The formalization of “Design Engineer” as a role is contentious.
Living on the margins has its benefits. Making, creating, building without any formal requirements is what makes the web so much fun.
Corporatizing the playfulness feels like a step back. Having a concrete role definition places observable edges on a generalist philosophy.
That said, design engineering (UX engineering, creative development, prototyping) work often happens without getting noticed or paid. The title isnt perfect, but it helps. It gives young tech creatives a clear career path beyond having to specialize. Plus it paves a way to earn money for the cross-discipline value the skillset brings.