 years" experience level suggests a mid-level designer role, requiring practical application of design principles and some project exposure, but not necessarily senior-level strategic oversight. The preference for PTC Creo indicates a specific tool that candidates with this experience should highlight if they possess it.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrate a clear progression of design concepts from initial ideation through to detailed engineering drawings and specifications.
• Showcase examples of mechanical actuator designs, highlighting problem-solving approaches and innovative solutions.
• Include case studies that detail the application of CAD tools, simulation (FEA/FEM), and FMEA in the design process.
• Present projects that illustrate collaboration with cross-functional teams (e.g., test engineers, suppliers) and how feedback was integrated.
• Quantify the impact of design choices, where possible, through performance metrics or efficiency improvements.

Process Documentation:

• Provide examples of design documentation, including 3D models, 2D drawings, Bill of Materials (BOMs), and technical specifications.
• Illustrate understanding of design for manufacturing (DFM) and design for assembly (DFA) principles.
• Show evidence of adhering to quality management systems and processes, such as ISO standards or APQP (Advanced Product Quality Planning) if applicable to automotive experience.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Product Designer role, a portfolio is crucial. It should not just present final designs but also the process behind them – showing problem identification, ideation, iterative design, simulation, and collaboration. This is a key differentiator for operations-minded candidates who understand the lifecycle of product development.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on industry benchmarks for a Product Designer with 2-5 years of experience in Mechanical/Mechatronics within the Netherlands automotive sector, a competitive salary range would typically fall between €45,000 and €65,000 per annum. This estimate considers the specialized skills required, the automotive industry context, and the cost of living in the Netherlands.

Benefits:

• Development Possibilities & Career Pathways: Opportunities for professional growth and advancement, exemplified by the manager who progressed from designer to management.
• Hybrid Work Model: Flexibility to work up to 3 days from home per week, balanced with 2 days in the office for collaboration.
• Flexible Working Hours: Core working hours allow for flexibility in scheduling, typically between 11:00 and 15:00.
• Competitive Compensation: Includes 8% holiday pay and a bonus plan.
• Financial Benefits: 50/50 pension contribution and discounts on various insurances.
• Collaborative Environment: Work within a team of 20 colleagues focused on innovation and production.

Working Hours: Standard full-time hours, with flexible arrangements around core business hours (11:00-15:00).

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on publicly available data for similar engineering roles in the Netherlands. The benefits listed emphasize career development and work-life balance, which are attractive draws for engineering professionals.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Diversified Manufacturing, specializing in Automotive Actuation Solutions (mirror glass, power-folding actuators, active aerodynamics, motor cooling management) through its Motion Controls International (MCi) division. Flex is a global leader in design, manufacturing, and supply chain solutions. Company Size: Flex is a large, global corporation with a significant employee base. MCi, as a division, likely operates with a more focused team structure within the larger organization. Founded: Flex was founded in 1969. MCi, as a Flex company, benefits from this extensive history and established operational framework.

Team Structure:

• The role reports to the "Manager Product Engineering," indicating a clear hierarchical structure within the engineering department.
• The Product Designer will be part of a team of approximately 20 colleagues, suggesting a close-knit and collaborative working environment within the engineering function.
• Expect close collaboration with Product Engineers, Model Makers, Test Engineers, and the Research team, as well as external suppliers and potentially customers.

Methodology:

• Design processes will likely involve rigorous data analysis of specifications and test results.
• Workflow planning will focus on efficient product development cycles, from concept to prototype and validation.
• Automation and efficiency practices are implicitly valued through the focus on actuator technology and supplier co-development.

Company Website: https://www.flex.com/, https://www.motioncontrols.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: Understanding Flex as a large, established manufacturing partner is key. MCi's specific focus on actuators means the engineering team is specialized, fostering deep expertise. The mention of "invent, design and produce all actuators ourselves" suggests a vertically integrated approach, which is attractive to engineers who want to see the full product lifecycle.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a mid-level Product Designer role (2-5 years of experience). It requires the application of established engineering principles and tools to design specific components and systems. The role offers a solid foundation in automotive actuator design and product development processes.

Reporting Structure: The Product Designer will report to the Manager Product Engineering, a direct line that provides guidance and oversight. This structure facilitates mentorship and career development within the product engineering function.

Operations Impact: The Product Designer's work directly influences the quality, performance, and manufacturability of MCi's actuator products. Successful designs contribute to customer satisfaction, market competitiveness, and Flex's overall revenue and profitability in the automotive sector.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in mechanical design, mechatronics, and specific actuator technologies, progressing to Senior Product Designer or Lead Engineer roles.
• Cross-Functional Roles: Transition into Product Engineering Management, Supplier Development Engineering, or even Project Management roles by leveraging project experience.
• Continuous Learning: Opportunities to learn new CAD/simulation software, automotive standards, and emerging actuator technologies through internal training and external resources.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit mention of the manager's career path (Designer to Manager) is a strong indicator of internal growth potential. Candidates should be prepared to discuss how they envision their career evolving within such a structure.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based in Woerden, Netherlands, within a professional work environment. The hybrid model allows for a balance between focused individual work at home and collaborative team activities in the office.

Office Location(s): Woerden, Netherlands. Specific office amenities or layout are not detailed, but it's implied to be a modern, professional engineering setting.

Workspace Context:

• The hybrid setup facilitates focused design work at home and team interactions, brainstorming, and prototype reviews in the office.
• Access to professional work tools, including advanced 3D CAD software and potentially simulation platforms, will be provided.
• Opportunities for direct interaction with colleagues, including the Product Engineering team, model makers, and test engineers, are integral to the role.

Work Schedule: Standard full-time hours, with flexible working hours allowing for core time availability (11:00-15:00), accommodating personal needs while ensuring team collaboration.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid work arrangement is a key facet of the work environment. Candidates should consider how they manage their time and collaboration effectively across both remote and in-office settings.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of resume and portfolio for technical fit and relevant experience.
• Technical Interview: Discussion of past projects, design methodologies, CAD skills, FEA/FMEA experience, and problem-solving approaches. Expect questions on automotive actuator technologies.
• Team/Manager Interview: Assessment of cultural fit, collaboration style, communication skills, and alignment with team dynamics. May include a case study or design challenge.
• Final Interview: Potentially with higher management, focusing on career aspirations and overall contribution to the company's goals.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Select Projects: Choose 3-5 of your most relevant projects, focusing on automotive actuators or similar complex mechanical/mechatronics designs.
• Showcase the Process: For each project, clearly outline the problem statement, your design approach, the tools used (CAD, FEA), key design decisions, challenges overcome, and the final outcome or impact.
• Quantify Results: Wherever possible, include metrics related to performance improvements, cost reductions, or efficiency gains achieved through your design work.
• Highlight Collaboration: Detail how you worked with cross-functional teams, suppliers, or customers, and how feedback was incorporated into your designs.
• Prepare for Questions: Be ready to discuss your design choices in detail and defend your technical decisions.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared for a potential design challenge or problem-solving exercise related to actuator mechanisms or automotive components.
• Practice articulating your thought process clearly and concisely, as you would during a portfolio presentation.
• Review common failure modes in mechanical systems and how to mitigate them.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio is critical for this role. Candidates should be ready to walk through their work, explaining not just the "what" but the "how" and "why" behind their design choices, demonstrating a strong understanding of engineering principles and practical application.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• 3D CAD Software: Proficiency is essential. PTC Creo is preferred, but experience with other industry-standard CAD software such as SolidWorks, CATIA, or Inventor will be valuable.
• Finite Element Analysis (FEA) / Finite Element Method (FEM) Software: Experience with tools like ANSYS, Abaqus, or integrated FEA modules within CAD software for simulating mechanical behavior, stress, and thermal performance.
• Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA) Tools: Familiarity with FMEA methodologies and software for risk assessment in product design.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Analysis Tools: Basic proficiency in Excel for data handling and analysis of test results.
• Reporting Tools: Experience in compiling technical reports, potentially using standard office suites.

CRM & Automation:

• While not explicitly mentioned, familiarity with Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) systems for managing design data and revisions would be beneficial.

📝 Enhancement Note: Highlighting specific CAD and FEA software experience in the application or resume will be advantageous. If the candidate has experience with PLM systems, it would be a strong plus for managing design iterations and documentation.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Innovation: A drive to invent, design, and develop new and improved actuator technologies.
• Collaboration: Working effectively within a team of engineers and with external partners like suppliers and customers.
• Quality & Precision: A commitment to designing high-performance, reliable mechanical components, particularly for the demanding automotive sector.
• Continuous Improvement: An openness to sharing ideas and contributing to a culture that constantly seeks to optimize designs and processes.
• Respect & Inclusion: As part of Flex, a commitment to a respectful and inclusive work environment.

Collaboration Style:

• Expect a collaborative approach, working closely with Product Engineers, Model Makers, and Test Engineers throughout the design and development lifecycle.
• Open communication is encouraged, with opportunities to share ideas and provide feedback.
• Cross-functional interaction with suppliers is a key aspect of the role, requiring strong communication and negotiation skills.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "open culture" and emphasis on team collaboration suggest a workplace where input is valued and constructive feedback is a norm. Candidates should be prepared to discuss how they contribute to a positive team environment.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Innovation with Constraints: Designing novel actuator solutions while adhering to strict automotive specifications, cost targets, and timelines.
• Supplier Collaboration Complexity: Effectively managing co-development processes with diverse suppliers, ensuring technical alignment and quality output.
• Hybrid Work Management: Optimizing productivity and maintaining strong team cohesion while working a hybrid schedule.
• Keeping Pace with Automotive Technology: Staying current with evolving automotive trends, electrification, and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) that may influence actuator requirements.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Design Techniques: Gaining deeper expertise in CAD, simulation, and advanced mechanical design principles relevant to mechatronics.
• Automotive Industry Standards: Understanding and applying specific automotive quality, safety, and performance standards.
• Project Management Skills: Developing skills in managing project timelines, resources, and supplier relationships.
• Cross-Disciplinary Exposure: Learning from colleagues in electrical engineering, software development, and testing to gain a more holistic product development perspective.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are typical for automotive product development. Candidates who can demonstrate proactive problem-solving and a commitment to continuous learning will be well-suited for this role.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex mechanical actuator or mechatronic system you designed. What were the key challenges, and how did you overcome them using CAD and simulation?" (Focus on process, tools, and problem-solving).
• "How do you approach collaborating with suppliers to ensure the successful co-development of mechanical components? Can you provide an example?" (Highlight communication, technical oversight, and quality assurance).
• "Walk me through your process for conducting Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA) on a new mechanical design. What are the critical steps?" (Demonstrate structured risk assessment).
• "Imagine we need to design a new actuator for electric vehicle thermal management. What are the initial considerations and design approaches you would take?" (Assess conceptual thinking and technical judgment).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about working for Flex and specifically within the MCi division?" (Show research on the company and its products).
• "How do you adapt to a hybrid work environment and ensure effective collaboration with your team?" (Discuss time management, communication tools, and team engagement strategies).
• "Describe a time you had to integrate feedback from multiple stakeholders (e.g., engineers, management, customers) into your design. How did you manage conflicting input?" (Assess communication and compromise skills).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Begin with a brief overview of your overall experience, then dive into 2-3 project case studies. For each project, clearly state the objective, your role, the technical challenges, your design solution (with visuals), the tools used, and the outcome.
• Visuals: Use high-quality 3D renderings, CAD models, simulation results, and relevant diagrams to illustrate your work.
• Narrative: Tell a compelling story for each project, emphasizing your problem-solving process and the impact of your design contributions.
• Conciseness: Be clear, focused, and ready to answer detailed technical questions about your work.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should prepare specific examples that align with the responsibilities and required skills. Demonstrating a data-driven approach and a clear understanding of the product development lifecycle will be crucial.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Product Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided Workday link, ensuring all sections are completed accurately.
• Tailor Your Resume: Highlight experience with mechanical/mechatronics design, automotive industry exposure, proficiency in 3D CAD (especially PTC Creo if applicable), and any experience with FEA/FMEA. Use keywords from the job description.
• Prepare Your Portfolio: Assemble a concise portfolio showcasing 2-3 relevant projects. Focus on demonstrating your design process, technical skills, and problem-solving abilities. Ensure it includes visuals and quantifiable results where possible.
• Research Flex and MCi: Familiarize yourself with Flex's global operations and MCi's specific product lines and market position in automotive actuation. Understand their commitment to innovation and quality.
• Practice Your Pitch: Be ready to articulate your experience, design philosophy, and suitability for the role, particularly during the portfolio review and technical interviews.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.

---