Product Designer

Summary:

IFR is a leader in the design and mass production of custom, returnable material handling systems utilizing multi-material assemblies like plastics, foams, and steel. We specialize in providing innovative, engineered packaging solutions for high-stakes industries including automotive, aerospace, and electronics, ensuring the safe transport of delicate components.

This role involves designing innovative, cost-effective packaging solutions by collaborating with sales and production teams to develop technical drawings and prototypes. You will leverage a strong understanding of materials and structural design to manage multiple projects while ensuring compliance with industry standards.

Type: Exempt, Full-time & In-Person (Zeeland, MI)

Responsibilities:

• Lead the end-to-end development of custom returnable material handling systems, utilizing SolidWorks to create complex 3D models, assemblies, and detailed technical drawings.
• Create innovative new products and modify existing designs to improve durability and ergonomics, including custom dunnage and industrial fabric line extensions.
• Evaluate and test industrial textiles, foams, plastics, and hardware to ensure compatibility with heavy-duty sewing applications and long-term returnable cycles.
• Act as the primary technical point of contact for customer inquiries, translating complex client requirements into functional, manufacturable designs.
• Conceptualize, build physical prototypes (including soft-goods patterns), and execute rigorous testing cycles to validate design integrity and load requirements.
• Apply advanced engineering principles to resolve design challenges, leveraging professional experience to implement creative solutions for protective packaging.
• Work with minimal supervision to define project scope and technical approaches, serving as the lead designer on high-impact accounts.
• Guide junior designers and technicians on best practices for 3D modeling standards and industrial sewing manufacturing constraints.
• Build and maintain strategic relationships with material suppliers, production teams, and end-users to ensure design alignment.
• Maintain high organizational standards through meticulous file management in SolidWorks (PDM/PLM) and accurate data entry within the company ERP system.
• Implement risk mitigation strategies by identifying potential points of failure in designs to minimize company exposure and production waste.

Requirements:

• Computer Aided Design (CAD) capability. SolidWorks experience.
• Must have the ability to develop, design, draw and interpret CAD drawings.
• Must be able to envision 3-D and isometric images mentally.
• Ability to understand, communicate, read, and write in English.
• Ability to proficiently use Excel and other Microsoft 365 applications.
• Ability to learn and become proficient in our ERP software.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to travel, as required.
• Able to lift and/or move up to 25 lbs. occasionally.

Qualifications:

• 3-5 years of relevant experience and/or training, preferably in the industrial packaging environment.
• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent combination of education and experience will be considered.
• High attention to detail and strong reliability.
• Thrives in a fast-paced environment.
• Demonstrated ability to optimize processes and workflows.
• Familiarity with Lean Manufacturing principles and 5S workplace organization standards is preferred.

Benefits:

• Medical, Dental, & Vision Insurance
• Paid Time Off (PTO)
• 9 Paid Holidays
• 401(k) Plan & Company Match
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Company-Paid Wellness Program
• Company-Paid Short/Long-Term Disability
• Company-Paid Group Life & AD&D insurance

Pay: From $60,000.00 per year

Work Location: In person