ThreePDS Inc. · 1 month ago
Design Engineer – Thermoformed Packaging (Retail & Food Market)
DeKalb, IL
Full-time
Onsite
Entry, Mid Level
$85K/yr - $100K/yr
2+ years expThreePDS Inc. is seeking a creative and technically strong Design Engineer with hands-on experience in thermoformed packaging for retail and food markets. This role involves transforming customer requirements into manufacturable packaging solutions, designing components, developing tooling, and driving product commercialization from concept through production.
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Responsibilities
Design thermoformed packaging from concept through production using SolidWorks or similar CAD tools
Develop detailed 3D models, assemblies, and 2D manufacturing drawings
Translate customer requirements into innovative, practical packaging solutions
Conduct feasibility studies, including draft analysis, stackability, material selection, and structural integrity reviews
Design thermoform production tooling and seal tooling for efficient, high-quality manufacturing
Partner closely with tooling engineering teams to ensure tooling aligns with production requirements
Use 3D scanning and 3D printing as needed for prototyping and rapid iteration
Support prototype builds, testing, and design validation activities
Work with sales, project managers, and manufacturing teams to ensure designs meet customer, quality, and production goals
Participate in customer discussions to gather requirements and present design concepts
Identify and mitigate design, material, or process risks early in the project lifecycle
Maintain accurate documentation and manage design revisions through PDM/PLM systems
Stay current with new materials, design technologies, and industry trends in thermoforming
Incorporate sustainability and cost-efficiency into packaging designs
Improve design workflows and identify opportunities to enhance manufacturing performance
Qualification
Required
Bachelor's degree in Industrial Design, Mechanical Engineering, Packaging Engineering, or related field
2+ years of packaging design experience, specifically in thermoforming or plastics packaging
Proficiency in SolidWorks (strongly preferred)
Expertise in thin-gauge thermoforming design, including draft angles, wall thickness standards, undercuts and formability considerations
Knowledge of PET, HIPS, PVC, and similar plastic materials
Familiarity with production tooling processes and manufacturing constraints
Ability to identify and resolve design risks proactively
Strong communication skills and collaboration abilities
Ability to handle multiple projects and deadlines in a fast-paced environment
Preferred
Experience coordinating packaging development directly with customers
Hands-on exposure to thermoforming equipment or tooling shops
Understanding of sustainability requirements in packaging
Company
ThreePDS Inc.
At ThreePDS, we provide the highest quality staffing solutions on contract and/or permanent basis within the framework of a highly personalized and transparent approach.
51-200 employees
H1B Sponsorship
ThreePDS Inc. has a track record of offering H1B sponsorships. Please note that this does not
guarantee sponsorship for this specific role. Below presents additional info for your
reference. (Data Powered by US Department of Labor)
Distribution of Different Job Fields Receiving Sponsorship
Represents job field similar to this job
Trends of Total Sponsorships
2021 (1)
Funding
Current Stage
Growth StageLeadership Team
Julie Philipose
Talent Acquisition Partner
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