design-engineer/references/tasks.md

Tasks & work activities — design engineer

Source: O*NET 30.3, occupation 17-2112.00 (Industrial Engineers).

Task statements

• [Core] Analyze statistical data and product specifications to determine standards and establish quality and reliability objectives of finished product.
• [Core] Develop manufacturing methods, labor utilization standards, and cost analysis systems to promote efficient staff and facility utilization.
• [Core] Recommend methods for improving utilization of personnel, material, and utilities.
• [Core] Plan and establish sequence of operations to fabricate and assemble parts or products and to promote efficient utilization.
• [Core] Apply statistical methods and perform mathematical calculations to determine manufacturing processes, staff requirements, and production standards.
• [Core] Draft and design layout of equipment, materials, and workspace to illustrate maximum efficiency using drafting tools and computer.
• [Core] Review production schedules, engineering specifications, orders, and related information to obtain knowledge of manufacturing methods, procedures, and activities.
• [Core] Communicate with management and user personnel to develop production and design standards.
• [Core] Formulate sampling procedures and designs and develop forms and instructions for recording, evaluating, and reporting quality and reliability data.
• [Core] Record or oversee recording of information to ensure currency of engineering drawings and documentation of production problems.
• [Core] Study operations sequence, material flow, functional statements, organization charts, and project information to determine worker functions and responsibilities.
• [Core] Direct workers engaged in product measurement, inspection, and testing activities to ensure quality control and reliability.
• [Core] Implement methods and procedures for disposition of discrepant material and defective or damaged parts, and assess cost and responsibility.
• [Core] Evaluate precision and accuracy of production and testing equipment and engineering drawings to formulate corrective action plan.
• [Core] Complete production reports, purchase orders, and material, tool, and equipment lists.
• [Core] Estimate production costs, cost saving methods, and the effects of product design changes on expenditures for management review, action, and control.
• [Core] Coordinate and implement quality control objectives, activities, or procedures to resolve production problems, maximize product reliability, or minimize costs.
• [Core] Confer with clients, vendors, staff, and management personnel regarding purchases, product and production specifications, manufacturing capabilities, or project status.
• [Supplemental] Schedule deliveries based on production forecasts, material substitutions, storage and handling facilities, and maintenance requirements.
• [Supplemental] Regulate and alter workflow schedules according to established manufacturing sequences and lead times to expedite production operations.

Detailed work activities

• Analyze design or requirements information for mechanical equipment or systems.
• Analyze project data to determine specifications or requirements.
• Communicate technical information to suppliers, contractors, or regulatory agencies.
• Confer with technical personnel to prepare designs or operational plans.
• Create graphical representations of industrial production systems.
• Determine operational methods.
• Develop technical methods or processes.
• Devise research or testing protocols.
• Direct quality control activities.
• Discuss designs or plans with clients.
• Document technical design details.
• Estimate operational costs.
• Evaluate designs or specifications to ensure quality.
• Implement design or process improvements.
• Prepare contracts, disclosures, or applications.
• Prepare operational reports.
• Prepare procedural documents.
• Recommend technical design or process changes to improve efficiency, quality, or performance.
• Review technical documents to plan work.
• Schedule operational activities.
• Supervise engineering or other technical personnel.