Product Engineer - Plastics

We are seeking a skilled Automotive Plastics Engineer to join our team. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in designing Class A and B plastic surfaces and will understand the design constraints that impact various manufacturing processes including vacuum forming and injection molding. This role involves collaborating with various departments to develop high-quality plastic components for automotive applications. In addition, the candidate should have mechanical aptitude that allows them to design other automotive components.

• Engineer, design and develop new vehicle conversions in CAD with specialization in designing and developing Class A surfaces while also being proficient in B-side work for attachment and strength.
• Utilize injection molding, vacuum forming and other manufacturing techniques to create high-quality plastic parts.
• Plan for design, procurement, assembly, and validation requirements that align with overall Project Timing, Stage Gate (APQP) and Mitigation Strategies. Proficiency in taking ideas through concept, styling, design, validation, and launch.
• Ensure vehicle Designs & Systems conform to budgeted Quality and Cost targets.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (Manufacturing, Quality, Sales, Portfolio) to assure vehicle designs account for all requirements.
• Suggest Low-cost Design alternatives, Common Designs and Standardization. Build and design prototype vehicles.
• Constantly improve designs, processes, and timing, maintaining project specifications.
• Participate in design reviews to assure all vehicle conversions are developed and engineered to meet or exceed requirements.
• Review designs with peers for good design practices and any anticipated design concerns.
• Develop and maintain detailed engineering drawings and specifications.
• Perform material selection and testing to ensure compliance with industry standards and customer requirements.
• Stay updated with the latest advancements in plastic engineering and manufacturing technologies.

• Understanding of Vehicle Engineering and Integration. Must know what is required for a reliable design.
• Knowledge of materials and benefits of utilizing one type over the other
• Tool development especially related to vacuum forming
• Multi-piece assembly design
• Joining techniques including adhesive, epoxy and heat staking
• Solid working knowledge of quality, design and validation tools including FEA, DFA/M, DOE, D/PFMEA, DVP&R, problem solving (8D or similar), GD&T and Tolerance Stack-up.
• Must be detail-oriented and a self-starter.
• Must possess the ability to function well under the demands of project due dates
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills needed
• Well organized, accurate and possesses a strong attention to detail
• Demonstrated ability to effectively solve and analyze problems
• Desire to work in a fast-paced environment
• Prototype fabrication and welding knowledge preferred
• Windows (computer), Outlook (email), Inventor, Auto Cad, Vault, MS Office, and Epicor (ERP)

• Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering is required.
• 5 years’ work experience in automotive design is preferred with proven experience in designing Class A surfaces for automotive applications.
• Previous assembly plant launch experience preferred. Dimensional Management and Understanding of GD&T preferred.
• Experience with Steel and Aluminum part design and manufacturing. Experience with material selection and testing for plastic components.
• Familiarity with industry standards and regulations related to automotive plastics.