Senior Research and Development Engineer – Fasteners, Tools, and Mechanical Anchors

Senior Research and Development Engineer

Simpson Strong-Tie is a leader in engineered structural connectors, software, and solutions for the building industry. We maintain a reputation as a trusted manufacturer, partner, and corporate citizen committed to our customers and employees. Our founder, Barc Simpson established 9 Principles of Business we live out as company values and has made Simpson Strong-Tie an inspiring place to work since 1956.

Our team of talented people are dedicated to our shared mission: to provide solutions that help people design and build safer, stronger structures. Learn about our company culture directly from our team.

YOU As a Senior Research and Development Engineer, you will have a pivotal role in team success by leading the design and development of innovative fastener installation tools and fasteners from concept through validation.

• Design tools for the construction industry – primarily for the delivery of fasteners. (65%) Analyzing, understanding, and translating project requirements into clear product features Utilizing CAD, FEA, 3D printing, prototyping, and proof testing to optimize designs Coordination with vendors, tooling, manufacturing, and quality departments Collaboration with product management and marketing in the commercialization of products Preparation of technical documentation, design reviews, and IP related materials
• Design structural fasteners for the construction industry. (25%) Extrapolating structural fastener performance concepts into innovative fastener designs Designing and executing building code based test programs to validate fastener performance Coordination with vendors, tooling, manufacturing, and quality departments Collaboration with product management and marketing in the commercialization of products Preparation of technical documentation, design reviews, and IP related materials
• Provide technical support for manufacturing and quality control. (10%) Analysis of problems and development of solutions to manufacturing challenges.

• Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering or related engineering discipline
• 7+ years of experience designing mechanical fastening systems, anchors, connectors, tools, or related construction products
• Holder of one or more patents related to tool design
• Demonstrated ability to lead complex product-development projects from concept generation through validation and handoff to production teams
• Strong technical decision-making skills with the ability to balance performance, manufacturability, cost, and schedule objectives
• High-level creativity for solving complex mechanical challenges
• Expert-level knowledge of mechanical design principles, structural mechanics, and materials behavior
• Fluency in the Microsoft 365 environment including SharePoint, Teams, One Drive, and Copilot
• Familiarity with Aras and Planview
• Advanced proficiency with 3D CAD modeling (Inventor) and engineering analysis tools
• Extensive experience applying FEA and simulation techniques to support design decisions and product validation
• Strong understanding of experimental design, laboratory testing, statistical analysis, and industry standards such as ASTM
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to create detailed engineering reports, specifications, presentations, and technical recommendations for diverse audiences
• Experience with intellectual property development, patent filings, and invention disclosures
• Experience leading technical teams, mentoring engineers, and influencing organizational decisions

The physical demands and work environment characteristics described here are representative of those that must be met by an…