Engineering Technician - Research & Development

Who We Are

Royal is a diverse manufacturer of injection molding, urethane foam and assemblies. We serve the automotive, furniture, and consumer products industries. People who succeed at Royal are those who share the values of our company: Integrity. Stewardship. Teamwork. Hard work. Excellence.

We're committed to being the employer of choice. Our goal is to build a culture of commitment where everyone is respected and valued. Where everyone participates. Where everyone matters. We give our employees the responsibility -- and the authority -- to make decisions. We try to provide the best possible work environment. We encourage creativity. We applaud ingenuity. We reward problem solving.

What You’ll DoWe are seeking a highly skilled, adaptable R&D Engineering Technician to support our engineering team. You will solve complex technical challenges during product launch and/or manufacturing phases. The ideal candidate brings a variety of technical experiences and a passion for creative problem-solving. This role reports to the Director of Advanced Development Engineering and is based out of our Corporate Grove plant in Hudsonville, MI. Job Responsibilities:

• Prototyping: Build, test, and refine early-stage prototypes to validate new launch and R&D concepts.
• Machine Building: Design, fabricate and assemble custom testing equipment and production machinery.  
• Production Support: Troubleshoot complex engineering issues during product launch and ongoing manufacturing phases to optimize production, improve quality, and drive cost reductions.
• Design Collaboration: Use 3D CAD software and 3D printing to modify parts, fixtures, and machinery components.
• Adaptability: Shift focus rapidly between diverse projects to accommodate volatile workloads.
• Cross Functional Team Support: Work within a cross-functional launch team including Project Engineers, Tooling Engineers and Production Supervisors and Managers.

What You’ll BringQualifications:

• 5 years of comprehensive technical experience including:
  • Tooling design
  • Fabrication
  • Machine building
  • Injection molding (preferred, but not required)
• High school diploma, GED or equivalent manufacturing work experience
• Journeyman mold maker/machine repair/tool and die, etc is a plus, but not required
• Ability to use standard fabrication tools and equipment safely. Equipment could include: 
  • Vertical Mill
  • Lathe
  • Grinders
  • Saws
• Proven ability to find creative solutions to ambiguous technical failures
• Self motivated to work independently and manage multiple projects with little supervision
• Experience with AutoCad, Solidworks or PTC Creo CAD software for modeling and drafting is a plus.
• High tolerance for shifting priorities, tight deadlines, and changing daily tasks.