Design Associate Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Overview

We're looking for a driven and detail-oriented Design Engineer in our Plymouth, MN location to transform customer needs into innovative thermoforming packaging solutions. In this role, you'll lead product and tooling design from concept through production, working closely with customers, sales, and manufacturing teams.

If you thrive on solving complex design challenges, collaborating cross-functionally, and bringing ideas to life, this is an exciting opportunity to make a direct impact on product development and manufacturing success.

Compensation

Competitive salary based on experience-$70,000-$77,500

Work Schedule

Full-time | Day shift (typical business hours) Minimal travel required (<5%)

Why Placon – You'll Love It Here

• Work on innovative thermoforming packaging and tooling designs
• Collaborate with customers and cross-functional teams on high-impact projects
• Gain exposure to advanced manufacturing processes and CAD technologies
• Growth-focused environment with opportunities to expand your technical and leadership skills
• Supportive culture rooted in collaboration and continuous improvement

What You'll Do

• Design and develop thermoformed packaging solutions including trays, clamshells, pouches, and backer cards
• Create detailed 2D and 3D CAD models for both product and tooling designs
• Lead projects from concept through prototyping, validation, and final production
• Collaborate with customers, sales, and engineering teams to deliver solutions that meet performance and cost requirements
• Develop tooling specifications and coordinate with internal and external vendors
• Support production, quality, and process engineering teams with troubleshooting and improvements
• Review and implement engineering change orders (ECOs)
• Approve final parts and ensure compliance with design specifications and quality standards
• Provide technical support and presentations to customers as needed

What You Bring

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field with 3+ years of design experience or Associate degree with 7+ years of relevant experience in plastics or tooling design
• Strong proficiency in CAD software (2D & 3D modeling)
• Experience with thermoforming, plastics manufacturing, or tooling design
• Knowledge of manufacturing processes, materials, and product development lifecycle
• Ability to manage multiple projects, timelines, and priorities
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills
• Self-directed with the ability to work independently and collaboratively

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in thermoform plastics and packaging design
• Familiarity with quality systems and controlled documentation (ISO)
• Experience working with tooling vendors and production teams
• Project management or leadership experience

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

• Combination of office and manufacturing floor environment
• Regular interaction with prototyping equipment and tooling
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs occasionally
• Frequent standing, walking, and handling of parts and tools

Does This Sound Like You?

If you're passionate about engineering design, thrive in a collaborative environment, and want to help create innovative packaging solutions, we'd love to hear from you.

Apply today - it's quick and easy!

Placon employment offers are contingent upon the successful completion of a pre-employment drug test, basic physical, background check, educational verification, and reference checks (as applicable).

Placon requires that employees have and maintain authorization to work in the country in which the role is based. In general, Placon does not sponsor candidates for non-immigrant visas or permanent residency unless based on business need.

Placon is committed to equal opportunity for all applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, or expression, marital status, age, national origin, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or other protected characteristics.