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Design and Fabrication Engineer

Dolav USA, Grand Rapids, MI, United States


Role Summary

The Design & Fabrication Engineer serves as the technical bridge between customer vision and physical production. The role is responsible for the engineered-to-order modification of injection-molded products (bins and pallets) to meet specific industrial requirements. This role requires a blend of CAD design, project management, and hands-on shop floor support to ensure custom storage and transport solutions are functional, cost-effective, and ready for production. The role also includes deep understanding of customer and distributor needs, defining tailored solutions, and leading their implementation across different regions (U.S., Europe, and Israel).


Role Expectations

  • Create accurate SolidWorks models and drawings for custom and short-run fabrications.
  • Serve as a technical resource for the commercial team, distributors, and customers, providing drawings, quotes, and technical support.
  • Support custom fabrication by converting designs into clear production steps and documented procedures.
  • Improve efficiency and quality by optimizing tooling, processes, and programs to reduce cycle time.
  • Manage distributor and customer requests for non-standard products, refining requirements to deliver optimal solutions.
  • Assess feasibility and implementation risks for custom products.
  • Analyze failed orders and apply lessons learned to improve future outcomes.


General Responsibilities

  • Modify existing SolidWorks models to create custom footprints, dimensions, access doors, and integrated features per client specifications.
  • Produce accurate BOMs, production drawings, and cost estimates for quoting and fabrication.
  • Provide on-the-floor troubleshooting to resolve fitment, equipment, and machining issues.
  • Maintain and troubleshoot fabrication equipment (saws, welders, robotics) to ensure safety and minimize downtime.
  • Independently manage custom projects from concept through completion, partnering with Sales and Production.
  • Maintain organized CAD data, reference drawings, and PDM documentation with proper version control.
  • Create complete product files, including customer drawings, BOMs, and detailed cost analyses (labor, setups, hardware, and resources).
  • Develop and maintain a structured knowledge base by industry and solution.
  • Support distributors during customer visits, job walks, and trade events; gather requirements and assess competitive solutions.
  • Analyze customization trends and market patterns, presenting insights to leadership.
  • Create item numbers, manufacturing files, and routings as needed.
  • Support production throughout manufacturing to ensure quality and standards compliance.


Minimum Education, Experience & Skill Requirements

  • Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering or Product Design & Manufacturing
  • Proficiency in SolidWorks CAD – 3D and 2D design, drawings and GD&T
  • Strong mechanical, technical and design aptitude
  • Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw conclusions
  • High attention to detail, strong organizational and follow-up skills
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities independently
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills
  • Creative problem-solving mindset
  • Technically adept across Windows OS and MS365


Preferred Education, Experience & Skill Requirements

  • 3–5 years of experience in Mechanical Engineering or Product Design & Manufacturing
  • ABB Robot Control and Programming
  • SAP Business One or other ERP systems
  • Machine Maintenance/TPM
  • Production Machine Design/Project Management
  • Production Process Management and Standard Work Creation
  • Machine Troubleshooting
  • Plastic Welding
  • Design and Perform Product Testing (Per ASTM/ISO standards)
  • Added preferred competencies:
  • Experience leading complex projects with milestones, timelines, and budgets
  • Strong ability to manage interfaces and build trust with strategic partners
  • System-level thinking, creativity, initiative, and ability to operate effectively under ambiguity