Design Engineer

Overview

American Plastics, headquartered in St. Louis, Missouri, is a leading designer and manufacturer of innovative plastic‑injection molded products for the household & garage storage and commercial cleaning end‑markets.

• Conceptualize, design, and develop plastic components and products according to project requirements, considering functionality, aesthetics, manufacturability, and cost‑effectiveness.
• Utilize CAD software (e.g., Solid Works, CATIA) to create detailed 3D models and 2D drawings of plastic parts and assemblies.
• Oversee the prototyping process, including selecting appropriate materials, collaborating with prototype technicians, and validating designs for fit, form, and function.
• Evaluate and select suitable plastic materials based on performance requirements, environmental factors, and cost considerations.
• Continuously improve designs for efficiency, performance, and cost reduction through analysis, simulation, and testing.
• Collaborate with manufacturing teams to ensure designs are optimized for production processes such as injection molding, extrusion, and thermoforming.
• Work closely with quality control teams to establish and implement quality standards for plastic components and products, ensuring compliance with industry regulations.
• Prepare and maintain comprehensive design documentation, including technical drawings, specifications, and design change records.
• Collaborate effectively with cross‑functional teams including product management, manufacturing, quality assurance, and procurement to achieve project goals and deadlines.
• Stay updated on industry trends, emerging technologies, and best practices in plastic design, and incorporate innovative solutions into product development processes.

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical or plastics Engineering.
• Experience of hands‑on injection molding experience a plus.
• 3+ Years experience with Product Design of plastic injection molded products for consumer packaged goods.
• Solid Works knowledge.
• Experience with prototyping techniques and rapid iteration processes.
• Excellent problem‑solving skills and attention to detail.
• Effective communication and collaboration skills with the ability to work in cross‑functional teams.
• Familiarity with design for manufacturability (DFM) and design for assembly (DFA) principles.
• Ability to prioritize tasks and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Strong communication skills.

• Competitive salary.
• Full benefit package including medical/dental, 401k, and paid vacation.