Design Engineer

Ready to have a direct influence on tooling, automation, and productivity in a highly automated manufacturing operation? Our client is searching for a Design Engineer to join their team. The Design Engineer will provide hands-on technical expertise to support the design and development of tooling, fixtures, and custom machinery within a manufacturing environment. This role focuses on improving productivity, reliability, and product quality through practical design solutions, close collaboration with shop-floor teams, and direct involvement from concept through implementation.

The Design Engineer will collaborate with a small, experienced engineering group with close interaction across manufacturing and operations. This role will also have end-to-end ownership, staying involved from concept and design through build, testing, and production support.

Work Model:

• On-Site

What You Will Do:

• Design tooling, fixtures, and custom equipment using 3D CAD and detailed manufacturing drawings
• Develop and test prototypes to validate functionality and manufacturability
• Support manufacturing optimization initiatives using lean and continuous improvement principles
• Apply DFMEA, PFMEA, APQP, and PPAP methodologies to tooling and equipment design
• Troubleshoot tooling failures and production issues, implementing sustainable corrective actions
• Coordinate with vendors for tooling fabrication, commissioning, and equipment startup
• Collaborate with manufacturing, purchasing, and shop-floor personnel to ensure practical designs
• Provide hands-on support during installation, commissioning, and production ramp-up

What You Will Need to Be Successful:​​​​​​

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering from an accredited institution (Mechanical Engineering preferred)
• 5+ years of hands-on design engineering experience in a manufacturing environment
• Strong knowledge of manufacturing processes, materials, and equipment selection
• Proficiency in SolidWorks and AutoCAD, including advanced 3D modeling
• Working knowledge of GD&T, Design for Manufacturability, and material science
• Experience designing tooling, fixtures, automation, or special machinery
• Familiarity with processes such as metal fabrication, machining, stamping, welding, and plastics
• Ability to resolve complex engineering problems through practical, shop-ready solutions
• Comfortable working directly on the shop floor and adapting to hands-on challenges

Benefits Overview:

• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• 401k
• PTO

Interested and qualified candidates can contact Eric Peterson at (515) 225-7000 or email epeterson@thepalmergroup.com.