Design Engineer

Role overview

We are looking for a practical and inventive Design Engineer to support a plastics fabrication workshop in the Dungarvan area of Waterford, Ireland. The position sits within a well-established manufacturer focused on producing high-quality plastic fabrication solutions and working in a team-oriented environment that values craftsmanship and precision.

What you'll do

• Create detailed 2D and 3D models for plastic parts, assemblies, jigs, and fixtures using CAD tools such as SpaceClaim, SolidWorks, Autodesk Inventor, and AutoCAD.
• Convert customer ideas, sketches, and written specifications into designs that can be produced efficiently on the shop floor.
• Prepare engineering drawings, cutting schedules, and technical documents needed for manufacturing.
• Apply design-for-manufacture thinking to improve buildability, assembly, and overall production efficiency.
• Partner with workshop staff to understand production methods including CNC routing, laser cutting, thermoforming, bending, bonding, and plastic welding.
• Support the production team with technical advice during fabrication and assembly stages.
• Identify design or manufacturing issues and recommend workable corrective actions.
• Choose suitable plastic materials such as acrylic, polycarbonate, PVC, HDPE, and ABS based on performance, application, and ease of manufacture.
• Take tolerances, mechanical characteristics, and environmental factors into account when developing designs.
• Work with sales and project managers to review customer needs and provide technical recommendations.
• Assist with design proposals, pricing estimates, and feasibility checks.
• Communicate directly with customers when needed to clarify requirements or refine design details.
• Ensure all designs align with quality expectations and any relevant safety or industry requirements.
• Help drive improvement initiatives across the engineering and fabrication workflow.
• Keep design records and documentation well organised in line with company standards.

Requirements

• A degree or diploma in Mechanical Engineering, Design Engineering, Product Design, or equivalent practical experience.
• Confident use of CAD software, with SpaceClaim or Discovery being preferred.
• Solid knowledge of plastics fabrication methods and workshop processes.
• A hands-on, solution-focused approach with strong troubleshooting ability.
• Capability to juggle several projects at once while meeting deadlines.
• Good communication skills and a collaborative working style.
• Prior experience in a plastics manufacturing or fabrication setting is an advantage.
• Exposure to CNC programming or CAM tools is desirable.
• Understanding of thermoplastic material behaviour is beneficial.
• Experience with prototyping and rapid manufacturing techniques is a plus.

What we offer

• A competitive salary and benefits package.
• Access to training and professional development opportunities.
• A cooperative workshop environment that encourages innovation.
• Potential for career growth within a developing engineering and fabrication team.

About the employer

The company is a long-standing plastics manufacturer known for delivering quality fabrication work and maintaining a strong team culture.