Technical Product Designer (m/w/d) fixed-termin, 2 years
📍 Job Overview
Job Title: Technical Product Designer (m/w/d) - 2-Year Fixed Term
Company: Groupe SEB
Location: Baden-Württemberg, Germany
Job Type: Full-time, Fixed-term contract
Category: Engineering / Product Design
Date Posted: 2026-08-13
Experience Level: Mid-Level (2-5 years)
Remote Status: Hybrid
🚀 Role Summary
-
This role focuses on the detailed design and development of individual parts and assemblies for consumer products, leveraging 3D CAD software and adhering to stringent engineering standards.
-
Responsibilities include performing critical calculations for dimensioning and tolerancing, ensuring product specifications meet performance and manufacturing requirements.
-
The position involves comprehensive documentation, including bills of materials, drawings, and presentations, crucial for product lifecycle management.
-
Key to this role is managing change processes and maintaining data integrity across essential systems like PLM (pro.file) and ERP (SAP).
-
Collaboration with cross-functional development teams and other departments is paramount for successful project execution and product realization.
📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Technical Product Designer," the description strongly points towards a Product Design Engineer or Mechanical Designer role within a manufacturing context, emphasizing CAD, technical drawings, and engineering calculations. The fixed-term nature of 2 years suggests a project-driven need or a role designed for specific product development cycles.
📈 Primary Responsibilities
-
Lead the design development and detailed engineering of individual parts and assemblies, translating requirements, sketches, and concepts into robust 3D CAD models using Solid Edge.
-
Conduct and document precise calculations for dimensioning and tolerancing to ensure parts meet design specifications and manufacturing feasibility.
-
Create and manage all development-related design documentation, including detailed specifications, accurate bills of materials (BOMs), technical drawings, and comprehensive presentations for stakeholder reviews.
-
Execute and track change management activities throughout the product development lifecycle, ensuring all modifications are properly documented and communicated.
-
Maintain and update critical product data within various systems, specifically pro.file (PLM) and SAP (ERP), ensuring data accuracy and accessibility.
-
Foster close collaboration and effective communication with the entire development team, including R&D, manufacturing, quality assurance, and other relevant departments, to ensure seamless product development.
-
Support the product development process from initial concept through to production, troubleshooting design-related issues as they arise.
-
Contribute to the continuous improvement of design processes and methodologies within the engineering department.
📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a hands-on design engineering role with a strong emphasis on CAD proficiency, documentation, and system data management. The mention of "device development / precision engineering and plastic components" suggests a focus on intricate product design, common in consumer electronics or durable goods manufacturing.
🎓 Skills & Qualifications
Education:
-
Completed vocational training as a Technical Product Designer or Technical Draftsperson (e.g., Technischer Produktdesigner / Technische/r Zeichner/in). Experience:
-
Proven experience in creating 3D models and technical drawings/documents, specifically within the domains of device development, precision engineering, and plastic components.
-
Demonstrated experience with Geometrical Product Specification (GPS) principles. Required Skills:
-
3D CAD Software: Confident and proficient handling of Solid Edge is essential.
-
Technical Documentation: Ability to create and manage specifications, bills of materials, and technical drawings.
-
Engineering Calculations: Experience with dimensioning and tolerancing calculations.
-
Product Development Lifecycle: Understanding of the stages from concept to production, including change management.
-
System Data Management: Proficiency in maintaining data in PLM (pro.file) and ERP (SAP) systems.
-
Core Office Tools: Good knowledge of MS Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
-
Language Proficiency: Good spoken and written English skills are required for international collaboration.
-
Soft Skills: Independent, systematic, reliable, resilient, and a strong team player.
Preferred Skills:
-
Familiarity with other PLM or ERP systems beyond pro.file and SAP.
-
Experience with simulation or analysis tools relevant to plastic components or precision engineering.
-
Knowledge of materials science, particularly related to plastics and metals used in device development.
-
Understanding of manufacturing processes for plastic injection molding and precision machining.
📝 Enhancement Note: The requirements clearly define a technically skilled individual with specific software expertise (Solid Edge) and domain knowledge (device development, precision engineering, plastics). The blend of vocational training and practical experience suggests a role that values hands-on application over purely academic qualifications. The fixed-term nature might mean they are looking for someone who can hit the ground running with minimal ramp-up time.
📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements
Portfolio Essentials:
-
3D CAD Model Examples: Showcase complex assemblies and detailed individual part designs created in Solid Edge, demonstrating proficiency in feature-based modeling, surfacing, and assembly management.
-
Technical Drawing Samples: Present detailed 2D technical drawings with clear dimensioning, tolerancing (GD&T), surface finish indications, and material specifications, adhering to industry standards (e.g., ISO, DIN).
-
Bill of Materials (BOM) Examples: Include examples of well-structured BOMs, demonstrating accuracy in part numbering, descriptions, quantities, and revision control.
-
Process Improvement Case Studies: Highlight instances where your design contributions or process optimizations led to tangible improvements, such as reduced manufacturing costs, improved product performance, or faster development cycles.
Process Documentation:
-
Demonstrations of creating comprehensive design specifications and documentation packages that facilitate clear communication between design, manufacturing, and quality assurance teams.
-
Evidence of managing design changes effectively, including documentation of change requests, impact assessments, and revision tracking within a PLM system.
-
Examples of how you've maintained data integrity and consistency within PLM (pro.file) and ERP (SAP) systems, ensuring accurate product information is available.
📝 Enhancement Note: For a technical product designer role, a portfolio is crucial for demonstrating practical skills. The emphasis should be on the tangible outputs of their work—CAD models, drawings, and documentation—alongside evidence of process adherence and problem-solving capabilities. Given the mention of PLM and SAP, showcasing experience with data management within these systems would be highly beneficial.
💵 Compensation & Benefits
Salary Range:
-
Based on market research for Technical Product Designers with 2-5 years of experience in the Baden-Württemberg region of Germany, the estimated annual gross salary range is between €45,000 and €60,000. This estimate considers the fixed-term nature of the contract and the specific technical skill set required. Benefits:
-
Flexible Working Hours & Models: Offers flexible working time models and mobile office options to promote work-life balance.
-
Personal Development: Access to development programs, training, e-learning, and opportunities for professional mobility within the international Groupe SEB network.
-
Employee Discounts: Generous discounts on products in the WMF online store and access to corporate benefits.
-
On-site Amenities: A well-subsidized company restaurant offering a wide variety of food options, along with a kiosk and grab-and-go choices.
-
Attractive Compensation Package: Includes a base salary, Christmas bonus, vacation bonus, and a company pension scheme.
-
Health & Wellness: Initiatives such as job bike leasing and health advisory services.
-
Additional Perks: 30 days of annual leave, various employee events, free parking, and complimentary coffee and tea specialties.
Working Hours:
- The standard working hours are 40 hours per week. The role offers flexible working hours and models, accommodating a hybrid work arrangement.
📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimation based on typical compensation for similar roles in Germany's industrial heartland, Baden-Württemberg. The fixed-term nature might influence the offer, potentially including a premium or a clearer path to permanent employment if performance is exceptional. The benefits package is comprehensive, typical for a large, established German employer like Groupe SEB.
🎯 Team & Company Context
🏢 Company Culture
Industry: Consumer Goods / Home Appliances Manufacturing. Groupe SEB is a global leader in small domestic appliances, with well-known brands such as WMF, Tefal, Moulinex, Rowenta, and Krups. The Baden-Württemberg location likely focuses on product development and engineering, possibly for WMF's kitchenware and premium home appliances.
Company Size: Groupe SEB is a large multinational corporation with over 33,000 employees worldwide. This specific site in Baden-Württemberg is likely a significant R&D or manufacturing hub.
Founded: Groupe SEB was founded in 1857, indicating a long history of innovation and market presence. WMF, a prominent brand likely associated with this location, has an even longer history, founded in 1853.
Team Structure:
-
The role is within the product development or engineering department. The team structure likely includes Senior Engineers, R&D Managers, Project Leads, and other specialized designers or engineers.
-
Reporting will be to a team lead or manager within the R&D or Product Development division.
-
Collaboration is expected with manufacturing, quality assurance, marketing, and potentially global R&D teams. Methodology:
-
The design process will likely follow a structured product development methodology, incorporating elements of Stage-Gate or Agile principles for managing projects.
-
Emphasis will be placed on data-driven design decisions, validated through calculations, simulations, and prototyping.
-
Process optimization and efficiency are key, especially given the mention of PLM and ERP systems and the need for meticulous documentation.
Company Website: https://www.groupeseb.com/en/
📝 Enhancement Note: Working for a large, established company like Groupe SEB typically means structured processes, clear hierarchies, and opportunities for international exposure. The presence of well-known brands suggests a commitment to quality and innovation. The Baden-Württemberg location implies a strong engineering and manufacturing heritage.
📈 Career & Growth Analysis
Operations Career Level: This role is positioned at a mid-level, suitable for individuals with 2-5 years of experience. It requires a solid foundation in technical product design principles and CAD software, with the ability to work independently on defined tasks.
Reporting Structure: The Technical Product Designer will report to a Design Lead or Engineering Manager within the product development department. This structure allows for guidance and mentorship while encouraging autonomous work on specific design components or assemblies.
Operations Impact: While not a traditional "Revenue Operations" role, this design position has a direct and significant impact on the company's success. Effective product design, achieved through meticulous detailing and robust engineering, influences product quality, manufacturing efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and ultimately, customer satisfaction and market competitiveness. The designs created by this role will form the basis of physical products that generate revenue.
Growth Opportunities:
-
Skill Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific areas such as plastic component design, precision engineering, advanced Solid Edge functionalities, or GD&T application.
-
Project Leadership: With proven performance, potentially move into leading smaller design packages or taking on more complex assemblies within larger projects.
-
Cross-Functional Exposure: Gain experience working with manufacturing, quality, and marketing teams, broadening understanding of the product lifecycle.
-
International Mobility: As part of Groupe SEB, there may be opportunities to work on international projects or even transfer to other global R&D centers in the future, post-fixed term.
-
Permanent Role Transition: Successful completion of the 2-year fixed term could lead to opportunities for permanent employment within Groupe SEB, depending on business needs and individual performance.
📝 Enhancement Note: The fixed-term nature of this role offers a clear pathway for gaining specialized experience within a large corporation. Growth potential lies in deepening technical expertise and potentially transitioning to a permanent role or taking on more responsibility within project teams.
🌐 Work Environment
Office Type: This is likely a hybrid role, combining work from the office with potential remote work. The office environment will be a modern engineering or R&D facility.
Office Location(s): Baden-Württemberg, Germany. This region is a major industrial and technological hub in Germany, known for its strong automotive, engineering, and manufacturing sectors. Specific office locations within Baden-Württemberg would need to be confirmed.
Workspace Context:
-
Collaborative Environment: Expect a dynamic workspace designed for engineering collaboration, likely featuring shared design studios, meeting rooms equipped with presentation tools, and potentially access to prototyping labs or testing facilities.
-
Tools & Technology: A high-performance workstation with Solid Edge installed, access to PLM (pro.file) and SAP systems, and standard office IT infrastructure.
-
Team Interaction: Regular team meetings, design reviews, and cross-departmental discussions will be part of the daily routine, fostering a collaborative spirit.
Work Schedule:
- The role adheres to a standard 40-hour work week with flexible working hours. This flexibility allows for better management of personal time and work-life balance, while ensuring project deadlines are met. The hybrid model allows for a mix of office-based collaborative work and focused individual work from home.
📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid arrangement and flexible hours suggest a modern work environment that values employee well-being and productivity. Baden-Württemberg's industrial ecosystem provides a rich environment for engineering professionals.
📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process
Interview Process:
-
Initial Screening: A review of your CV and cover letter, focusing on vocational training, Solid Edge proficiency, and experience with device development/precision engineering.
-
Technical Interview (Phone/Video): An interview with an engineering manager or senior designer to discuss your technical skills, CAD experience, understanding of engineering principles (dimensioning, tolerancing), and familiarity with PLM/SAP. Be prepared to discuss specific projects from your past.
-
Portfolio Review & Technical Assessment: This is a critical stage. You will likely be asked to present specific examples from your portfolio, explaining your design process, the challenges you faced, and the solutions you implemented. A practical CAD test using Solid Edge might also be included to assess your skills live.
-
Team/Cultural Fit Interview: An opportunity to meet potential team members and discuss how you work collaboratively. Questions will focus on your problem-solving approach, adaptability, and ability to work within a team environment.
-
Final Interview: A discussion with a hiring manager or department head to finalize the offer.
Portfolio Review Tips:
-
Curate Effectively: Select 3-5 of your strongest projects that best represent your skills in 3D CAD (Solid Edge), technical documentation, and precision engineering. Prioritize projects involving plastic components or device development if possible.
-
Structure Your Presentation: For each project, clearly outline: the problem/requirement, your design approach, the tools/techniques used (especially Solid Edge features), key design decisions, challenges encountered, and the outcome/impact.
-
Highlight Technical Detail: Be ready to walk through specific features in your Solid Edge models and explain the reasoning behind your dimensioning and tolerancing choices. Showcase your understanding of GD&T.
-
Emphasize Documentation: Show examples of your technical drawings and BOMs, explaining their structure and purpose.
-
Showcase System Familiarity: If possible, describe how you've managed data within PLM (pro.file) or SAP systems in your previous roles.
Challenge Preparation:
-
Solid Edge Proficiency: Brush up on advanced Solid Edge features, including surfacing, complex assemblies, and part-to-assembly workflows.
-
Engineering Fundamentals: Review principles of dimensioning, tolerancing, GD&T, and material properties relevant to plastics and precision components.
-
Problem-Solving Scenarios: Prepare to discuss how you would approach common design challenges, such as optimizing a part for manufacturability, reducing material cost, or improving product performance.
-
Company Research: Understand Groupe SEB's product portfolio and brands, particularly those associated with WMF and the type of products developed in Baden-Württemberg.
📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a portfolio review and potential CAD test is standard for design roles. Candidates should be prepared to demonstrate their technical prowess and problem-solving skills with concrete examples. Understanding the company's product range and manufacturing context will be key.
🛠 Tools & Technology Stack
Primary Tools:
-
3D CAD Software: Solid Edge (primary requirement, high proficiency expected).
-
PLM System: pro.file (essential for data management and product lifecycle tracking).
-
ERP System: SAP (required for BOM management, material planning, and other enterprise resource functions).
-
Office Productivity Suite: Microsoft Office (Word for documentation, Excel for data analysis/BOM manipulation, PowerPoint for presentations).
Analytics & Reporting:
-
While not a core analytics role, proficiency in using data from SAP and PLM for reporting on BOM status, design changes, and project progress will be necessary.
-
Basic Excel skills for data analysis and reporting on design metrics. CRM & Automation:
-
While not directly customer-facing, understanding how design data integrates with broader company systems (like SAP) is important.
-
Familiarity with any internal project management or task tracking tools used by the development team.
📝 Enhancement Note: Solid Edge, pro.file, SAP, and MS Office are the core technical requirements. Candidates should be ready to discuss their experience and comfort level with each of these systems.
👥 Team Culture & Values
Operations Values:
-
Precision & Quality: A strong emphasis on meticulous design, accurate documentation, and adherence to engineering standards to ensure high-quality product output.
-
Collaboration & Teamwork: Working effectively within a cross-functional team, sharing knowledge, and supporting colleagues to achieve common project goals.
-
Innovation & Problem-Solving: A proactive approach to identifying design challenges and developing creative, practical solutions.
-
Efficiency & Continuous Improvement: A drive to optimize design processes, reduce waste, and contribute to overall product development efficiency.
-
Reliability & Accountability: Taking ownership of tasks, meeting deadlines, and delivering accurate, dependable work.
Collaboration Style:
-
Cross-functional Integration: The role requires active collaboration with R&D, manufacturing, quality assurance, and potentially global design teams. Clear communication and understanding of different department needs are vital.
-
Process-Oriented: The team likely follows established design and development processes, with a culture of reviewing work and providing constructive feedback to ensure design integrity.
-
Knowledge Sharing: Encouragement of sharing best practices, technical insights, and lessons learned to foster collective growth and improve team performance.
📝 Enhancement Note: Groupe SEB, as a large global company, likely fosters a culture that balances structured processes with innovation. The values emphasize technical excellence, teamwork, and efficiency, which are critical for successful product development in the consumer goods sector.
⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities
Challenges:
-
Fixed-Term Nature: Adapting to a 2-year contract, understanding that the role may be project-specific and require quick integration.
-
System Integration: Mastering the specific PLM (pro.file) and ERP (SAP) configurations used by Groupe SEB for design data management.
-
Cross-Cultural Collaboration: Working effectively with international teams, potentially requiring adaptation to different communication styles and time zones.
-
Pace of Development: The consumer goods industry can be fast-paced; managing multiple design tasks and deadlines efficiently will be key.
Learning & Development Opportunities:
-
Advanced Solid Edge Training: Opportunities to deepen expertise in advanced features and workflows within Solid Edge.
-
PLM/SAP System Mastery: Gaining in-depth knowledge of how these critical systems are used in a large manufacturing enterprise.
-
Product Development Methodologies: Learning and applying Groupe SEB's specific product development processes and best practices.
-
Industry Exposure: Gaining experience with the product development cycles of well-known consumer brands.
-
Career Advancement: Potential for transitioning to a permanent role or taking on more challenging design responsibilities within Groupe SEB.
📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are primarily related to the temporary nature of the role and the specific systems used, while growth opportunities focus on skill enhancement and potential long-term career prospects within a large, reputable organization.
💡 Interview Preparation
Strategy Questions:
-
"Describe a complex part or assembly you designed using Solid Edge. What were the key challenges, and how did you overcome them?" (Focus on your design process, problem-solving, and technical skills).
-
"How do you ensure accuracy in dimensioning and tolerancing for manufactured parts, especially for precision engineering applications?" (Highlight your understanding of GD&T and engineering principles).
-
"Can you walk me through your process for creating and managing a Bill of Materials (BOM) and associated technical documentation?" (Demonstrate your organizational and documentation skills).
-
"Describe your experience with PLM systems like pro.file or ERP systems like SAP in a design context. How did you ensure data integrity?" (Showcase your system proficiency). Company & Culture Questions:
-
"What interests you about working for Groupe SEB and specifically in this Technical Product Designer role?" (Research Groupe SEB's brands, values, and recent product innovations).
-
"How do you approach collaboration with manufacturing and quality assurance teams to ensure design manufacturability and quality?" (Emphasize your cross-functional communication skills).
-
"This is a fixed-term role. How do you see yourself contributing to our team's objectives within this timeframe?" (Show enthusiasm and a results-oriented mindset). Portfolio Presentation Strategy:
-
Choose Your Best: Select 3-4 projects that showcase Solid Edge proficiency, precision engineering/plastic component design, and strong documentation.
-
Explain Your "Why": For each project, clearly articulate the design problem, your solution, and the impact. Use visuals effectively.
-
Demonstrate Technical Depth: Be ready to discuss specific CAD features, material choices, and engineering calculations. If possible, briefly explain how the design was managed in PLM/SAP.
-
Focus on Process: Show your understanding of the design workflow from concept to documentation.
📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should prepare to demonstrate technical skills through their portfolio and answer behavioral questions that assess their problem-solving, collaboration, and adaptability.
📌 Application Steps
To apply for this Technical Product Designer position:
-
Submit your application through the provided link on the Groupe SEB careers portal.
-
Tailor Your CV: Ensure your CV clearly highlights your vocational training, specific experience with Solid Edge, device development, precision engineering, plastic components, and any experience with PLM (pro.file) or SAP. Quantify achievements where possible.
-
Prepare Your Portfolio: Assemble a digital portfolio showcasing your best 3D CAD models, technical drawings, and BOM examples. Be ready to present these confidently and articulate your design process.
-
Practice Interview Responses: Rehearse answers to common technical and behavioral questions, focusing on demonstrating your Solid Edge skills, engineering knowledge, and collaborative abilities. Prepare specific examples from your experience.
-
Research Groupe SEB: Familiarize yourself with Groupe SEB's brands, company mission, and recent product developments, particularly those relevant to the Baden-Württemberg region or WMF products.
⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and industry-standard assumptions. All details, especially regarding specific company processes, benefits, and interview stages, should be verified directly with the hiring organization. The salary range provided is an estimation and may vary based on individual qualifications and final negotiation.
Application Requirements
Candidates must have completed vocational training as a technical product designer or draftsperson with experience in 3D modeling and precision engineering. Proficiency in Solid Edge, SAP, and Geometrical Product Specification is required, along with good English language skills.