Job Title: Design Engineer
Department: Product Development
Location: Kona USA, Bellingham, Washington
Company: Kona Bicycle Company
Reports to: Lead Design Engineer
About Kona
At Kona Bicycle Company, we’ve been designing purpose-built bikes for adventurers, commuters, and racers around the world since 1988. As an independent bike brand, our tight-knit team is passionate about bikes, sustainability, and making a global impact through smart design and strong partnerships.
Position Overview
As a Design Engineer at Kona Bicycles, you will be at the forefront of product innovation—transforming ideas into durable, performance-driven bicycles that embody Kona’s unique character and design ethos. This role combines technical engineering expertise with creative problem-solving, ensuring seamless execution from concept through production. You will collaborate with internal teams and external manufacturing partners to design, validate, and deliver frames and components that meet Kona’s rigorous standards for quality, ride feel, and adventure-ready performance.
Task and Responsibilities
Engineering Leadership
• Collaborate on the design, development, and validation of new bicycle frames from concept to production.
• Manage development timelines, track milestones, and ensure smooth coordination between Kona stakeholders and manufacturing partners
• Explore new frame concepts, geometries, and materials to keep Kona at the forefront of design innovation.
• Investigate and resolve issues with existing models and warranty cases, integrating continuous improvement into future designs.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
• Partner closely with Product Managers to align engineering decisions with product vision and performance goals.
• Support Marketing and Sales teams with technical insights, accurate specifications, and product storytelling
• Translate complex technical information into accessible communication for cross-functional teams.
Technical Documentation & BOM Management
• Develop and maintain accurate Bills of Materials (BOMs) to support internal processes and supplier communication.
• Provide technical frame data and specifications for product planning, sourcing, and service documentation.
• Ensure version control and documentation consistency across all product platforms.
Frame Engineering & Testing
• Lead design validation through prototype inspection, ride testing, and mechanical analysis.
• Collaborate with suppliers to resolve manufacturing issues and verify compliance with design intent.
• Apply engineering judgment to optimize performance, durability, and manufacturability.
• Understand cross-compatibility of tooling use across models to improve ROI and time to manufacture.
Frame Design and Aesthetics
• Collaborate with Industrial Design staff (in-house and contractors) to improve frame aesthetics and part clearance.
• Understand how to balance material properties, form, and function to develop products that are efficient in material usage and visually appealing.
Qualifications
• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related discipline (Master’s preferred).
• 5+ years of experience in mechanical or bicycle frame design and development.
• Proficiency with 3D CAD (SolidWorks, Creo, or similar) and mechanical simulation tools.
• In-depth understanding of bicycle geometry, materials, and production methods.
• Demonstrated project management and supplier coordination experience
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
Competencies
• Strong technical problem-solving and analytical ability.
• Organization, leadership, and project ownership.
• High attention to detail and commitment to quality.
• Team-oriented with a collaborative, global mindset.
• Passion for cycling, design, and the Kona brand ethos.
• Compliance Regulation familiarity and ability to aid in test protocol recommendations
What We Offer
• Competitive salary and health benefits
• 80-85K USD salary, depending on experience.
• Industry discounts on bikes, parts, and gear
• Opportunity to work with a passionate and mission-driven team
• Casual, bike-friendly work environment
Why Join Kona
Kona Bicycles is a rider-owned company fueled by creativity, independence, and the pursuit of adventure. As a Design Engineer, you’ll play a critical role in shaping the bikes that define Kona’s legacy—innovative, reliable, and ready for the ride ahead.
Kona Bicycles is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to building an inclusive environment for all employees.
Send your application and resume to jobs@konaworld.com.
