Design Engineer - R&D 1st Shift

SUMMARY

A Design Engineer – R&D brings the principles of mechanical engineering to Wilson Tool products. This is a key role in developing innovative tooling solutions, enhancing product performance, and driving new product development. Many current products have the potential to be improved upon, and new products invented by innovating mechanical functions and in some applications adding electro‑mechanical features. This role requires strong technical expertise, creativity in design, and a deep understanding of manufacturing processes to support both current and future product lines.

Collaboration with other departments including manufacturing, engineering, product managers and the tool room is expected.

• Conceive, design, test, and participate in cross‑functional design reviews with other engineering, manufacturing, and marketing personnel facilitating transfer to production of new mechanical and in some applications electro‑mechanical products.
• Promote multi‑functional, collaborative input in order to generate designs that optimize functionality, aesthetics, manufacturability, and cost.
• Provide support to production, vendors, sales force, and customers.

• Product Design & Development
  • Conceptualize, design, and develop new tooling solutions using Solid Works CAD software.
  • Create detailed 3D models, assemblies, and 2D technical drawings for manufacturing.
  • Conduct design reviews, tolerance analyses, and validation of tooling designs.
• R&D Innovation
  • Collaborate with cross‑functional teams to identify opportunities for product innovation.
  • Conduct feasibility studies and prototype development for new concepts.
  • Evaluate materials, processes, and technologies to improve product performance.
• Testing & Validation
  • Support prototype builds, testing, and performance evaluations.
  • Analyze test results to ensure compliance with requirements.
  • Iterate designs based on test outcomes and customer feedback.
• Manufacturing Support
  • Work closely with production teams to ensure manufacturability and cost‑effectiveness.
  • Provide engineering support for process improvements and tooling optimization.
  • Assist in troubleshooting and resolving design‑related issues during production.
• Documentation & Compliance
  • Prepare and maintain engineering documentation, including design records and reports.
  • Engage in and actively volunteer for Continuous Improvement projects/tasks.
  • Participate in and sustain 5S.
  • Miscellaneous duties as needed.

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or related field.
• 3‑5 years of experience in design engineering, preferably within tooling, precision machining, or manufacturing environments.
• Minimum of 3‑5 years’ Solid Works CAD software experience required.
• Strong knowledge of manufacturing processes such as CNC machining, stamping, forming, and heat treatment.
• Solid knowledge of GD&T, FEA, and materials engineering.
• Experience in R&D or product development roles is strongly preferred.
• Working electromechanical product knowledge preferred.
• Ability to work quickly and accurately & communicate as part of a team.
• Attention to detail and problem‑solving ability.
• SAP experience helpful.

• Ability to work independently and in teams.
• Good interpersonal communication skills at all levels and strong written and oral communication skills.
• The ideal candidate is a self‑starter who takes the initiative to identify areas of opportunity and act.
• Willingness to work outside your comfort zone and learn new things.
• Competence in computer applications, including Microsoft Office, and the ability to use technology as a decision‑support tool.

Office and manufacturing environment.

Full‑time; core‑business hours or determined by business needs.

Travel required on occasion.

Exempt ($80,515‑$100,644) DOQ

Wilson Tool is an EEO/AA employer: women, minorities, the disabled, and veterans are encouraged to apply. EEO is the Law