Lifecycle Engineer

Kalamazoo, MI | Primarily Onsite | 3–5 Days per Week

The Lifecycle Engineer plays an important role in improving and supporting existing products manufactured at our Kalamazoo facility. Primarily focused on leading continuous improvement initiatives, this position identifies opportunities and develops practical engineering solutions that enhance product performance, quality, manufacturability, and cost efficiency. The role also provides hands-on engineering support to Manufacturing, including troubleshooting production challenges and implementing engineering changes.

Who We Are

Landscape Forms is the industry leader in integrated solutions of high-design site furniture and advanced LED lighting. For more than 50 years, we have produced site furnishings that help designers and other clients achieve beautiful, functional environments that enhance the experience of outdoor space. Our secret is simple: Design, Culture, and Craft drive everything we do.

What You Can Expect

Support, stability, and the opportunity to grow within a design-driven, collaborative environment.

Landscape Forms takes pride in offering a competitive benefits package including, but not limited to, insurance benefits available your first day, 401(k), tuition reimbursement, wellness programs, quarterly profit-sharing bonuses, and paid time off.

Location Expectations

This position is based in Kalamazoo, MI, and is primarily onsite, with an expectation of working onsite 3–5 days per week.

Because this role works closely with Manufacturing, onsite presence is important for collaborating with cross-functional teams, evaluating product improvements, supporting production, and implementing engineering solutions. Some flexibility may be available depending on project and team needs.

How You Contribute

• Identify, develop, and implement continuous improvement initiatives that enhance product quality, performance, manufacturability, safety, and cost efficiency.

• Lead and manage engineering improvement projects, coordinating priorities, timelines, technical milestones, and cross-functional communication.

• Partner with Manufacturing to troubleshoot production challenges, investigate product issues, and develop practical engineering solutions.

• Create and modify 3D CAD models, engineering drawings, parts, assemblies, and specifications using SolidWorks.

• Evaluate and implement engineering changes while maintaining product functionality, design intent, and manufacturing requirements.

• Perform tolerance stack-up analysis and participate in prototype development, product testing, and design validation.

• Collaborate with Design, Engineering, Supply Chain, Quality, Manufacturing, and external partners to evaluate materials, manufacturing processes, tooling, and production solutions.

• Brainstorm and evaluate engineering improvements, using problem-solving and technical analysis to recommend effective solutions.

• Maintain accurate engineering documentation and clearly communicate technical findings, project updates, challenges, and recommendations.

What We're Looking For

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering or a related technical discipline preferred, with 3–5 years of relevant engineering experience and/or a strong technical background.

• Strong working knowledge of SolidWorks, including 3D modeling, assemblies, and engineering drawings. SolidWorks certifications are a plus but not required.

• Experience with blueprint reading, GD&T, precision measuring equipment, and performing tolerance stack-up analysis.

• Working knowledge of manufacturing processes and materials, including metal fabrication, sheet metal, welded assemblies, steel, aluminum, wood, plastics, castings, and composite materials.

• Foundational project management skills, with the ability to independently coordinate engineering projects, manage timelines, and follow through on deliverables.

• Strong mechanical troubleshooting and problem-solving skills, with the ability to investigate challenges, identify root causes, and develop practical solutions.

• Understanding of design for manufacturability, product quality, and continuous improvement principles.

• Collaborative and service-oriented, with the ability to work effectively across Manufacturing, Engineering, Design, and other departments.

• Strong organizational and communication skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and explain technical information clearly.

Additional Experience We'd Value

• Familiarity with quality engineering tools such as FMEA, capability studies, and coordinate measuring machines (CMM).

• Experience working with external engineering partners on specialized technical analysis or structural evaluations.

• Experience identifying and implementing product improvements that result in measurable quality, efficiency, or cost savings.

Help Great Design Stand the Test of Time

If you're an engineer who enjoys improving existing products, solving manufacturing challenges, and seeing your ideas make a tangible impact, we'd welcome the opportunity to connect.

At Landscape Forms, you'll have the opportunity to collaborate with talented designers, engineers, and makers to develop practical solutions, drive continuous improvement, and help ensure our products continue to enhance outdoor spaces around the world.