---
title: 'Design Engineer at Cannondale'
canonical: 'https://feeny.ai/job/design-engineer-cannondale-freiburg-xry22rdjcj2k'
type: 'job'
last_seen: '2026-09-16'
---

# Design Engineer at Cannondale

- **Company:** Cannondale
- **Location:** Freiburg, Germany
- **Posted:** 2026-09-11
- **Last confirmed live:** 2026-09-16
- **Apply:** https://job-boards.greenhouse.io/cannondale/jobs/6181042004

## Job description

For more than 50 years, Cannondale has been a leading innovator in the cycling world.  As more riders of all ages and abilities get on the roads, trails, and streets than ever before, we're here to do the best work of our lives to push the greatest human-powered machine into the future each and every day. We're committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce where every teammate can succeed as we inspire riders everywhere. Fueled by a free-thinking, always-game, got-your-back mentality, we ditched the rulebook and set forward on a path to make iconic bikes that simply work better. We look forward to the ride with you.

Cannondale is a company filled with passionate people, each with a unique set of experiences and perspectives and one unified mission – to make cycling a part of everyone's lives. As true innovators and creators, we are continually crafting and enhancing our product towards this common goal. As a Design Engineer, your contributions are critical to our success and will directly influence products used at the highest level of the sport.

As part of our engineering team, you will be responsible for developing frames and components from concept to mass production using 3D modeling and simulation software. In this role, you will use knowledge of mechanical engineering to determine the ideal design, material, and manufacturing processes. You will have the opportunity to work closely with suppliers to bring tested products to market on time, in budget, while meeting the product specification brief. Help us create the perfect ride.

Note: This is not a remote position. This role is based in our Freiburg, Germany office.

How You'll Make an Impact:

- Create and refine CAD models and large assemblies using SolidWorks (or similar tools)
- Contribute to concept development, prototyping, and design iterations
- Translate design intent into manufacturable solutions, considering routing, integration, and system-level requirements
- Work cross-functionally with engineering, testing, and production teams
- Contribute to validation and testing efforts to ensure designs scale to production
- Help troubleshoot design challenges and support continuous improvement

What Success Looks Like:

- Builds strong technical capability in CAD modeling and surfacing
- Contributes to product development from concept through production
- Adapts to changing priorities and evolving project needs
- Demonstrates curiosity for product innovation and consumer experience
- Works effectively across teams in a collaborative environment

What You Bring to the Table:

- Degree in Mechanical or Aerospace engineering
- 2-4 years’ experience engineering consumer product
- Knowledge of tube forming processes, forging, gravity casting, and plastic injection molding
- Strong mechanical aptitude to solve complex packaging, assembly, and mechanism problems
- Knowledge of bicycle products and their assembly
- Fluency in 2D and 3D design software with strong surfacing ability
- Finite Element Analysis skills to analyze Aluminum structures and assemblies
- High level of self-motivation and ability to handle several concurrent projects
- Excellent communication skills and problem-solving abilities
- Work in versatile international teams
- Ability to drive a company vehicle for transport of employees and equipment to off-site locations
- English language skills
- Passionate cyclist
- No travel restrictions with the ability to travel internationally

Nice to Have:

- 2+ years designing and developing bicycle frames or components
- Experience with eMTB products is an advantage
- Proficient with SolidWorks 3D modeling software with advanced surfacing skills
- Experience developing product with Asian manufacturing factories
- Work experience as a bicycle mechanic
- Metal working or fabrication skills
- Experience working with Industrial Designers

What we offer:

- Hybrid work environment
- A mix of casual yet professional culture
- Commuter Incentive Program
- Great discounts on company products
- Located inside the Ganter brewery overlooking the Dreisam River
- Lunch rides
- Office events (Summer and Christmas)

Want a closer look into what it's like to Come Ride With Us? Explore more of Cannondale on [Instagram](https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.instagram.com%2Fridecannondale%2F%3Fhl%3Den&data=05%7C01%7Cerica.leonstein%40cannondale.com%7C1b4533a5eb69474f66d208dbe211da62%7Cb61ae64d60c947d9a57294a4e06985cc%7C0%7C0%7C638352338526251595%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=Kw%2F3eOb3ADOOlxfXdTtMzHPQ1zmXmbSvKlBajMtT15k%3D&reserved=0) and [LinkedIn](https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.linkedin.com%2Fcompany%2Fcannondale%2Flife%3Ftrk%3Dnav_type_life&data=05%7C01%7Cerica.leonstein%40cannondale.com%7C1b4533a5eb69474f66d208dbe211da62%7Cb61ae64d60c947d9a57294a4e06985cc%7C0%7C0%7C638352338526251595%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=dKhxHETw3%2Fo3y6%2BdVM%2FIaLVbzKxi7QNB%2FWnULH3tD6o%3D&reserved=0).

## About the organization

As a proud member of the Pon Holdings family, Cannondale benefits from the strong foundation and extensive network of one of the Netherlands' largest family-owned businesses, as well as the largest bike portfolio in the world: Pon.Bike, including brands like Gazelle, Santa Cruz, Cervélo, Kalkhoff, Focus, Urban Arrow, Veloretti and Swapfiets. Being a part of Cannondale means being part of a dynamic and forward-thinking organization backed by the strength and stability of Pon Holdings.

Don’t meet every single requirement? Studies have shown that women and people of color are less likely to apply to jobs unless they meet every single qualification. At Cannondale we value a diverse, inclusive, and authentic workplace, so if you’re excited about this role but your past experience doesn’t align perfectly with every qualification in the job description, regardless of your gender or race, we encourage you to apply anyway. You may be just the right candidate for this or other roles.

Our DEI Mission Statement: At Cannondale, we are on a mission to inspire cycling for all. Whoever you were, are, or will be, you can find yourself here. Our diverse line-up of bikes reflects diverse voices, diverse communities, and diverse aspirations. We know the only way to foster that diversity is to foster inclusion in our perspectives. We are committed to not only seeking unique voices, but also cultivating, embracing, and channeling those of every member of the Cannondale community. We understand that doing so makes both our company and our products better. It’s why we want you to Come Ride With Us – because bikes belong to us all.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. All persons shall have the opportunity to be considered for employment without regard to their race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, alienage or citizenship status, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, disability, military service and veteran status, pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state or local laws. For additional information, please click [here](https://static1.squarespace.com/static/607dce6fe1be3e2971f862ed/t/617c4445c75d177ccedf1cf1/1635533894254/US+EEO+Posters.pdf). We will endeavor to make a reasonable accommodation for the known physical or mental limitations of a qualified applicant with a disability unless the accommodation would impose an undue hardship on the operation of our business. If you believe you require such assistance to apply for a role with or participate in the hiring process with the Company, please let us know.

To learn more about our privacy policy, please click here: https://www.cannondale.com/-/media/files/privacy-policy/74applicant-privacy-policycannondale-en.pdf

An applicant's personal information will be shared in accordance with our privacy policy; by applying for a position, you are accepting the terms of our policy.

## About Cannondale

## Company Overview
- **One-liner**: Cannondale is an American bicycle manufacturer that designs, engineers, and produces high-performance bicycles and electric bikes, known for disruptive innovation and iconic designs.
- **Entity Type**: Private (Subsidiary of Pon Holdings, a Dutch mobility conglomerate)
- **Headquarters**: Wilton, Connecticut, United States (with European headquarters in Woudenberg, Netherlands)
- **Founded**: 1971
- **Founders**: Joe Montgomery and Murry Falgout (originally a bicycle trailer and camping equipment company before pivoting to bikes)

## Core Business
- Primary industry/industries: Sporting Goods Manufacturing, Cycling, Electric Bicycles
- Target customers: B2C (recreational, commuter, and professional cyclists), B2B (bike shops and dealers)
- Mission or purpose statement: "To inspire the world to ride" — making cycling a part of everyone’s lives and creating a fun, healthy world for communities.

## Products & Services
- **Mountain Bikes**: Full-suspension and hardtail mountain bikes (e.g., Habit, Scalpel, Jekyll) for trail riding, cross-country, and enduro.
- **Road Bikes**: High-performance road racing and endurance bikes (e.g., SuperSix EVO, Synapse, SystemSix).
- **Gravel Bikes**: Adventure and gravel racing bikes (e.g., Topstone) designed for mixed-terrain riding.
- **Electric Bikes**: E-bikes across road, mountain, and urban categories (e.g., Synapse NEO, Moterra, Adventure NEO).
- **City & Urban Bikes**: Commuter and lifestyle bikes (e.g., Quick, Treadwell).
- **Kids’ Bikes**: Trail and road bikes designed for younger riders.
- **Cycling Apparel & Accessories**: Helmets, clothing, and gear.

## Market Standing
- **Valuation/Market Cap**: Not publicly disclosed (private subsidiary of Pon Holdings; Pon Holdings is a private company with estimated annual revenue of over €10 billion)
- **Key Metric**: Annual revenue of approximately **$300 million** (est. 2025)
- **Notable Investors/Partners**: Parent company **Pon Holdings** (acquired Dorel Sports in 2022, which included Cannondale). Key partners include Shimano, SRAM, and Fox Racing.
- **Growth Signals**: Headcount of 327 employees (+18.8% YoY); operates in 27 countries; active job postings increased 133% month-over-month and 600% quarter-over-quarter (as of mid-2025). Cannondale is the smallest of the "Big 4" bicycle brands but maintains a strong innovation reputation.

## Competitive Advantages
- **Innovation Legacy**: Over 50 years of industry disruption with iconic, unconventional designs (e.g., Lefty fork, CAAD frames). Holds numerous patents and industry-first technologies.
- **Brand Recognition**: One of the "Big 4" global bicycle brands alongside Specialized, Trek, and Giant, with a loyal customer base and strong dealer network.
- **Vertical Integration**: Parent company Pon Holdings provides significant resources, supply chain stability, and global distribution.
- **Sustainability Focus**: Active community outreach groups focused on sustainability, kids from underprivileged backgrounds, and transportation infrastructure.

## Strategic Focus
- **Electric Bicycle Expansion**: Growing e-bike portfolio across all categories (road, mountain, urban) to capture the rapidly expanding e-bike market.
- **Global Market Penetration**: Expanding presence in Europe (with offices in Netherlands, Germany, UK, France, Spain, Italy, Switzerland) and North America.
- **Innovation & R&D**: Continued investment in lightweight materials, suspension technology, and aerodynamic design.
- **Direct-to-Consumer Growth**: Enhancing online sales and customer engagement while maintaining strong dealer relationships.

## Why Work Here
- **Culture**: Emphasizes a "fun, healthy world" mission with a strong community focus. Employees enjoy company bike rides, team outings, and holiday events.
- **Diversity & Inclusion**: Committed to fostering inclusion in perspectives, with a diverse line-up of bikes reflecting diverse voices and communities.
- **Learning & Growth**: Emphasizes "lifelong growth through learning and skills development" with commitment to continual employee development.
- **Work Environment**: Hybrid/office-based with locations in inspiring cities (Wilton, CT; Woudenberg & Almelo, Netherlands; Freiburg, Germany).
- **Benefits**: Wide range of benefits including health plans, with a focus on employee safety and happiness. Company is an equal opportunity employer.
- **Engineering Culture**: Strong technical focus with roles in design engineering (mountain bike, gravel), 3D CAD, innovation quality, and continuous improvement. Active job openings include Design Engineer I positions.
- **Employee Ratings**: 3.6/5.0 on employer rating (29 reviews), with culture rated 3.6, compensation 3.0, and work-life balance 3.5.

## Sources
1. [Cannondale Careers Page](https://www.cannondale.com/en/careers)
2. [Cannondale About Us](https://www.cannondale.com/en/about-us)
3. [Cannondale Job Openings](https://www.cannondale.com/en-us/careers/job-openings)
4. [LinkedIn Cannondale Company Page](https://www.linkedin.com/company/cannondale/life)
5. [Wikipedia - Cannondale](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cannondale)

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