Manager, Design Engineering

About the role

This role is responsible for leading and managing the Design Engineering function supporting thermoformed medical packaging solutions. The position integrates engineering design resources into a cohesive, high-performing team focused on product development, package design, tooling, and commercialization execution.

Responsibilities

• Team Leadership & Organizational Development
• Build, lead, and develop a high-performance Design Engineering team specializing in thermoformed medical packaging.
• Create a clear vision and strategic roadmap for the evolution of the department aligned with business growth objectives.
• Foster a safe, compliant, and inclusive work environment, ensuring adherence to all safety and quality standards.
• Lead talent development through coaching, performance management, training, and succession planning.
• Promote collaboration and knowledge-sharing across locations and cross-functional teams.
• Product Development & Design Engineering
• Lead the end-to-end design and development of thermoformed medical packaging solutions, including trays, blisters, and related components.
• Drive innovative packaging concepts while optimizing existing designs for manufacturability, cost, and performance.
• Oversee design execution using CAD tools (e.g., SolidWorks) and other engineering technologies.
• Provide expertise in concept development through 3D modeling, renderings, and prototyping.
• Reverse engineering and 3D scanning
• Ensure designs meet regulatory, sterilization, and material compatibility requirements for medical applications.
• Tooling & Vendor Management
• Manage tooling development process, including mold design and thermoforming tooling suppliers.
• Collaborate with suppliers and internal teams to accelerate development timelines and resolve technical issues.
• New Business Commercialization
• Lead the transformation of the team toward a project management–driven organization, enabling effective execution of new product commercialization.
• Partner with cross-functional teams (Engineering, Manufacturing, Quality, Sales & Marketing, Regulatory, and Supply Chain) to ensure seamless project execution.
• Translate customer and market requirements into technical solutions and actionable development plans.
• Operational & Technical Excellence
• Drive continuous improvement in design processes, systems, and interdepartmental communication.
• Maintain responsibility for departmental equipment, software, and technical capabilities, recommending upgrades as needed.
• Stay current on thermoforming technologies, materials innovation, and medical packaging trends.
• Optimize resource allocation to balance speed, cost, and quality objectives.
• Facilitate and drive Toppan's Global Performance System (GPS) in the design engineering area.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Packaging Science, or Industrial Design.
• Minimum 5+ years of experience in thermoforming or closely related plastics manufacturing environments.
• Strong experience in:
• Medical packaging design and development
• Thermoforming processes and tooling
• Project management and new product commercialization
• Regulatory familiarity (ISO 13485, validation, cleanroom familiarity)
• Customer-facing project management (direct OEM interaction, design reviews)
• Proficiency with CAD and design tools (e.g., SolidWorks).
• Working knowledge of medical packaging requirements (sterilization methods, barrier systems, validation expectations) preferred.

Qualifications

• Experience in medical device and healthcare industries.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Skills

• Thermoforming and medical packaging design.
• Project management and new product commercialization.
• Regulatory compliance and medical device knowledge.
• Collaboration and teamwork.
• Problem-solving and critical thinking.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage for you and your dependents, including FSA and HSA options.
• 401(k) retirement plan with company match.
• Employee Assistance Program with a variety of services.
• Paid time off and holidays.
• Variety of company-paid and voluntary insurance plans including life, personal accident, and disability insurance.
• Tuition reimbursement.

Pay

The annual base salary range for this role is from $140,000 to $160,000. An annual bonus is awarded to eligible employees upon attaining various business and individual goals as defined by the Company and the department leader. This annual bonus is discretionary, and the Company has sole discretion to determine the amount of the award.

Schedule

This is an onsite position located out of Huntley, IL.