Product Design and R&D Engineer

GWS Tool Group; Menomonee Falls (WI); On-site; USD 85,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

GWS Tool Group seeks a Product Design and R&D Engineer to drive the research, design, development, testing and commercialization of cutting tool solutions. This role leads projects from concept through production, collaborating with Engineering, Manufacturing, Quality, Sales and external partners.

The position requires 5 years in product development or R&D, a Bachelor's in mechanical or manufacturing engineering, and strong CAD/CAM skills (AutoCAD, SolidWorks, Siemens NX, Mastercam).

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in mechanical or manufacturing engineering.
• 5 years of product development/R&D/manufacturing or cutting tool design experience.
• Proven knowledge of metal cutting and CAD/CAM tools.

Responsibilities

• Lead development of cutting tool products from concept through commercialization.
• Research emerging technologies, materials, coatings, and manufacturing methods.
• Design and optimize cutting tools (solid carbide, carbide-tipped, ceramic, PCD, CBN).
• Develop and validate product performance through lab and production testing.
• Create test plans and provide data-driven recommendations.
• Collaborate with manufacturing to transition new products to production.
• Prepare technical reports, specifications, and product documentation.

Skills

Cross-functional collaboration

Analytical problem-solving

Project management

Strong communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in mechanical or manufacturing engineering

Tools

AutoCAD

SolidWorks

Siemens NX

Mastercam

Job description

Job Title: Product Design and R&D Engineer

Department: Corporate

Reports to: Director of Engineering

Classification: Exempt

Location: Open to all GWS production locations

Travel: Yes

Job Summary: The Product Development & R&D Engineer is responsible for the research, design, development, testing, and commercialization of innovative cutting tool solutions and manufacturing technologies. This role drives product development from concept through production, while evaluating emerging technologies, digital tools, advanced materials, and manufacturing processes that support the company's strategic growth objectives. The engineer works closely with Engineering, Business Development, Manufacturing, Quality, Sales, and external technology partners to bring innovative products and capabilities to market.

Duties/Responsibilities:

• Lead the development of cutting tool products from concept through commercialization
• Research and evaluate emerging technologies, materials, coatings, manufacturing methods, and industry trends
• Design and optimize solid carbide, carbide-tipped, ceramic, PCD, CBN and specialty cutting tools
• Develop and validate product performance through laboratory and production testing
• Create test plans, analyze results, and provide data-driven recommendations
• Investigate manufacturing technologies including coatings, grades, additive manufacturing, and digital solutions
• Develop and implement digital engineering tools, databases, software applications, and AI-driven solutions to improve efficiency and innovation
• Collaborate with manufacturing teams to ensure successful transition of new products into production
• Conduct competitive benchmarking and product performance studies.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives focused on product performance, quality, cost, and manufacturability
• Maintain awareness of market trends, customer requirements, and industry advancements
• Prepare technical reports, presentations, specifications, and product documentation
• Support end-user activities at customers and machine tool builders
• Work with design team to optimize processes and procedures

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as mechanical or manufacturing engineering
• Proven experience (5 years) in product development, R&D, manufacturing, or cutting tool design
• Advanced application knowledge and experience in metal cutting
• Desired CAD/CAM- AutoCAD, SolidWorks, Siemens NX and/or Mastercam
• Analytical and problem-solving skills of basic manufacturing processes
• Strong organizational and project management skills with the ability to prioritize tasks and meet deadlines
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate with diverse teams and stakeholders

Physical Requirements:

• Light work that includes moving objects up to 20 pounds at a time
• Prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer
• Ability to drive or fly to all facilities

Other Information

• Travel is required (desired 30%), domestic and international

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, age, genetic information, or any other factors prohibited by law.