Senior Process Development Engineer

Why join us?

Our purpose is to design for the good of humankind. It's the ideal we strive toward each day in everything we do. Being a part of MillerKnoll means being a part of something larger than your work team, or even your brand. We are redefining modern for the 21st century. And our success allows MillerKnoll to support causes that align with our values, so we can build a more sustainable, equitable, and beautiful future for everyone.

General Purpose

Take a hands-on leadership role in developing and implementing manufacturing processes for new retail/office furniture products, including systems and seating. This position is ideal for an engineer who thrives on the shop floor, actively collaborates with cross-functional teams, and drives product launches through direct engagement with new product engineering, tooling, prototyping, automation, and production line setup. You'll be instrumental in turning design concepts into manufacturable, high-quality products that meet cost, performance, and ergonomic standards.

Essential Functions

• Lead hands-on development of manufacturing processes early in the new product development cycle, supporting new seating and systems products, including prototyping, tooling trials, and pilot builds.
• Work closely with new product development engineering to ensure manufacturability and a seamless transition from concept to production.
• Build and test physical prototypes, fixtures, and jigs to validate process concepts and improve product quality.
• Collaborate with new product development and production teams on the floor to identify problems early, troubleshoot issues, optimize workflows, and implement new processes.
• Develop and validate processes for upholstery, metal fabrication, plastic molding, and assembly.
• Apply MillerKnoll Performance System (MKPS) and lean principles to identify and eliminate waste during product ramp-up.
• Create and maintain detailed process documentation, including lessons learned, decision matrices, and final process parameters.
• Lead cross-functional teams through hands-on problem-solving and root cause analysis during product launch phases.
• Support supplier process development and qualification for new components and materials.
• Present findings and recommendations clearly to stakeholders across new product development, manufacturing engineering, operations, and leadership.
• Specify, evaluate, and implement industrial automation solutions such as robotic assembly, automated fastening, and material handling systems to support new product launches.
• Collaborate with equipment vendors and internal maintenance teams to integrate new machinery and ensure equipment readiness for production.

Skills and Abilities

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Industrial, or Manufacturing Engineering.
• 7-10 years of experience in hands-on process development, preferably in the office furniture industry.
• Deep knowledge of manufacturing processes used in office systems and seating (e.g., upholstery, welding, powder coating, injection molding, assembly).
• Experience with industrial automation systems, including robotics, PLCs, and automated assembly equipment.
• Comfortable working on the production floor, building prototypes, and interacting directly with operators and technicians.
• Experience operating machine shop equipment (mills, lathes, saws, etc.).
• Strong understanding of DFM/DFA principles and ergonomic design.
• Proficient in 3D modeling software (SolidWorks preferred), process simulation tools, and standard office software.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills across engineering, production, and supply chain teams.
• Proven ability to manage multiple priorities and adapt quickly in a dynamic product development environment.
• Strong problem-solving skills with a bias for action and continuous improvement.

Who We Hire?

Simply put, we hire qualified applicants representing a wide range of backgrounds and abilities. MillerKnoll is comprised of people of all abilities, gender identities and expressions, ages, ethnicities, sexual orientations, veterans from every branch of military service, and more. Here, you can bring your whole self to work. We're committed to equal opportunity employment, including veterans and people with disabilities.

MillerKnoll complies with applicable disability laws and makes reasonable accommodations for applicants and employees with disabilities. If reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and/or to receive other benefits and privileges of employment, please contact MillerKnoll Talent Acquisition at careers_help@millerknoll.com.