Lead Design Engineer
We're looking for an experienced Lead Design Engineer who thrives on leading teams, driving innovation, and delivering high-quality product and tooling designs. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys guiding engineers, collaborating cross-functionally, and transforming customer needs into manufacturing solutions.
If you have strong CAD experience, a background in tooling or product design, and a passion for leadership and continuous improvement, this is a great opportunity to make a meaningful impact.
Compensation
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Competitive salary based on experience - $105,000-$115,000
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Comprehensive benefits package including Medical, Dental, Vision, STD, LTD, paid time off, 401K with Company match, Profit Sharing.
Work Schedule
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Full-time position-Onsite role based in Plymouth, MN. Monday-Friday; Day shift (typically 7am -4pm)
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Standard business hours with occasional flexibility required for project deadlines.
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Minimal travel (approximately 10%) to customers, vendors, or other company locations.
Why Placon – You'll Love It Here
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A hands-on leadership role where your expertise drives innovation
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Opportunities to lead, mentor, and develop engineering talent
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Collaborative, cross-functional environment focused on customer success
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Exposure to advanced product and tooling design technologies
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A culture centered on continuous improvement, safety, and quality
- Ability to make a direct impact on product development and manufacturing success
What You'll Do
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Lead and direct an on-site design engineering team, ensuring quality, accuracy, and timely project delivery
- Translate customer requirements into innovative product and tooling designs
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Utilize CAD software (2D3D) to develop complex geometries and solutions
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Manage project priorities, schedules, and workloads to meet customer expectations
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Collaborate with cross-functional teams including operations, tooling, and account management
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Oversee tool development, modifications, and vendor performance
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Drive continuous improvement initiatives using performance data and design standards
- Support product lifecycle activities including change management, material selection, and corrective actions
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Ensure adherence to safety, ISO, SQF, and GMP standards
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Coach, mentor, and develop team members to build a high-performing engineering team
What You Bring
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EducationExperience
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Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field 5+ years of experience or-
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Associate degree 7+ years of relevant design experience in plastics or tooling
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Proven leadership experience managing or guiding engineering teams
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Strong proficiency in CAD (2D and 3D design systems)
- Experience in tooling design, product development, or plastics manufacturing
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Strong project management and organizational skills
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Ability to interpret customer requirements and deliver innovative solutions
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Excellent communication and collaboration skills
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Self-directed with the ability to manage multiple priorities
Work Environment
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Combination of office, manufacturing floor, and toolroom environments
- Regular interaction with production, tooling, and engineering teams
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Occasional lifting (up to 50 lbs.) and hands-on involvement with tooling
Ready to Apply?
If this sounds like the right opportunity for you, we'd love to hear from you. Applying is quick and easy-just follow the instructions on this page.
Join Placon and help lead the design of innovative products and tooling solutions.
