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KNIGHT WALL SYSTEMS® · 1 month ago

Research And Development Engineer

Deer Park, WA

Full-time

Onsite

Senior Level

$95K/yr - $100K/yr

5+ years exp

Knight Wall Systems Inc. specializes in the design and manufacture of thermally efficient rainscreen attachment systems. The R&D Engineer will lead innovation in designing, prototyping, and testing advanced attachment solutions for cladding and building envelope systems, ensuring product development from conceptualization to launch.

Building MaterialManufacturingWholesale

Hiring Manager

Anna Allen, PHR, SHRM-CP

Responsibilities

Research, design, and develop new products and processes for cladding systems using established engineering principles

Create and refine prototypes, ensuring conformity through testing and fabrication support

Transition designs to manufacturing and contribute to continuous product improvement initiatives

Develop and maintain CAD models, assemblies, drawings, and ERP part libraries of products in the Research and Development phase

Ensure compliance with building codes, standards, and transparency requirements (including IBC, IRC, IECC, ASTM, ASHRAE, etc)

Coordinate code compliance reports, certifications, and other documentation

Conduct thermal, structural performance and other testing need to meet regulatory and customer specifications

Develop and execute benchmark/verification/validation test plans for components and assemblies

Maintain expertise in materials science, coatings, finishes, and fastening methods

Perform materials testing and analysis; generate specifications and technical documentation

Optimize fabrication processes such as roll forming, stamping, perforation, and modular assembly

Integrate sustainable materials and practices aligned with LEED, Passive House, and other green building standards

Conduct competitor research and analyze the competitive landscape to identify opportunities for differentiation

Perform market research with the sales team to understand application challenges and emerging trends

Provide insights to guide product development strategies and ensure alignment with customer needs

Apply building science principles to product design and performance

Read and interpret architectural plans and specifications for building projects

Understand structural engineering fundamentals and relevant codes and standards governing building structural design

Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior engineers

Collaborate cross-functionally with design, manufacturing, and quality teams

Assist with customer technical inquiries, offering clear and timely solutions

Develop schedules, monitor progress, and report updates to management of all ongoing R&D projects

Create SOPs, tooling records, and equipment specifications for new products or new processes

Qualification

Mechanical EngineeringMaterials ScienceCAD proficiencyBuilding science principlesSteel fabrication techniquesERP system maintenanceProject managementCommunicationOrganizational skillsProblem-solving skills

Required

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, Civil Engineering, or related field

5–7 years of experience in R&D or product development within steel manufacturing or architectural cladding

Strong understanding of façade design principles, building envelope performance, and steel fabrication techniques

Proficiency in CAD and simulation tools (e.g., SolidWorks, Rhino, Revit, ANSYS)

Proficient in reading and interpreting blueprints, technical drawings, and specifications

Proficient with Microsoft Excel, Word and Outlook

Familiarity with ASTM, AISI, and ICC standards for cladding and building envelope systems

Excellent verbal and written communication skills; must be able to work in a team environment and collaborate across programs

Must be task oriented with organizational skills to manage multiple projects simultaneously

Excellent communication, project management, and problem-solving skills

Strong desire to meet or exceed customer expectations

Preferred

Experience working with graphic/desktop publishing software such as AutoCad, Bluebeam, Inventor or SolidWorks helpful

Working knowledge of ERP system maintenance (Epicor preferred) with support provided to direct reports and other team members

Benefits

Paid medical, dental, vision, and life insurance policies for employees with employer contributions to dependent coverage

Voluntary plans (health savings account, flexible spending account, long term disability, buy up life & AD&D insurance, accident insurance, and dependent plans)

401(k) with employer match - fully vested after 90 day waiting period

Paid Time Off (PTO), paid holidays and paid sick leave

Onsite gym

Training and professional development classes

Fully equipped breakrooms with snacks and Keurig coffee

Fun monthly employee events

Family-friendly, collaborative culture

Casual work environment

So much more!