Senior Principal Designer - KBE

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior Principal Designer - KBE

Company: Daikin Applied Americas

Location: Plymouth, MN, United States

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: Engineering Design & Operations

Date Posted: April 24, 2026

Experience Level: Senior / Principal (10+ years)

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive the strategic advancement of engineering and design processes, tools, and technologies, focusing on automation and digital transformation within the organization.

• Provide governance and recommendations for critical design systems, including Agile PLM, CAD software, and other engineering tools, to enhance efficiency and accelerate product development.

• Lead cross-functional teams in the implementation of system improvements, encompassing process documentation, training development, and employee enablement.

• Quantify the business impact of identified opportunities and develop compelling business cases to secure investment for process and system enhancements.

• Convert rule-based designs into automated logic for Bills of Materials (BOMs), modular designs, assembly drawings, and flat file outputs, significantly reducing manual effort.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned at a Senior Principal level, indicating a high degree of autonomy, strategic influence, and responsibility for driving significant change within the engineering and design functions. The emphasis on KBE (Knowledge-Based Engineering) suggests a focus on leveraging intelligent systems and automation to streamline complex design processes. The hybrid work arrangement implies a need for strong self-management and effective communication skills for remote collaboration.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Oversee and govern the data systems, Agile PLM, computer-assisted engineering, and design software used by designers and engineers, evaluating and recommending solutions for improved efficiency, cost reduction, and faster time-to-market.

• Lead cross-functional teams through system implementation projects, which includes developing comprehensive process documentation and delivering targeted employee training.

• Develop and implement logic code to automate the generation of Bills of Materials (BOMs), modular designs, assembly drawings, and flat file outputs from basic rules-based designs.

• Partner closely with the IT department to articulate the functional system needs of design teams and ensure the implementation of best practices for scalability, supportability, ease of use, maintenance, and optimal system performance.

• Champion an integrated model validation process, collaborating with simulation teams and operations teams (Integrated Supply Chain, Manufacturing Engineering) to ensure design integrity and manufacturability.

• Drive continuous improvement initiatives by applying Lean methodologies such as DIMAC, Kaizen, and other CI activities to refine engineering and design processes and methods.

• Manage and maintain standards within assigned organizational areas, ensuring consistency and adherence to best practices.

• Collaborate with the digital team to install software, user utilities, and manage modifications and upgrades for operating systems and workstation environments.

• Provide leadership through influence to effectively resolve conflicts and manage consensus-building among employees and across different departments.

• Ensure a working knowledge of all relevant safety policies and regulations, promoting safe work practices for oneself and others.

• Contribute to the operating costs of the department by providing input for budget forecasts and financial planning.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of strategic oversight, hands-on technical contribution (KBE automation), and strong leadership through influence. The emphasis on Lean methodologies and continuous improvement underscores a commitment to operational excellence. The requirement to partner with IT and other operational teams signifies the critical cross-functional nature of this role.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Associate's degree (AAS) in Design/Drafting or equivalent, with a minimum of 12 years of relevant experience post-degree.

Required Skills:

• Expert Understanding: ASME Y14.5 Design and Drafting Standards

• Expert Understanding: SolidWorks Mechanical

• Expert Understanding: DraftSight

• Advanced Capability: Demonstrated people leadership skills with the ability to empower others to grow and deliver results.

• Advanced Capability: Application of Lean Methodologies to everyday activities for continual improvement practices (Green/Black Belt or equivalent experience).

Preferred Skills:

• Advanced Understanding: SolidWorks Electrical

• High-level Experience: Microsoft Excel for data analysis, reporting, and business case development.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Expert Understanding" designation for SolidWorks, DraftSight, and ASME Y14.5 signifies that candidates are expected to have deep, practical knowledge and be able to apply these skills without significant supervision. The "Advanced Capability" for leadership and Lean methodologies points to the need for proven experience in influencing teams and driving process improvements. The preference for a BS degree with less experience suggests that formal engineering education is valued, but extensive practical experience with an AAS is also considered equivalent.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrations of successful implementation of Knowledge-Based Engineering (KBE) principles, showcasing automation of design tasks and logic.

• Case studies detailing process optimization projects, highlighting the application of Lean methodologies (e.g., DIMAC, Kaizen) to improve efficiency and reduce cycle times.

• Examples of system governance and implementation, illustrating experience with PLM systems (like Agile PLM) or other complex design software suites.

• Documentation of cross-functional project leadership, particularly in driving system changes and integrating disparate teams (e.g., Design, IT, Simulation, Manufacturing).

Process Documentation:

• Ability to map and document complex engineering and design workflows, identifying bottlenecks and areas for automation.

• Proficiency in creating clear, concise, and actionable process documentation for system implementations, user guides, and training manuals.

• Experience in defining and measuring key performance indicators (KPIs) related to design process efficiency, cycle time, cost, and quality.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Senior Principal Designer role focused on KBE and process automation, a robust portfolio is crucial. It should not only showcase technical proficiency but also the ability to lead change, quantify impact, and drive adoption of new technologies and methodologies. Emphasis should be placed on quantifiable results and strategic contributions.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• The typical annual base salary for this position in Minnesota ranges from $90,000 to $153,300.

• This range represents the compensation for the entire job grade, and individual base pay will be determined by factors such as skills, qualifications, experience, and location.

Benefits:

• Multiple medical insurance plan options

• Dental insurance

• Vision insurance

• 401K retirement plan with employer match

• Paid time off (PTO)

• Company-paid holidays

• Paid sick time in accordance with federal, state, and local laws

Working Hours:

• The position is full-time, typically around 40 hours per week, with a hybrid work arrangement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided is specific to Minnesota. Candidates in other locations might see a different range. The inclusion of a bonus component is significant for total compensation. The benefits package is comprehensive, offering standard corporate benefits with a notable tuition reimbursement program.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) Manufacturing. Daikin Applied is a global leader in this sector, known for innovation in climate control solutions.

Company Size: Daikin Applied is part of Daikin Industries, a Fortune 1000 company and the world's largest HVAC manufacturer. This implies a large, established organization with significant resources and global reach.

Founded: Daikin Industries was founded in 1924, indicating a long history of experience and stability in the industry. Daikin Applied Americas operates as a key division within this global entity.

Team Structure:

• The role operates within the Engineering & Design organization, likely with a focus on product development.

• The Senior Principal Designer will lead cross-functional teams, implying collaboration with IT, Simulation, Integrated Supply Chain, Manufacturing Engineering, and potentially Product Management.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Decision Making: The role emphasizes quantifying financial and operational impacts and building business cases, indicating a strong reliance on data analysis.

• Lean Principles: Application of DIMAC, Kaizen, and CI activities points to a commitment to continuous process improvement and efficiency.

• Agile & Iterative Development: While not explicitly stated, the mention of Agile PLM and the drive for faster time-to-market suggest an adoption of agile principles in product development.

• Integrated Model Validation: Collaboration with simulation and operations teams highlights a holistic approach to product development, ensuring designs are validated early and often across disciplines.

Company Website: https://www.daikinapplied.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: Daikin Applied's position as the world's largest HVAC company suggests a stable, innovative, and resource-rich environment. The emphasis on Lean and data-driven approaches within the Engineering & Design team indicates a culture that values efficiency, continuous improvement, and measurable results. The hybrid work model is also a key aspect of the current work environment.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is at a Senior Principal level, representing a high level of expertise and leadership within the engineering design domain. It signifies a subject matter expert responsible for strategy, complex problem-solving, and driving significant technological advancements.

Reporting Structure: The role likely reports to a senior engineering leader (e.g., Director of Engineering, VP of Engineering). While leading cross-functional teams, direct reports are not specified but implied through leadership responsibilities.

Operations Impact: The role's primary impact is on accelerating product development cycles, improving the quality and efficiency of engineering designs, and reducing costs through automation and process optimization. This directly contributes to Daikin Applied's competitive advantage and market leadership in the HVAC industry.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in Knowledge-Based Engineering (KBE), automation, and advanced CAD/PLM systems, potentially becoming a recognized authority in these areas within the company.

• Leadership Development: Transition into formal management roles, leading larger teams or departments, by leveraging demonstrated people leadership and cross-functional influence skills.

• Strategic Influence: Contribute to the broader digital transformation strategy of Daikin Applied, influencing technology roadmaps and investment decisions for the entire engineering organization.

• Industry Recognition: Opportunity to contribute to industry standards and best practices through knowledge sharing and potential involvement in professional organizations.

• Cross-functional Mobility: Potential to move into roles in IT, Digital Transformation, or advanced manufacturing operations, leveraging a strong understanding of engineering processes and systems.

📝 Enhancement Note: The Senior Principal designation suggests a path towards technical leadership or senior management. The role offers significant opportunities for learning and applying cutting-edge technologies like KBE and advanced automation, which are highly valued in engineering operations. The company's size and global reach also provide ample avenues for career progression.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Hybrid work environment, with a primary presence at the Plymouth, MN Technology Center. This suggests a modern office facility equipped for design, engineering, and collaborative work.

Office Location(s): Plymouth, MN - Technology Center. This location is likely a hub for R&D, engineering, and design activities.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Spaces: The Technology Center likely features collaborative workspaces, meeting rooms, and potentially specialized labs or testing facilities to support cross-functional interaction.

• Technology-Rich Environment: Access to high-performance workstations, advanced design software (SolidWorks, DraftSight, Agile PLM), simulation tools, and potentially digital collaboration platforms.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities to engage with fellow designers, engineers, IT professionals, and operations teams, fostering knowledge sharing and problem-solving.

Work Schedule: Full-time, typically 40 hours per week. The hybrid arrangement allows for a blend of remote work flexibility and in-office collaboration, requiring individuals to manage their time effectively to meet both remote and on-site requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid model necessitates strong self-discipline and proactive communication. The Plymouth Technology Center is likely equipped with the necessary infrastructure to support both individual focused work and team-based collaboration, a common setup for advanced engineering roles.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or recruiter review of application and resume, focusing on alignment with core requirements (degree, experience, key software expertise).

• Hiring Manager Interview: Discussion of experience, leadership capabilities, understanding of KBE and Lean principles, and alignment with role responsibilities. Expect questions about past projects and problem-solving approaches.

• Technical/Team Interview: In-depth technical assessment, potentially involving a case study or problem-solving exercise. This stage will likely involve senior engineers and designers who will evaluate your expertise in SolidWorks, ASME standards, and KBE concepts. A portfolio review is highly probable here.

• Cross-Functional Interview: Meeting with stakeholders from IT, Simulation, or Operations to assess collaboration skills, communication effectiveness, and understanding of integrated processes.

• Final Interview: Potentially with a senior leader (e.g., Director/VP) to discuss strategic fit, leadership potential, and overall alignment with company culture and goals.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Showcase KBE Automation: Include specific examples of designs or processes you've automated using logic code or KBE principles. Quantify the time savings or efficiency gains achieved.

• Detail Process Improvement Projects: Present 1-2 case studies detailing how you applied Lean methodologies (Kaizen, DIMAC) to improve an engineering design process. Clearly outline the problem, your solution, the implementation, and the measurable results (e.g., reduced cycle time, fewer errors, cost savings).

• Highlight System Implementation Experience: Demonstrate your role in implementing or significantly improving design systems (PLM, CAD). Focus on your contribution to requirements gathering, cross-functional collaboration, and user adoption.

• Quantify Impact: For every project presented, emphasize the quantifiable business impact (e.g., ROI, cost reduction, efficiency increase, time-to-market improvement).

• Structure and Clarity: Organize your portfolio logically, with clear titles, concise descriptions, and impactful visuals where appropriate. Be prepared to walk through specific examples and answer detailed questions about your contributions.

Challenge Preparation:

• KBE Automation Scenario: Be prepared for a hypothetical scenario where you need to automate a specific design task. Outline your approach, the tools you'd use, potential challenges, and how you'd measure success.

• Lean Process Improvement Challenge: You might be asked to identify inefficiencies in a given design process and propose Lean solutions. Focus on structured problem-solving and practical implementation steps.

• Cross-functional Collaboration Scenario: Prepare examples of how you've successfully collaborated with diverse teams (e.g., IT, Manufacturing) to achieve a common goal, especially concerning system or process changes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Senior Principal" title and focus on KBE and process improvement means the interview process will be rigorous, likely involving technical deep dives and strategic discussions. A well-prepared portfolio demonstrating tangible results and leadership is critical.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD Software:

  • SolidWorks Mechanical (Expert Understanding): Core tool for 3D design and modeling. Proficiency in advanced features, assembly management, and potentially custom tool development.
  • DraftSight (Expert Understanding): Primarily for 2D drafting and potentially integration with other CAD workflows.
  • SolidWorks Electrical (Advanced Understanding): For electrical design aspects, schematic creation, and integration with mechanical designs.

• PLM System:

  • Agile PLM: Expected to have a strong understanding of its capabilities for product lifecycle management, data governance, and workflow automation.

• Automation & Logic:

  • Knowledge-Based Engineering (KBE) Tools/Logic Code: The core of the role involves converting rules into automated logic for design generation. This could involve proprietary KBE software, scripting (e.g., Python, VBA within SolidWorks), or specific module functionalities.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Microsoft Excel (High-level): Essential for data analysis, creating business cases, financial modeling, and reporting on process performance metrics.

• Business Intelligence Tools (Implied): While not explicitly mentioned, experience with BI tools for data visualization and dashboard creation would be beneficial for presenting process impact.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM Systems (General Understanding): While not a direct CRM role, understanding how design data integrates with CRM or ERP systems might be relevant for downstream processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: Expertise in SolidWorks Mechanical and DraftSight at an expert level is non-negotiable. The emphasis on KBE and logic code development is a key differentiator, requiring candidates to demonstrate practical experience in automating design tasks. Familiarity with Agile PLM is also critical.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Innovation & Continuous Improvement: A core value, demonstrated by the focus on Lean methodologies (DIMAC, Kaizen), process optimization, and driving digital advancement.

• Excellence & Quality: Commitment to high standards in engineering design, product development, and system implementation, as evidenced by expert requirements in ASME standards and rigorous validation processes.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Emphasis on cross-functional leadership and partnership with IT, Simulation, and Operations teams, fostering a supportive and integrated work environment.

• Efficiency & Cost-Effectiveness: Driving value through automation, process streamlining, and building strong business cases for investment, aligning operations with financial goals.

• Safety & Compliance: Adherence to safety policies and regulations, ensuring responsible operational practices.

Collaboration Style:

• Influence-Based Leadership: The role requires leading through influence, building consensus, and resolving conflicts among peers and stakeholders across different departments.

• Proactive Communication: Essential for success in a hybrid environment and for driving complex, cross-functional projects. Clear and consistent communication ensures alignment and buy-in.

• Knowledge Sharing: Encouraging a culture where technical knowledge, process improvements, and best practices are shared openly among team members and across the organization.

• Data-Driven Dialogue: Engaging in discussions and decision-making based on data, analysis, and quantifiable results, fostering a transparent and objective approach to problem-solving.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture appears to value technical expertise, a drive for efficiency, and collaborative problem-solving. The "leadership through influence" aspect suggests a need for strong interpersonal and negotiation skills, essential for driving change in a large organization.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Driving Change in a Large Organization: Implementing new processes, tools, and automation technologies across a large engineering department can face resistance. Overcoming this requires strong change management, communication, and stakeholder engagement skills.

• Balancing Strategic Vision with Tactical Execution: The role demands both a high-level strategic view of engineering process advancement and the hands-on ability to develop logic code and implement system improvements.

• Integrating Disparate Systems: Ensuring seamless integration between CAD, PLM, simulation tools, and potentially ERP/MES systems requires deep technical understanding and robust IT partnerships.

• Keeping Pace with Technology: The rapid evolution of design software, automation technologies, and digital engineering practices necessitates continuous learning and adaptation.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced KBE & Automation Training: Opportunities to deepen expertise in cutting-edge automation techniques and KBE platforms, potentially through external training or certifications.

• Leadership and Change Management Programs: Daikin Applied likely offers internal development programs to enhance leadership, communication, and project management skills, crucial for driving organizational change.

• Industry Conferences & Workshops: Participation in HVAC industry events or engineering technology conferences to stay abreast of innovations and network with peers.

• Mentorship: Access to senior leaders and subject matter experts within Daikin Applied for guidance and career development.

• Cross-Functional Exposure: Opportunities to work on projects that span across different departments, broadening understanding of the entire product lifecycle and business operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are typical for a senior role focused on transformation. The growth opportunities are substantial, offering a clear path for technical leaders to expand their influence and skill sets within a global organization.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you successfully implemented a significant process improvement in an engineering design environment. What methodologies did you use, and what were the quantifiable results?" (Focus on Lean, KBE, and impact).

• "How would you approach developing a business case for investing in new automation software or a major system upgrade for our design teams? What key metrics would you prioritize?" (Highlight financial analysis, ROI, and stakeholder buy-in).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "Based on your understanding of Daikin Applied and the HVAC industry, where do you see the biggest opportunities for applying KBE and automation within our product development process?" (Showcase research and strategic thinking).

• "How do you foster a culture of continuous improvement and innovation within a technical team, especially in a hybrid work setting?" (Address leadership style and adapting to modern work environments).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Organize your portfolio into clear sections: KBE Automation, Process Improvement, System Implementation, Leadership.

• Storytelling: For each project, tell a compelling story: the challenge, your role and approach, the solution implemented, and the measurable positive outcomes.

• Quantify Everything: Use specific numbers, percentages, and dollar figures to demonstrate impact.

• Visual Aids: Use diagrams, flowcharts, screenshots, or brief video clips (if appropriate and secure) to illustrate complex processes or automated designs.

• Be Prepared for Deep Dives: Anticipate detailed questions about your technical contributions, decision-making process, and challenges encountered.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interviewers will be looking for a combination of deep technical expertise (SolidWorks, ASME, KBE), proven leadership in driving change, and a strong business acumen to justify investments and measure impact. Your portfolio is your primary tool to demonstrate these capabilities.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the Daikin Applied Careers portal via the provided job link.

• Tailor Your Resume: Ensure your resume prominently highlights your expertise in SolidWorks Mechanical, DraftSight, ASME Y14.5 standards, Lean methodologies, and any KBE or automation experience. Use action verbs and quantify achievements whenever possible.

• Curate Your Portfolio: Prepare a digital portfolio that showcases your best work in process improvement, system implementation, and KBE automation. Focus on case studies with quantifiable results and clear explanations of your role and impact.

• Practice Your Presentation: Rehearse presenting your portfolio, focusing on clear, concise explanations and the ability to answer detailed technical and strategic questions. Practice articulating the business value of your projects.

• Research Daikin Applied: Understand their products, market position, and any recent innovations or initiatives related to digital transformation or engineering excellence. This will help you tailor your responses and demonstrate genuine interest.

⚠️ 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.