Plastic Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

We're Hiring: Tooling Engineer II

Location: Torrance, CA 
Company: Pelican Products, Inc.

Who We Are 

At Pelican, we engineer products that stand up to the world’s toughest conditions—because the people who rely on us do too. For nearly 50 years, we’ve been a trusted partner for military personnel, first responders, outdoor adventurers, and innovators who push the limits. 

With a global presence that includes 11 offices, 4 manufacturing facilities, and 4 custom case centers, we create high-performance protective solutions that ensure our customers can focus on what matters most. Whether it’s transporting critical medical supplies, securing mission-essential equipment, or keeping expedition gear safe, Pelican products are Built to Protect to Equip for the Mission. 

At Pelican, your work has a real-world impact. You’ll be part of a team driven by innovation, craftsmanship, and the shared belief that when the mission is critical, failure isn’t an option. If you’re ready to build something that makes a difference, be part of a team that protects what matters most. 

What You'll Do:

As a Tooling Engineer II, you will lead tooling development projects and provide technical expertise that supports new product launches, manufacturing excellence, and continuous improvement initiatives across our injection molding operations.

• Design, develop, and optimize injection molds and tooling systems for new and existing products.
• Review product designs and engineering specifications to ensure manufacturability and alignment with tooling capabilities.
• Lead tooling projects from concept through production launch, including timelines, budgets, technical deliverables, and supplier coordination.
• Partner with Product Development, Manufacturing Engineering, Quality, and Operations teams to support successful product launches.
• Conduct tooling design reviews and provide Design for Manufacturability (DFM) recommendations.
• Evaluate tooling performance and identify opportunities to improve quality, reliability, cycle times, and overall productivity.
• Utilize mold flow analysis, engineering simulations, and structured problem-solving techniques to resolve tooling and manufacturing challenges.
• Support prototype development, validation activities, and production qualification efforts.
• Investigate root causes of tooling issues and implement corrective actions to improve long-term performance.
• Establish tooling standards, best practices, and preventative maintenance strategies.
• Support supplier selection, tooling procurement, and tool shop performance management activities.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to technicians, manufacturing personnel, suppliers, and engineering team members.
• Develop and maintain tooling documentation, engineering records, specifications, and maintenance plans.
• Drive continuous improvement projects focused on manufacturing efficiency, product quality, and cost reduction.
• Ensure compliance with company policies, engineering standards, quality requirements, and safety guidelines.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

What We’re Looking For: 

• Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Plastics Engineering, or related engineering discipline.
• 4-6 years of experience in tooling engineering, mold design, tooling development, or injection molding manufacturing environments.
• Strong knowledge of injection molding processes, mold construction, tooling systems, and plastic material behavior.
• Experience designing and troubleshooting injection molds in a manufacturing environment.
• Proficiency with CAD software including SolidWorks, AutoCAD, NX, or similar platforms.
• Experience using mold flow analysis software to optimize tooling and process performance.
• Working knowledge of Design for Manufacturability (DFM), GD&T, and engineering change management processes.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple technical projects simultaneously.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and troubleshooting skills.
• Excellent communication and cross-functional collaboration abilities.
• Experience working with suppliers, mold builders, tool shops, and manufacturing partners preferred.

Preferred Qualifications: 

• Experience supporting new product introductions and production launches.
• Experience with scientific molding principles and process validation.
• Experience in high-volume injection molding manufacturing environments.
• Familiarity with Lean Manufacturing and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Experience supporting products within regulated industries such as aerospace, defense, medical devices, or industrial manufacturing.

What’s In It For You: 

Join a company that truly values its employees! We offer a relaxed and casual work environment, a strong commitment to giving back to communities, and a focus on employee satisfaction. With regular opportunities to share feedback with leadership and structured performance evaluations, we ensure that your voice is heard and your growth is supported.

• Competitive paid time off plans / Holiday pay / extra vacation purchase opportunities
• Relocation assistance available for qualified candidates
• 401(k) with immediate company match
• Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage
• Health Savings Account Contribution
• Wellness Discount Program
• Global Mental Wellness Program
• Quarterly Employee Celebration Days
• Peer-to-Peer Recognition Program
• Service Recognition Program
• Employee Referral Program
• Employee discounts on Pelican products and gear
• Career growth opportunities across Engineering, Operations, and Product Development
• Work on products trusted by military personnel, first responders, industrial professionals, and explorers around the world
• Collaborate with experienced engineers and manufacturing teams while influencing products from concept through production
• Established global brand offering premium products you'll be proud to support
• And more...