The Upholstery R&D Engineer is responsible for the design, development, and documentation of padding materials and cushioning systems for upholstered furniture products. This role focuses on creating technical drawings and specifications for foam, fiber, and other padding components while ensuring optimal comfort, durability, and manufacturability.

1. Drawing Creation & Documentation:

• Create detailed technical drawings of padding materials including foam cores, fiber wraps, batting layers, and cushion assemblies.
• Develop cross-sectional views showing foam density zones, layer compositions, and material specifications.
• Generate dimensional drawings with precise measurements for cutting patterns and material yields.
• Produce assembly instructions showing proper layering sequences and attachment methods.
• Upload and maintain all technical drawings in the company's Product Data Management (PDM).

2. Material Specification & Development:

• Specify foam types, densities, IFD (Indentation Force Deflection) ratings, and performance characteristics.
• Select appropriate fiber fills, batting materials, and comfort layers based on product requirements.
• Work with suppliers to test and evaluate new padding materials and technologies.
• Document material properties, performance testing results, and cost comparisons.

3. Product Development Support:

• Collaborate with design teams to translate aesthetic concepts into manufacturable padding solutions.
• Partner with prototype teams to create physical samples for testing and evaluation.
• Conduct comfort testing and adjust based on feedback from testing panels.
• Support cost reduction initiatives by optimizing material usage and identifying alternative materials.

4. Quality & Compliance:

• Ensure all padding designs meet safety standards (flammability, chemical emissions, etc.).
• Create and maintain Bill of Materials (BOM) for all padding components.
• Document design changes and maintain revision control of all technical drawings.
• Support quality teams in resolving manufacturing issues related to padding materials.

1. Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Materials Engineering, Furniture Design, Product Development, or related fields.

2. Experience:

• Minimum 2 years of experience in product development, engineering, or technical design.
• Experience in upholstered furniture, foam products, soft goods, or related manufacturing industries is preferred.

3. Knowledge of:

• Upholstery construction methods, cushioning systems, and furniture manufacturing processes.
• Foam materials, fiber fills, and other comfort-related components.
• Product development and engineering documentation processes.
• BOM management and technical drawing standards.

4. Skills & Abilities:

• CAD Software: Proficient in AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or similar 2D/3D design tools.
• PLM Systems: Experience uploading and managing technical documents in enterprise systems.
• Knowledge of foam types, densities, and cushioning materials.
• Understanding of upholstery construction methods and assembly processes.
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and specifications.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy in technical documentation.
• Excellent organizational skills for managing multiple projects simultaneously.
• Effective communication with cross-functional teams (Design, Manufacturing, Quality, Sourcing).
• Problem-solving mindset with ability to balance comfort, cost, and manufacturability.
• Self-motivated with ability to work independently.