Technical Product Designer - Mast Development

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Technical Product Designer - Mast Development

Company: Jungheinrich Business Service Croatia d.o.o.

Location: Zagreb, Croatia (Hrvatska)

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Engineering / Product Design / Manufacturing Operations

Date Posted: 2026-05-14

Experience Level: Mid-Level (2-5 Years)

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Design and model mechanical components and welded assemblies for forklift masts using 3D CAD software, ensuring precision and adherence to engineering standards.

• Generate comprehensive technical documentation, including 2D drawings, bills of materials (BOMs), and assembly instructions, to support manufacturing and procurement processes.

• Coordinate effectively with cross-functional teams such as procurement, quality assurance, and production planning to ensure seamless integration of mast development into the wider manufacturing ecosystem.

• Analyze and resolve technical issues identified during production or in the field, collaborating with the German development center for complex problem-solving and knowledge transfer.

• Implement serial changes and customer options according to established Jungheinrich change management processes, maintaining product integrity and compliance.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is focused on the physical design and engineering of forklift masts, deeply embedded within the manufacturing operations of Jungheinrich. The "Mast Development" aspect indicates a specialization within product engineering, requiring a strong understanding of mechanical design, materials, and manufacturing processes. The hybrid work arrangement suggests a need for on-site presence for hands-on design, prototyping, and collaboration, balanced with remote flexibility.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Develop detailed 3D CAD models and precise 2D technical drawings for forklift mast components, welded assemblies, and related sub-systems.

• Create and maintain accurate bills of materials (BOMs) and other essential documentation for procurement, production, and service departments.

• Specify and dimension critical mast components, including profiles, rollers, chains, and hydraulic elements, ensuring they meet performance and durability requirements.

• Collaborate with the procurement department to prepare necessary documentation for component sourcing and manage vendor relationships for specialized parts.

• Interface with quality assurance teams to ensure all designs comply with Jungheinrich's quality standards and relevant industry regulations.

• Coordinate with production planning to integrate new designs and changes into manufacturing workflows, optimizing for efficiency and manufacturability.

• Investigate technical challenges arising from production or field applications, providing robust solutions and supporting the implementation of corrective actions.

• Manage and incorporate serial changes and customer-specific options (Cust Options) into existing designs, following the defined Jungheinrich change management process.

• Support the assembly, testing, and commissioning of prototype mast systems, providing technical expertise and troubleshooting assistance.

• Contribute to the continuous improvement of mast design and manufacturing processes based on feedback from production, quality, and field service.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary responsibilities highlight a hands-on engineering role with significant cross-functional collaboration. The emphasis on "interface coordination" and "analysis of technical problems" points to a need for strong problem-solving and communication skills, crucial for a successful operations professional in this context.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Industrial or academic education as a Technical Product Designer, Design/Development Engineer, or a closely related engineering field.

Experience:

• Practical experience in mechanical design and product development, with a focus on components and assemblies.

• Experience in the forklift or heavy machinery industry is highly desirable.

Required Skills:

• Proficiency in 3D CAD systems, with a strong preference for CATIA; Siemens NX experience is also highly valued.

• Solid understanding of mechanical design fundamentals, including machinery elements, steel specification, and mechanical processing technologies.

• Expertise in designing and specifying welded assemblies, with knowledge of welding technologies.

• Ability to dimension and specify various forklift mast components, such as profiles, rollers, chains, and hydraulic systems.

• Experience in creating detailed technical 2D drawings, bills of materials (BOMs), and assembly instructions.

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills to address technical challenges in production and field applications.

• Fluent technical English language proficiency for effective communication with international teams and documentation.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with PLM/PDM systems, particularly Siemens Teamcenter.

• Basic experience with ERP systems, such as SAP R/3 (MM module).

• Knowledge of endurance testing technologies and methodologies.

• Familiarity with hydraulic systems and components relevant to forklift masts.

• German language proficiency is a significant asset for smoother collaboration with the German development center.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications emphasize a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical application in mechanical design and CAD. The preference for CATIA and experience with PLM/PDM systems like Teamcenter are critical for candidates to highlight, as these are standard tools in complex product development environments. The mention of SAP R/3 (MM module) indicates a need for understanding procurement and material management processes within a large enterprise.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase at least two detailed case studies demonstrating the complete design lifecycle of a mechanical component or assembly, from initial concept to final production documentation.

• Include examples of 3D CAD models and 2D technical drawings, highlighting your proficiency in specified CAD software (e.g., CATIA, Siemens NX).

• Present a clear Bill of Materials (BOM) structure for a complex assembly, illustrating your understanding of material management and procurement documentation.

• Demonstrate your ability to document technical specifications for components, including material properties, manufacturing processes (e.g., welding), and performance requirements.

Process Documentation:

• Illustrate your approach to designing and modeling mechanical components and welded assemblies, detailing the steps from requirement gathering to final design release.

• Provide examples of how you coordinate with cross-functional teams (e.g., procurement, production, QA) during the design process, emphasizing communication and integration strategies.

• Show how you incorporate serial changes and customer options into designs, explaining the change management process you follow.

• Detail your experience in supporting prototype builds, testing, and commissioning, including how you document findings and recommendations.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Technical Product Designer role, a portfolio is crucial. It should not just display technical skills but also process thinking. Candidates need to show how they manage design projects, collaborate, and solve problems, aligning with the core responsibilities of integrating designs into operational workflows. Evidence of working with PLM/PDM systems in a portfolio context would be highly beneficial.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Based on regional benchmarks for experienced Technical Product Designers in Zagreb, Croatia, with proficiency in CATIA/Siemens NX and experience in mechanical design, the estimated salary range is €35,000 - €55,000 annually. This estimate accounts for the specific technical skills required, the mid-level experience expected, and the cost of living in Zagreb.

Benefits:

• Attractive salary package commensurate with qualifications and experience.

• Flexible working hours, allowing for better work-life integration.

• Opportunity for remote work (hybrid model), offering flexibility in work location.

• Comprehensive language courses to enhance professional and personal development.

• Health and recreation benefits to support employee well-being.

• Family incentives designed to support employees with family responsibilities.

• Complimentary healthy snacks and coffee available in a modern office environment.

• Numerous internal events fostering team cohesion and a positive social atmosphere.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time employment, typically around 40 hours per week.

• Flexible working hours are offered, allowing employees to adjust their start and end times within defined parameters, promoting autonomy and a better work-life balance.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on general market data for engineering roles in Croatia and the specific technical requirements of the job. The benefits package is comprehensive, focusing on employee well-being, professional development, and work-life balance, which are attractive aspects for operations professionals seeking stability and growth.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Industrial Machinery & Equipment (Intralogistics Solutions)

Company Size: Jungheinrich is a global leader in material handling equipment, high-density storage, and logistics solutions. While the specific size of the Zagreb business unit is not detailed, Jungheinrich AG as a whole employs over 20,000 people worldwide, indicating a large, established, and reputable organization. This scale offers stability and resources for complex projects.

Founded: Jungheinrich was founded in 1953, bringing decades of experience and innovation to the intralogistics sector. This long history suggests a company with deep expertise, established processes, and a commitment to long-term development.

Team Structure:

• The role is within the "Mast Development" team, suggesting a specialized engineering group focused on a critical component of forklift technology.

• This team likely consists of mechanical engineers, design engineers, and technicians who collaborate closely on product design and refinement.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Design: While not explicitly stated, modern product development relies heavily on data, including performance metrics from field applications, simulation results, and material science data.

• Process Optimization: The emphasis on "change process," "analysis of technical problems," and "incorporation of serial changes" points to a structured approach to product lifecycle management and continuous improvement.

• Collaborative Development: The need for "interface coordination" and "support from development center in Germany" highlights a collaborative, team-oriented approach to complex engineering challenges.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Jungheinrich's heritage and global presence suggest a company that values robust engineering practices, quality, and innovation. The "Mast Development" specialization indicates a focus on core competencies. The collaborative nature of the role, particularly with the German development center, implies a culture that embraces knowledge sharing and international teamwork.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned at a mid-level within the product design and engineering track. It requires a solid foundation in mechanical design principles and practical experience with CAD tools, along with the ability to work independently on specific component designs and troubleshoot issues. It's a step beyond entry-level design work, demanding problem-solving and cross-functional coordination.

Reporting Structure: The Technical Product Designer likely reports to a Lead Design Engineer, Engineering Manager, or Head of Product Development for the mast division. They will collaborate closely with peers within the mast development team and interface with managers and specialists in procurement, production, and quality assurance.

Operations Impact: The work of a Technical Product Designer directly impacts the performance, reliability, and cost-effectiveness of Jungheinrich's forklift masts. Well-designed masts contribute to efficient warehouse operations, reduced maintenance costs, and enhanced customer satisfaction. By ensuring robust designs and smooth integration with manufacturing, this role plays a vital part in Jungheinrich's overall product quality and market competitiveness.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in forklift mast design, hydraulics, or specific material science applications.

• Advanced Design Roles: Progress to Senior Technical Product Designer or Lead Design Engineer roles, taking on more complex projects and leadership responsibilities.

• Cross-Functional Transition: Move into roles in Production Engineering, Quality Assurance, or Project Management, leveraging design knowledge to optimize broader operational processes.

• International Mobility: Potential for opportunities within Jungheinrich's global engineering network, especially with German language skills.

• Technical Leadership: Develop into a subject matter expert (SME) for specific mast components or design methodologies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth path for a Technical Product Designer often involves deepening technical expertise in a specific domain or broadening scope into management or other operational functions. Highlighting a desire for continuous learning and problem-solving will resonate well with the company's implied culture of innovation and development.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The job description mentions a "brand-new office in Zagreb" with "healthy snack and coffee for free." This suggests a modern, well-equipped workspace designed for employee comfort and productivity. The "hybrid" work arrangement indicates a balance between on-site collaboration and remote flexibility.

Office Location(s): The primary office location is Zagreb, Croatia. Specific details about the office's accessibility or amenities would typically be provided during the interview process, but a new office usually implies good facilities.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Hub: The office environment likely facilitates direct collaboration with colleagues on technical drawings, design reviews, and problem-solving sessions. The "first-name culture" suggests an informal and approachable atmosphere.

• Tools & Technology: Access to industry-standard CAD software (CATIA, Siemens NX), PLM/PDM systems (Teamcenter), and potentially ERP systems (SAP R/3) is expected, alongside standard office IT infrastructure.

• Team Interaction: Regular opportunities to engage with the mast development team, as well as cross-functional stakeholders from procurement, production, and quality assurance.

Work Schedule:

• Full-time role with flexible working hours. This allows for personal scheduling needs while ensuring core business hours are covered for collaboration and meetings. The hybrid nature means a portion of the work can be done remotely, offering autonomy.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a "brand-new office" and "flexible working hours" points to a company that invests in its employee experience. For operations roles, having a well-equipped workspace and the flexibility to manage one's time is crucial for focused work and efficient task completion.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your CV and portfolio to assess technical qualifications, CAD proficiency, and relevant experience.

• Technical Interview: This stage will likely involve detailed questions about your mechanical design knowledge, experience with CAD software (CATIA/NX), and understanding of manufacturing processes (welding, machining). Be prepared to discuss specific projects from your portfolio.

• Case Study/Technical Challenge: You might be given a problem or a component design task to solve, either on-site or as a take-home assignment. This will assess your problem-solving skills, design methodology, and ability to apply your technical knowledge.

• Team/Hiring Manager Interview: An opportunity to discuss your experience in more detail, assess your cultural fit with the team and company, and understand your motivations. Questions about collaboration and working in a hybrid environment are probable.

• Final Interview: Potentially with a senior leader, focusing on your career aspirations and long-term fit within Jungheinrich.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Focus on 2-3 of your strongest projects that best demonstrate your skills in mechanical design, CAD modeling, technical drawing, and problem-solving, particularly those related to complex assemblies or components.

• Highlight Process: For each project, clearly explain the problem statement, your design approach, the tools and technologies used (especially CATIA/NX and any PLM/PDM experience), challenges faced, solutions implemented, and the final outcome (e.g., improved efficiency, reduced cost, enhanced performance).

• Quantify Results: Wherever possible, use metrics to demonstrate the impact of your work. For example, "reduced assembly time by X%," "improved component durability by Y%," or "successfully integrated Z customer options."

• Technical Documentation Examples: Include clear examples of 2D drawings, BOMs, and any other relevant technical documentation you've created. Ensure they are legible and professionally presented.

• Be Ready to Discuss: Be prepared to walk through your portfolio items verbally, elaborating on your role, contributions, and decision-making process.

Challenge Preparation:

• Review Fundamentals: Brush up on mechanical design principles, strength of materials, welding technologies, and common manufacturing processes.

• CAD Proficiency: Practice basic to intermediate modeling techniques in CATIA or Siemens NX if you have experience. If you are stronger in one, be prepared to explain how you would adapt to the other.

• Problem-Solving Framework: Familiarize yourself with structured problem-solving methodologies (e.g., root cause analysis, design thinking) and be ready to apply them to a hypothetical scenario.

• Understand Jungheinrich: Research Jungheinrich's products, particularly their forklift masts, and understand the general landscape of the intralogistics industry.

📝 Enhancement Note: The application process emphasizes practical skills and the ability to demonstrate them through a portfolio and potential technical challenges. Candidates should prepare to articulate their design process, problem-solving approach, and collaborative experience, aligning these with the specific needs of mast development.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• 3D CAD Systems: CATIA (preferred), Siemens NX (welcome). Proficiency in at least one is essential for design and modeling.

• 2D CAD Software: For creating technical drawings and documentation derived from 3D models.

• Mechanical Design Software: Tools for simulation, analysis (e.g., stress analysis), and material property management.

Analytics & Reporting:

• PLM/PDM Systems: Siemens Teamcenter (advantageous). Used for managing product data, revisions, and workflows throughout the product lifecycle.

• Bill of Materials (BOM) Management Tools: Integrated within CAD or PDM systems, or standalone tools for generating and managing BOMs.

CRM & Automation:

• ERP Systems: SAP R/3 (MM module) (basic experience). Used for managing procurement, inventory, and production planning. Understanding the MM module is key for interface coordination with procurement.

• Documentation Tools: Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel) for technical documentation, reports, and communication.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is heavily focused on engineering design and product lifecycle management. Candidates must be proficient in specific CAD software and ideally have experience with PLM/PDM and ERP systems, as these are critical for integrating design work into operational business processes.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Precision & Quality: A strong emphasis on accurate technical design, detailed documentation, and adherence to quality standards, reflecting the critical nature of mechanical components in heavy machinery.

• Innovation & Development: A drive to create modern and future-proof digital systems and physical products, encouraging continuous improvement and exploration of new solutions.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: A culture that values working together across departments and international borders to solve complex technical challenges.

• Efficiency & Responsibility: A commitment to structured and precise working styles, taking ownership of tasks and ensuring smooth integration with production and procurement processes.

• Customer Focus: Ultimately, designs are aimed at meeting customer needs for reliable and efficient intralogistics solutions.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Expect a highly collaborative environment where close interaction with procurement, quality assurance, and production planning is standard practice for ensuring seamless product development and manufacturing.

• Knowledge Sharing: The reliance on the German development center suggests a culture that actively shares knowledge and best practices across geographical locations.

• Structured Communication: While a "first-name culture" is mentioned, technical roles require clear, structured, and documented communication, especially when discussing design changes, technical problems, and specifications.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture emphasizes a blend of technical rigor and collaborative spirit. Operations professionals thrive in environments where their contributions directly impact product quality and manufacturing efficiency. The "first-name culture" suggests an accessible and supportive team environment, while the technical demands require a disciplined and precise approach.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Complex Mechanical Design: Designing robust and efficient forklift masts requires understanding of loads, stresses, material science, hydraulics, and manufacturing constraints, often within tight design envelopes.

• Cross-Functional Coordination: Effectively communicating technical requirements and resolving issues with diverse teams (procurement, production, QA) who may have different priorities and technical backgrounds.

• Integrating Serial Changes: Managing and implementing design modifications into existing production lines without disrupting output or compromising quality requires meticulous planning and execution.

• Adapting to New Technologies: Keeping pace with advancements in CAD software, materials, and manufacturing techniques to ensure Jungheinrich's mast designs remain competitive.

• International Collaboration: Working effectively with colleagues in different time zones and potentially different cultural communication styles, especially with the German development center.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced CAD Training: Opportunities to deepen expertise in CATIA or Siemens NX, potentially exploring advanced simulation or surfacing modules.

• Specialized Engineering Courses: Access to training in areas like hydraulics, welding engineering, material science, or specific aspects of intralogistics technology.

• PLM/PDM System Proficiency: Gaining hands-on experience and potentially certifications in systems like Siemens Teamcenter.

• Project Leadership: As experience grows, opportunities to lead smaller design projects or take on more responsibility within larger development initiatives.

• Cross-Departmental Exposure: Learning about procurement, manufacturing, and quality assurance processes from an engineering perspective, broadening overall operational understanding.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers significant opportunities for technical specialists to grow within a core engineering function. The challenges are typical of complex product development in the manufacturing sector, and the learning opportunities are geared towards enhancing technical expertise and project management skills.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex mechanical component you designed. What were the key design challenges, how did you approach them using CAD (e.g., CATIA/NX), and what was the outcome?" (Focus on process, tools, and results.)

• "How do you ensure your technical drawings and documentation are clear and accurate for production and procurement? Walk me through your process." (Assess attention to detail and documentation practices.)

• "Imagine a technical problem arises in the production of a forklift mast that you designed. How would you go about diagnosing and resolving the issue, and who would you involve?" (Evaluate problem-solving methodology and collaboration skills.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about Jungheinrich and this specific role in Mast Development?" (Show genuine interest and research.)

• "How do you approach working in a hybrid environment? What are your strategies for effective collaboration with remote and on-site colleagues?" (Assess adaptability and communication in a flexible work model.)

• "Describe a time you had to coordinate with teams from different departments (e.g., procurement, production). What were the challenges, and how did you ensure success?" (Evaluate cross-functional collaboration experience.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: For each portfolio piece, clearly outline: 1. The Problem/Objective, 2. Your Role & Responsibilities, 3. Design Process & Tools Used (CAD, PLM, etc.), 4. Key Challenges & Solutions, 5. Outcome & Impact (quantified if possible).

• Visuals: Use high-quality images of your 3D models, clear screenshots of CAD interfaces, and legible examples of technical drawings and BOMs. Annotate key features or design decisions.

• Conciseness: Be prepared to present your portfolio efficiently, focusing on the most relevant aspects for this role. Aim for 5-7 minutes per project if time allows.

• Technical Depth: Be ready to discuss the technical rationale behind your design choices, material selections, and manufacturing considerations.

• Company Relevance: If possible, subtly connect your experience or projects to Jungheinrich's products or the intralogistics industry.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating technical competence, problem-solving ability, and a collaborative mindset, all within the context of product design and manufacturing operations. A well-prepared portfolio that clearly articulates process and impact is critical for success.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided application link on the Jungheinrich careers portal.

• Customize Your Resume: Tailor your resume to highlight experience with 3D CAD (CATIA/NX), mechanical design fundamentals, technical drawing creation, BOM management, and any experience with PLM/PDM (Teamcenter) or ERP (SAP) systems. Use keywords from the job description.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Compile a digital portfolio showcasing 2-3 of your strongest mechanical design projects. Ensure it clearly demonstrates your CAD skills, process documentation capabilities, problem-solving approach, and any relevant experience with forklift components or heavy machinery.

• Practice Portfolio Presentation: Rehearse walking through your portfolio with a peer or mentor, focusing on articulating your design process, technical decisions, and project outcomes clearly and concisely.

• Research Jungheinrich: Familiarize yourself with Jungheinrich's product range, particularly their forklift masts, their company history, and their presence in the intralogistics market. Understand their commitment to innovation and quality.

⚠️ 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.