Senior Engineer - Product Development
Position summary
Bassett Furniture is hiring a Senior Engineer - Product Development to turn designer concepts into buildable upholstery frames. You will design stationary and motion frames for mockups and market samples, working from designer sketches, 2D drawings, and photos.
This role owns the path from concept to cut part: 3D frame modeling, 2D CAD prep for manufacturing, and 3D model prep for CNC routing. You will partner closely with design, sample room, and plant teams to deliver frames that look right, build efficiently, and hold up in use.
Key responsibilities
- Interpret designer sketches, 2D drawings, and photos to engineer stationary and motion upholstery frames.
- Build accurate 3D frame models in Solid Edge, including rails, posts, seat decks, backs, arms, and blocking.
- Integrate motion mechanisms (recliners, power and manual motion, sleepers) with correct clearances, mounting, and geometry.
- Prepare 2D manufacturing drawings in AutoCAD: part details, cut lists, assembly drawings, and bills of material.
- Prep 3D models and part files for CNC routing, including toolpath-ready geometry and nesting.
- Program and optimize CNC router output using Platain and nest parts in SigmaNEST to maximize yield and reduce waste.
- Build and support mockups and market samples on tight timelines, adjusting designs based on fit, comfort, and appearance reviews.
- Engineer frames for strength, durability, material efficiency, and repeatable production.
- Release designs to production and support the plant through first builds, resolving fit and assembly issues.
- Maintain organized, revision-controlled model, drawing, and CNC program libraries.
- Mentor junior engineers and technicians and contribute to frame design standards.
Required qualifications
- 5+ years designing furniture frames, ideally upholstered stationary and motion furniture.
- Proven ability to translate sketches, drawings, and photos into buildable frame designs.
- Advanced 3D modeling skills in Solid Edge.
- Strong 2D drafting skills in AutoCAD for manufacturing documentation.
- Experience preparing 3D models and part files for CNC router production.
- Solid understanding of wood and engineered panel materials, joinery, fasteners, and frame construction methods.
- Ability to read and create technical drawings, tolerances, and bills of material.
- Clear communicator who works well with designers, sample makers, and production teams.
- Comfortable managing multiple sample projects against market deadlines.
Software and technical skills
Software
Use in this role
Level
Solid Edge
3D frame modeling and assemblies
Required
AutoCAD
2D CAD prep for manufacturing
Required
Platain
CNC router programming
Knowledge preferred
SigmaNEST
Part nesting for CNC cutting
Knowledge preferred
Preferred qualifications
- Associates degree in Mechanical, Manufacturing, or Industrial Engineering, Furniture Design, or equivalent experience.
- Hands-on experience with motion mechanism suppliers and mechanism integration.
- Working knowledge of upholstery construction: springs, suspension, foam, and fabric wrap allowances.
- Experience in a sample room or prototype shop environment.
- Familiarity with lean manufacturing and design-for-manufacturing practices.
Work environment
This role splits time between the engineering office, the sample room, and the production floor. Expect to stand, walk, and handle frame parts and mockups on the shop floor, with appropriate safety equipment.
Benefits Include:
- Medical insurance available the first month following 30 days of employment
- FSA and HSA available
- Dental and Vision
- 401(k) Plan
- Stock Purchase Plan
- Paid vacation upon hire
- Holidays
- AFLAC
- Critical Care Insurance
- Hospital Insurance
- On-site clinic
- Free mental health counseling
Bassett Furniture is an equal opportunity employer.