Lead Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Lead Designer

Company: Eaton Corporation

Location: Greenwood, South Carolina, US

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: Engineering / Design Operations

Date Posted: August 04, 2026

Experience Level: 2-5 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Execute engineered-to-order (ETO) design tasks utilizing advanced 2D and 3D CAD software, ensuring adherence to customer specifications and product standards.

• Manage the creation and accuracy of Bills of Material (BOMs) and process engineering change notices (ECNs) to maintain design integrity and production efficiency.

• Provide technical guidance and support to cross-functional teams including ETO Engineers, Application/Proposal Engineers, Marketing, Sales, and shop floor personnel.

• Contribute to the development and refinement of department processes, procedures, and work instructions to drive continuous improvement in design operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a Lead Designer within Eaton's Electrical Division, indicating a need for strong technical design skills coupled with the ability to mentor and guide junior engineers. The emphasis on ETO solutions suggests a dynamic environment where custom designs are the norm, requiring adaptability and problem-solving expertise.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Perform detailed 2D and 3D CAD design work for engineered-to-order (ETO) products, adhering strictly to customer requirements and internal engineering standards.

• Generate accurate Bills of Materials (BOMs) and manage the processing of engineering change notices (ECNs) for configured and custom products.

• Review customer specifications, quotes, and purchase orders thoroughly to identify technical requirements that may impact design decisions and structural integrity.

• Create construction drawings based on engineer's sketches and references, ensuring all necessary details for manufacturing and assembly are included.

• Collaborate with Structural Engineers to determine appropriate member sizes, ensure structural soundness, and translate these into detailed drawings and BOMs with correct fit-up specifications.

• Select or create buyout specifications for components based on descriptions provided in customer quotes and specifications, liaising with the purchasing department.

• Support ETO Engineers during customer calls, providing technical insights and design clarifications as needed.

• Take a proactive role in the development and updating of departmental processes, procedures, and work instructions, contributing to operational excellence.

• Provide guidance and technical direction to ETO Engineers, Application/Proposal Engineers, Marketing, Sales, and shop floor personnel.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of hands-on design execution and leadership/mentorship. The role requires deep understanding of CAD tools, BOM management, and customer specification interpretation, alongside the ability to influence process improvements and guide team members.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Associate’s degree in Engineering from an accredited institution.

Experience:

• Minimum of two years of work experience in mechanical design, specifically utilizing 3D modeling software such as Inventor.

• Demonstrated ability to create 2D and 3D CAD drawings, Bills of Materials, and Engineering Change Notices.

• Proven experience in reviewing customer specifications and translating them into design requirements. Required Skills:

• Proficiency in 2D and 3D CAD software, including a strong command of Autodesk Inventor.

• Experience with AutoCAD for 2D drafting and design tasks.

• Familiarity with enterprise systems such as SAP for order processing and material management.

• Knowledge of Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) systems for managing design data and revisions.

• Ability to create and manage accurate Bills of Material (BOMs) for complex products.

• Skill in processing and documenting engineering change notices (ECNs) to reflect design modifications.

• Strong understanding of mechanical design principles and their application in product development.

• Ability to interpret and apply customer specifications and technical requirements to design work. Preferred Skills:

• Experience in structural design and analysis, ensuring the integrity of engineered components.

• Familiarity with product engineering procedures and best practices.

• Ability to perform basic engineering calculations and computations.

• Experience in supporting sales and proposal engineering teams with technical design information.

• Understanding of manufacturing processes and shop floor operations to ensure designs are manufacturable.

• Project management skills for handling moderate to complex ETO solutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Preferred Qualifications" strongly suggest that candidates with direct experience in 3D modeling software like Inventor and a background in mechanical design will be most competitive. The requirement for an Associate's degree in Engineering is a foundational requirement, and the preference for experience indicates a need for practical, hands-on design capabilities.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrate proficiency in creating detailed 2D and 3D CAD models and technical drawings, showcasing complex assemblies and components.

• Include examples of accurate Bills of Material (BOMs) generated for engineered-to-order (ETO) products, highlighting the process of component selection and specification.

• Present case studies of engineering change notices (ECNs) processed, illustrating the ability to manage design revisions and their impact on production.

• Showcase your approach to interpreting and applying customer specifications, demonstrating how requirements are translated into design solutions and design documentation. Process Documentation:

• Provide examples of how you document design processes, including workflow diagrams for ETO projects from order receipt to completion.

• Illustrate your experience in developing and updating department processes, procedures, and work instructions, emphasizing efficiency and clarity.

• Showcase your understanding of system integration, particularly how CAD, SAP, and PLM systems are utilized in your design workflow.

📝 Enhancement Note: While not explicitly stated, a strong portfolio showcasing practical design work, BOM creation, and ECN management is crucial for a "Lead Designer" role. Candidates should be prepared to walk through their design process and demonstrate how they ensure accuracy and adherence to specifications.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $56,000 - $83,000 per year.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health and Welfare benefits packages.

• Retirement benefits designed to support long-term financial security.

• Generous Paid Time Off (PTO) to ensure work-life balance.

• Unpaid time off options for extended personal needs.

Working Hours: Approximately 40 hours per week, standard business hours.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided is a general guideline and actual compensation will be based on candidate skills, experience, qualifications, market conditions, and business considerations. The benefits package is typical for a large corporation like Eaton, emphasizing support for employee well-being and financial planning.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Electrical components, industrial equipment, and power management solutions. Eaton Corporation is a global leader in electrical, aerospace, hydraulic, and vehicle sectors, known for its commitment to innovation and sustainability.

Company Size: Eaton Corporation is a large, multinational corporation, employing over 90,000 people globally. This size indicates a structured environment with established processes and significant career development opportunities.

Founded: Eaton Corporation was founded in 1911, signifying a long history of industrial expertise, stability, and a deep understanding of its markets.

Team Structure:

• The Lead Designer will be part of the Electrical Division, specifically within the team responsible for Engineered-to-Order (ETO) solutions in Greenwood, SC.

• This role involves collaboration with ETO Engineers, Application Engineers, Proposal Engineers, Marketing, Sales, and shop floor personnel, suggesting a cross-functional team dynamic.

• The reporting structure likely involves a direct manager (e.g., ETO Engineering Manager, Master Designer) and provides guidance to other engineers and designers. Methodology:

• Design work is performed using established CAD tools and processes, with a focus on accuracy and adherence to customer specifications.

• Emphasis is placed on understanding and utilizing existing computer systems (SAP, PLM) for order status tracking and data management.

• Continuous improvement is encouraged, with the Lead Designer expected to contribute to updating department processes and work instructions.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Eaton's long history and global presence suggest a culture that values experience, reliability, and structured processes. The focus on ETO solutions implies a problem-solving orientation and a commitment to meeting unique customer needs.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is classified as a "Lead Designer," typically falling within an intermediate to senior level for design professionals. It requires not only technical proficiency but also the ability to guide and influence others, indicating a step towards leadership responsibilities.

Reporting Structure: The Lead Designer will report to a Master Designer or ETO Engineer, with moderate supervision. This structure allows for independent decision-making within defined parameters while ensuring oversight and validation from more senior personnel.

Operations Impact: The Lead Designer's work directly impacts the successful delivery of custom electrical solutions. Accurate designs, BOMs, and adherence to specifications are critical for manufacturing efficiency, product quality, customer satisfaction, and ultimately, the revenue generated from ETO projects.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Advance to become a Master Designer or Senior ETO Engineer, taking on more complex projects and design challenges.

• Process Improvement Leadership: Lead initiatives to optimize design workflows, implement new tools, or develop training materials for the design team.

• Cross-Functional Mobility: Develop a deeper understanding of sales, proposal, and manufacturing processes, potentially leading to roles in project management or operations management.

• Mentorship & Training: Formalize the leadership aspect by becoming a primary mentor for junior designers and engineers within the ETO team.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Lead" title suggests a clear path for growth into more senior technical or management roles within Eaton's extensive engineering organization. The emphasis on process improvement also opens doors for individuals interested in operational efficiency.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This position is based at Eaton's Greenwood, SC facility. It is an on-site role, requiring the individual to work from the company's physical location.

Office Location(s): Greenwood, South Carolina, USA. The company notes that only candidates residing within 50 miles of Greenwood, SC will be considered, with exceptions for active duty military.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace will likely involve an office environment equipped with the necessary CAD workstations and software.

• Close proximity to ETO Engineers, Application/Proposal Engineers, and shop floor personnel will facilitate frequent collaboration and communication.

• Access to relevant systems like SAP and PLM will be integral to daily tasks, supporting efficient data management and order processing.

Work Schedule: The role is full-time, with approximately 40 working hours per week. Standard business hours are expected, though the dynamic nature of ETO projects might occasionally require flexibility.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement and geographical limitation highlight the need for local candidates or those willing to relocate without company assistance. The collaborative nature of the workspace suggests an environment where teamwork and direct communication are valued.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Application review focusing on qualifications, experience, and alignment with required skills (Associate's degree in Engineering, CAD proficiency, ETO experience).

• Technical Interview: Likely to involve in-depth questions about CAD software (Inventor, AutoCAD), BOM creation, ECN processing, and understanding of mechanical/structural design principles. You may be asked to discuss specific projects from your portfolio.

• Portfolio Review: Candidates will be expected to present and discuss examples from their design portfolio, demonstrating their approach to problem-solving, technical execution, and adherence to specifications. Focus on how you translated customer needs into functional designs.

• Behavioral/Situational Interview: Questions will assess your ability to provide guidance, collaborate with cross-functional teams, manage complexity, and contribute to process improvement. Questions about how you handle challenging design decisions or conflicts may arise.

• Final Interview: May involve meeting with higher-level management or a panel to assess overall fit with the team and company culture.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Showcase ETO Examples: Highlight projects where you designed custom solutions based on specific customer requirements. Detail the problem, your design approach, the tools used, and the outcome.

• Quantify Achievements: Where possible, quantify the impact of your designs (e.g., reduced manufacturing time, improved material efficiency, met stringent performance metrics).

• Demonstrate Process Understanding: Clearly articulate your process for creating BOMs, managing ECNs, and interpreting technical specifications.

• Highlight Collaboration: Include examples of how you worked with engineers, sales, or manufacturing teams to achieve design goals.

• Technical Depth: Be prepared to discuss the technical aspects of your designs, including material selection, structural considerations, and CAD modeling techniques.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be ready to discuss common challenges in ETO design, such as scope creep, tight deadlines, or conflicting requirements, and how you address them.

• Prepare to explain your process for ensuring design accuracy and preventing errors in BOMs and drawings.

• Consider how you would guide a less experienced designer through a complex design task.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Lead" aspect of the title suggests that interviewers will be looking for not just technical skill, but also leadership potential and the ability to mentor. A strong portfolio that showcases problem-solving and process-driven design will be key.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• 2D CAD: AutoCAD (for general drafting and legacy support)

• 3D CAD: Autodesk Inventor (primary tool for mechanical design, modeling, and assemblies)

• BOM Management: Integrated within CAD/PLM systems, potentially with SAP integration.

• Product Data Management (PDM/PLM): Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) system for managing design data, revisions, and workflows.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not explicitly listed for this design role, understanding how design data feeds into SAP and other enterprise systems for reporting on order status, material costs, and project timelines is beneficial. CRM & Automation:

• SAP: Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system used for order processing, Bill of Material (BOM) management, and material requirements planning.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in Autodesk Inventor and AutoCAD is a core technical requirement. Familiarity with SAP and PLM systems is critical for understanding the broader context of ETO order processing and design data management.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer Focus: Delivering engineered-to-order solutions that precisely meet customer specifications and performance requirements.

• Technical Excellence: Upholding high standards in design accuracy, structural integrity, and manufacturability.

• Continuous Improvement: Actively seeking ways to enhance design processes, documentation, and team efficiency.

• Collaboration: Working effectively with cross-functional teams to ensure seamless project execution from order to delivery.

• Integrity: Adhering to ethical standards and company policies in all design and decision-making processes.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Expect close collaboration with ETO Engineers, Application Engineers, Sales, Marketing, and shop floor personnel.

• Process-Oriented: Emphasis on following and improving established departmental processes and work instructions.

• Knowledge Sharing: Encouraging the sharing of technical expertise and best practices within the design team and with other departments.

📝 Enhancement Note: Eaton's culture likely emphasizes a blend of technical rigor and collaborative problem-solving, fitting for an ETO environment where custom solutions require input from various stakeholders.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Design Complexity: Handling a variety of customer specifications and technical requirements for ETO products, ensuring each design is accurate and compliant.

• Meeting Deadlines: Balancing the demands of multiple complex projects with tight turnaround times, requiring efficient time management and prioritization.

• Interdepartmental Coordination: Effectively communicating and coordinating with sales, engineering, and manufacturing to resolve design issues and ensure smooth project flow.

• Process Evolution: Adapting to and contributing to the evolution of departmental processes and adopting new tools or methodologies.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced CAD & Design Techniques: Deepen expertise in Inventor and other design tools, exploring advanced modeling, simulation, or rendering capabilities.

• Product Knowledge Expansion: Gain in-depth knowledge of Eaton's electrical product portfolio and its applications across various industries.

• Leadership & Mentorship Training: Develop skills in guiding junior team members, providing constructive feedback, and leading design reviews.

• Process Improvement Methodologies: Learn and apply techniques for optimizing engineering workflows, potentially leading to roles focused on operational efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role offers significant opportunities for professional growth by tackling complex engineering challenges and contributing to process improvements, paving the way for more senior technical or leadership positions.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex ETO design project you led. What were the key challenges, and how did you overcome them?" (Focus on your problem-solving, technical approach, and collaboration.)

• "How do you ensure accuracy in your Bills of Material (BOMs) and drawings, especially when dealing with custom specifications?" (Highlight your meticulousness, review processes, and use of tools.)

• "Walk me through your process for reviewing customer specifications and translating them into actionable design requirements." (Demonstrate your analytical skills and understanding of design inputs.)

• "How would you guide a junior designer through creating a complex assembly in Inventor?" (Showcase your mentorship and technical guidance capabilities.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Eaton Corporation and its role in the electrical industry?" (Research Eaton's products, markets, and recent news.)

• "How do you approach collaborating with sales or manufacturing teams when there are design discrepancies or technical challenges?" (Emphasize communication, problem-solving, and finding mutually agreeable solutions.)

• "How do you stay updated on the latest design tools and engineering best practices?" (Show your commitment to continuous learning.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Examples: For each portfolio piece, clearly outline the problem, your proposed solution, the tools and methods used, and the quantifiable results or benefits.

• Focus on ETO: Prioritize examples that demonstrate your ability to handle custom designs and complex requirements.

• Highlight Leadership: If possible, include examples where you took a lead role in a design or mentored others.

• Be Ready to Discuss Details: Be prepared to answer detailed questions about your design choices, software usage, and problem-solving approaches.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the "Lead" title, interviewers will likely probe your ability to not just perform design tasks but also to lead, mentor, and improve processes. Your portfolio should reflect this potential.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Lead Designer position at Eaton Corporation:

• Submit your application directly through the Eaton careers portal via the provided link.

• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your experience with ETO projects, proficiency in Inventor and AutoCAD, and any experience in guiding junior designers. Prepare a portfolio that showcases your best 2D/3D CAD work, BOM examples, and ECN processing.

• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly lists your Associate's degree in Engineering and any relevant certifications. Quantify achievements in previous roles, particularly those related to design accuracy, efficiency, or problem-solving.

• Interview Preparation: Practice answering common interview questions related to technical design, ETO processes, and leadership. Be ready to present specific examples from your portfolio and discuss your approach to collaborative work.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Eaton Corporation's products, values, and recent achievements. Understand the specific focus of the Electrical Division and the Greenwood, SC facility to articulate your interest and fit.

⚠️ 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.