What are the responsibilities and job description for the Automotive Plastic Injection Design Engineer position at Gables Search Group?
We are seeking an experienced Automotive Plastic Injection Design Engineer to support the development of injection-molded components for new and existing vehicle programs. In this role, you will lead CAD development, engineer robust plastic parts, and collaborate directly with OEM and Tier-1 teams to ensure successful launch.
You will be responsible for ...
You will be responsible for ...
- Create and optimize 2D/3D CAD models using CATIA V5 and/or 3DEXPERIENCE (V6), including complex surfacing, solids, wireframe geometry, and detailed section views.
- Engineer plastic injection-molded components using industry best practices: draft analysis, ribbing, wall thickness optimization, assembly interfaces, attachment strategies, snap-fits, living hinges, etc.
- Apply GD&T, OEM design rules, DFM/DFA principles, and materials engineering knowledge to ensure manufacturable, cost-effective designs.
- Generate and release Engineering Change Notices (ECNs) and design documentation within PLM systems.
- Conduct cross-functional Design Reviews, prepare technical reports, and integrate feedback from tooling, CAE, and manufacturing teams.
- Interface directly with OEM engineers, Tier-1 suppliers, tool shops, and material suppliers to resolve feasibility issues and meet program milestones.
- Support prototype build events—including tooling kickoff, part feasibility checks, dimensional validation, and functional testing coordination.
- Contribute to APQP deliverables, supporting compliance with IATF 16949, J-SOX, and ISO 14001 standards.
- Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Plastics Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or equivalent experience.
- Hands-on experience designing automotive plastic injection-molded components (interiors, exteriors, under-hood, trim, etc.).
- Proficiency in CATIA V5 / 3DEXPERIENCE, especially surfacing.
- Strong understanding of injection-molding processes, tool design considerations, and plastics materials (PP, ABS, PC ABS, PA6/PA66, etc.).
- Experience collaborating with Automotive OEMs or Tier-1 suppliers is highly preferred.
- Strong communication, problem-solving, and cross-functional collaboration skills.
- Work on high-visibility automotive programs
- Collaboration with OEM engineering teams and advanced manufacturing groups
- Competitive compensation and benefits package
- Career growth in product development and plastics engineering