Product Design and R&D Engineer

GWS Tool Group; South Beloit (IL); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

GWS Tool Group is seeking a Product Design and R&D Engineer open to all production locations to lead the development of cutting tool products from concept through commercialization. The role requires researching technologies, designing tools such as solid carbide, carbide-tipped, ceramic, PCD, CBN, and coordinating with engineering, manufacturing, quality, and sales.

Candidates should have a bachelor’s in engineering, 5 years of experience, and CAD/CAM proficiency (AutoCAD, SolidWorks, Siemens

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in mechanical or manufacturing engineering.
• 5 years in product development or cutting tool design.
• CAD/CAM experience with AutoCAD, SolidWorks, Siemens NX and/or Mastercam.
• Analytical and problem-solving skills in manufacturing processes.
• Strong organizational and project management skills.
• Excellent communication and teamwork.

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.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Project management

Communication skills

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.