Lead Design Engineer at ABR Employment Services

Job DescriptionJob DescriptionJob Title: Lead Design EngineerLocation: Elkhorn, IN Wage: $105,000 – $120,000 per yearJob Type: Full-time and On site in IndianaJob SummaryWe are seeking a Lead Design Engineer to provide direction and leadership for the design department in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. This role is responsible for managing project timelines, ensuring design accuracy, and transforming customer requirements into thermoforming packaging solutions. The Lead Design Engineer will work closely with customers, account managers, tooling vendors, and internal teams to implement product and tooling designs that meet or exceed expectations.Key ResponsibilitiesLead and manage the design department, including scheduling, workload prioritization, and use of external design resources.Evaluate team and individual performance; set development goals aligned with strategic initiatives.Create and track performance metrics to ensure customer expectations are met.Lead external tool procurement and manage vendor performance according to specifications.Provide technical support to account managers and represent the company with customers as needed.Lead ideation, concept development, and product design efforts; coordinate sample creation and approvals.Create complex 2D and 3D CAD geometry, product, and tooling drawings based on customer specifications and project analysis.Integrate knowledge of thermoforming and manufacturing processes into design projects.Ensure tooling specifications and optimization standards are implemented in collaboration with internal and external teams.Support process engineering and production teams in tooling development, product design, and material suitability.Approve parts and maintain the specification database.Review and initiate engineering change orders related to customer design or purchasing changes.Provide production lifecycle support, including corrective action and financial analysis of design changes.Comply with all safety, ISO procedures, and work instructions.Minimum QualificationsExperience in Plastics and Packaging highly preferred.Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field with 5+ years of design (product or tooling) experience OR Associate degree with 9+ years design experience in the plastics industry.Experience in project management and supervisory leadership. Proficient in 2D and 3D CAD systems.Desired SkillsExperience with thermoform plastics manufacturing.Knowledge of quality systems and controlled documentation.Strong organizational, multi-tasking, and leadership skills.Proficient in standard office software (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).Self-directed and able to work independently.Work Environment & Physical RequirementsWork primarily indoors in office, manufacturing, and tooling areas.Light lifting (up to 10 lbs.) consistently; medium lifting (11–30 lbs.) frequently; heavy lifting (31–50 lbs.) occasionally.Use of computers, CAD software, measurement tools, and office equipment.Minimal travel (<5%) to customers, vendors, or trade shows.**Potential relocation package available. ABR Employment Services is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or protected veterans' status.PandoLogic. Keywords: Mechanical Design Engineer, Location: Elkhart, IN - 46516 , PL: 602011816