Excellent communication and project management abilities.Thermoforming Design EngineerThermoform Tooling & Product Design EngineerIndustry:Thermoformed PackagingEmployment Type:Full-TimeOverview:Thermoform Tooling and Product Design Engineerto join our growing packaging team. This individual will play a key role in designing and developing innovative thermoformed packaging solutions and tooling systems. The ideal candidate has a strong background inthermoforming processes, part design, and tooling engineering, with advanced proficiency inSolidWorks.Key Responsibilities:Qualifications:Strong SolidWorks skills(part modeling, assemblies, and drawings required).
We are seeking an experienced
Design and develop thermoformed packaging products from concept through production.
Engineer and model tooling designs for prototype and production molds using SolidWorks.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams including production, quality, and sales to ensure manufacturability and performance.
Generate detailed 2D drawings, 3D models, and bill of materials.
Conduct feasibility studies, tolerance analysis, and design optimization for cost and performance.
Support tooling fabrication, testing, and validation processes.
Troubleshoot tooling and product issues, providing design modifications and engineering support.
Maintain accurate design documentation and adhere to company design standards.
Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Industrial Design, or related field (or equivalent experience).
3+ years of experience in thermoformed product and tooling design.
Knowledge of thermoforming materials, tooling construction, and forming processes.
Experience collaborating with machine shops or toolmakers.
Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
Excellent communication and project management abilities.
Freqently Asked Questions
Merrillville's manufacturing hubs create steady demand for thermoforming design engineers, but competition remains moderate due to specialized skills required. Candidates with strong SolidWorks expertise and thermoforming process knowledge generally stand out, benefiting from regional growth in packaging and industrial design sectors.
While a bachelor's degree in engineering is standard, certifications like Certified Manufacturing Engineer (CMfgE) or SolidWorks Professional credentials can enhance your profile in Indiana. Local employers often value practical tooling design experience combined with project management skills in thermoforming environments.
Mastery of SolidWorks for part modeling, assemblies, and detailed drawings is crucial. Additionally, understanding thermoforming materials, tooling construction, and tolerance analysis equips engineers to optimize product design and tooling for cost-efficiency and manufacturability.
Engineers frequently troubleshoot tooling fit, material behavior during forming, and prototype validation. Balancing design innovation with manufacturability constraints and collaborating across production and quality teams are recurring complexities in this role.
Professionals often advance from hands-on tooling design to overseeing full project lifecycles, including engineering management or process optimization roles. Gaining cross-functional experience in materials science and production strategies can accelerate progression within thermoformed packaging industries.
Alan N. Daum And Associates emphasizes innovative packaging solutions with a collaborative team culture. Their focus on integrating design with production and quality teams offers engineers exposure to end-to-end project involvement and opportunities to influence tooling fabrication and validation.
This company blends strong communication and project management into its engineering expectations, encouraging proactive problem-solving alongside technical design. The role provides hands-on involvement from concept through production, fostering a comprehensive understanding of thermoformed packaging challenges.
Thermoforming Design Engineers in Merrillville typically earn between $70,000 and $90,000 annually, reflecting local manufacturing demand and required expertise in SolidWorks and tooling design. Compensation may vary with experience level, technical skills, and project management capabilities.
Merrillville's location offers manageable commutes for many manufacturing professionals, with access to regional highways easing travel. The city's industrial focus supports stable employment opportunities, enabling engineers to maintain reasonable work-life balance while engaging in full-time roles.
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