Value Engineer

Our History: 

The Storyteller Overland vibe started out as a drawing on a restaurant napkin in 2017 illustrating a desire to help people live more adventurous lives. Back then, very few had ever heard of an adventure van, and some at the restaurant table with CEO Jeffrey Hunter had doubts it would ever sell.

The company officially launched in 2018 with a humble yet confident team of seven employees. Over the next year, we worked on launching our MODE 4x4 and finding dealer partners to work with, and finally, the dream was turning into a reality.

We’ve been fortunate to be full speed ahead since then. We’ve added sister companies to our galaxy and built out quite the impressive team – hopefully you included. We hit 500 vans built, then 1,000, then so many more that these milestones became difficult to keep track of. We’ve added new vehicles to our lineup and have built a massive community of like-minded adventurers that also continues to grow.

As we reflect on our history, though, we remind ourselves that our best ideas are still ahead of us, not behind us. Here’s to saying yes to the next grand adventure!

Our Culture:

We are proud to have a people centered, values-driven culture, which means we focus less on rules & transacting and more on values & transforming. Our goal is to create workplaces and spaces where great people can do great things in order to thrive and flourish both professionally and personally. 

Role Overview: 

As the Value Engineer you are responsible for identifying and implementing opportunities to sustain and improve the profit margin on existing vehicle platforms. Continuous improvement and design for manufacturability are your primary language. You will focus on cost analysis, material selection, and maintaining data integrity to support manufacturing, engineering, and procurement teams in delivering high-quality products on time and within budget, while being a superior brand ambassador of our reputation within our vibrant community of vanlifers, adventure seekers, and outdoor enthusiasts.  

General Responsibilities:

• Develop, modify, and maintain detailed SolidWorks part, drawing, and assembly files to meet project specifications,
• Collaborate with design and engineering teams to model and create vehicle components, prototypes, and production support equipment,
• Mathematically analyze static and dynamic vehicle systems for stress, strain, and fatigue under various loading conditions,
• Evaluate vehicle thermal characteristics and engineer solutions to complex thermodynamic challenges using mathematical modeling,
• Perform static, dynamic, and fatigue Finite Element Analysis (FEA), providing actionable recommendations to the design team based on results,
• Review and refine design concepts by incorporating Design for Manufacturing (DFM) principles to enhance efficiency and functionality,
• Partner closely with manufacturing and production teams to adjust designs to “As-Built” specifications and continuously improve models and prints based on real-world production feedback,
• Lead safety-critical design initiatives, utilizing a Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA) driven decision-making process,
• Delegate tasks effectively to drafters, ensuring projects stay on track and within budget while meeting quality standards,
• Foster a culture of collaboration and teamwork within the design and engineering team, contributing to overall success through cooperation and camaraderie,
• Participate in all other duties as assigned, maintaining flexibility and adaptability to support team and organizational goals.

Work Details:

• Schedule: Flexible: Operating hours are generally 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. M - F
• Work Location: In Office: 109 West Park Place Building

Qualifications/Skills:

SolidWorks design experience, general understanding of manufacturing best practices, comfortable with Solidworks weldments and sheet metal functions, ability to perform high level engineering calculations, aptitude for learning new things quickly, high level of attention to detail, capable of solving complex problems with simple solutions, good organizational, verbal, and written communication skills, demonstrates the ability to work effectively in a team environment, active listener and relationship builder

Education and Experience: 

• 4 years SolidWorks modeling experience including sheet metal, surfacing, and weldments
• 2 years mechanical design or product development experience
• Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering
• Prior experience working in or around manufacturing with a high level understanding of common manufacturing methods
• Proven track record of working in a fast-paced, high-stress position that requires high levels of attention to detail
• Experience partnering with vendors/suppliers
• Familiarity with MS Office and G Suite

Physical Demands: 

Candidates should be prepared for the following:

• Sitting: The majority of the workday will be spent sitting at a desk, using a computer, and performing tasks that require sustained attention and focus.
• Light Lifting: Occasionally, employees may need to lift and carry boxes or office supplies weighing up to 50 pounds.
• Reaching and Stretching: There may be instances where reaching or stretching is required to access files, office equipment, or supplies.
• Visual and Mental Concentration: The position may require employees to read documents, analyze data, and perform tasks that demand a high level of visual and mental concentration.
• Repetitive Tasks: Some tasks may involve repetitive motions, such as filing, scanning, or using office equipment, which may require attention to ergonomics and comfort.
• Ability to Sit and Stand for Meetings: Meetings or discussions may require employees to sit or stand for varying periods.

It's important to note that this job primarily involves office-based work, and the physical demands are generally minimal. Accommodations will be provided as needed to ensure the comfort and well-being of employees in accordance with applicable laws and regulations.

Position Scorecard: 

• Core Competencies - Attention to Detail, Analytical Skills, Technical Proficiency, Knowledge of Manufacturing Processes, Collaboration, Communication, Problem-Solving, Time Management, Cost Awareness, Continuous Improvement Mindset, Adaptability, Documentation and Organizational Skills, Knowledge of Industry Standards, and Leadership.
• Position Mission - Identify, evaluate and execute on continuous improvement to existing mechanical designs, with a focus on cost savings and design for manufacturability. . By ensuring data integrity and collaborating with cross-functional teams, this role will drive efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance overall manufacturing performance
  
• Anticipated Outcome - Implementation of cost saving opportunities that contribute to the overall profit margins of existing vehicle platforms.  Ensure accurate, cost-effective Bills of Materials that streamline production, minimize errors, and support on-time, high-quality product delivery.

Exemption Status: Exempt