SUMMARY

A Design Engineer – R&D (Automation) combines expertise in mechanical/tooling design with automation technologies to drive innovation in automated tooling systems, production processes, and advanced manufacturing solutions. This position plays a pivotal role in designing, developing, and implementing next-generation tooling solutions that leverage automation to improve efficiency, precision, reducing costs, and delivering high-performance automated tooling solutions for our customers.
This role will combine strong mechanical design expertise with knowledge of automation technologies, including robotics, sensors, and control systems, to create innovative tooling solutions tailored for high-performance sheet metal manufacturing environments. Beyond design work, this role requires collaboration across multiple disciplines—working closely with electrical engineers embedded systems engineers, and production teams—to ensure seamless integration of automated systems into customers tooling and production lines.
This position will make a significant impact on Wilson Tool’s R&D initiatives by driving automation innovation through a passion for exploring new technologies, solving complex engineering challenges, and contributing to the company’s vision of advancing automated tooling solutions in line with Industry 4.0.
This position offers the opportunity to directly influence Wilson Tool’s R&D roadmap, working at the intersection of tooling innovation and automation to push the boundaries of what’s possible in modern manufacturing.

A Design Engineer – R&D (Automation) at Wilson Tool will:

• Lead automation-driven design projects that enhance tooling performance and manufacturing productivity.
• Integrate robotics, sensors, and control systems into tooling designs to achieve higher precision and consistency.
• Support Industry 4.0 initiatives by applying smart manufacturing technologies to tooling solutions.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, Automation Engineering, or related field.
• 3–5 years of experience in design engineering, preferably in tooling or automated manufacturing systems.
• Hands-on experience with automation technologies (robotics, sensors, PLC integration, etc.).
• Background in R&D or product development is highly desirable.
• Minimum of 3 - 5 years’ SolidWorks CAD software experience required.
• Knowledge of automation hardware (actuators, pneumatics, robotics) and control systems.
• Strong knowledge of manufacturing processes such as CNC machining, stamping, forming, and heat treatment.
• Solid knowledge with GD&T, FEA, and materials engineering.
• Ability to work quickly and accurately & communicate as part of a team.
• Attention to detail and problem-solving ability.
• SAP experience helpful.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Ability to work independently and in teams.
• Good interpersonal communication skills at all levels and strong written and oral communication skills
• The ideal candidate is a self-starter who takes the initiative to identify areas of opportunity and act.
• Willingness to work outside your comfort zone and learn new things.
• Competence in computer applications, including Microsoft Office, and the ability to use technology as a decision-support tool.

• Automation & Tooling Development
• Develop and design automation-enabled tooling solutions to optimize manufacturing processes.
• Integrate mechanical, pneumatic, hydraulic, and/or robotic systems into tooling designs.
• Create detailed 3D CAD models, assemblies, and 2D technical drawings with automation specifications
• Conduct design reviews, tolerance analyses, and validation of tooling designs.
• R&D Innovation
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to identify opportunities for product innovation.
• Research and evaluate emerging automation technologies, including robotics, sensors, and control systems, for integration into tooling solutions.
• Prototype and test automated tooling concepts to validate functionality and efficiency improvements.
• Contribute to the development of smart manufacturing initiatives, including Industry 4.0 applications.
• Testing & Validation
• Plan and execute design validation through simulations, prototyping, and real-world testing.
• Troubleshoot and optimize automation components for performance, reliability, and safety.
• Collaborate with electrical and embedded systems engineers and software specialists to ensure seamless system integration.
• Support prototype builds, testing, and performance evaluations.
• Iterate designs based on test outcomes and customer feedback.
• Manufacturing Support
• Work closely with production teams to ensure manufacturability and cost-effectiveness.
• Provide engineering support for process improvements and tooling optimization.
• Support customer-facing teams by providing technical expertise in automated tooling systems.
• Documentation & Compliance
• Prepare and maintain engineering documentation, including design records, and reports.
• Engages in and actively volunteers for Continuous Improvement projects/tasks.
• Participates in and sustains 5S.
• Miscellaneous duties as needed.