Principal Molding Engineer

Principal Molding EngineerSoutheast MichiganPrecision components. Real ownership. High-impact hire.This manufacturer is expanding rapidly within a high-growth segment of the medical technology market, supporting next-generation surgical systems. As they scale, they are investing heavily in their plastics and molding capabilities, including precision injection molding, micro molding, and overmolding.They are looking for a hands-on molding engineer who can help elevate their technical capabilities and play a key role in how their plastics operation grows.Why this role matters right nowThe business is at an inflection point. Historically strong in other manufacturing areas, they are now actively building out their plastics expertise, bringing more work in-house and expanding capabilities like overmolding and precision micro-scale components.They need someone who can step in as a technical leader on the plastics side, helping guide process development, tooling decisions, and long-term capability growth.This is a smaller, collaborative team where engineers have real influence. The culture is consistently described as low bureaucracy, high trust, and strong work-life balance, with leadership that understands what a good engineering environment looks like.What you will ownDevelop and optimize injection molding and overmolding processes for high-precision componentsSupport process development, mold trials, and production ramp-up for new programsImprove process stability, repeatability, and yield, especially on tight-tolerance partsPartner with tooling resources on DFM, mold design, and manufacturabilityHelp expand internal plastics capabilities, including new equipment and processesServe as a key plastics/process voice within a broader engineering teamWork cross-functionally with engineering, operations, and program teamsMust-have experienceHands-on injection molding process engineering experienceBackground in precision molding, overmolding, or micro molding environmentsStrong process development, troubleshooting, and optimization skillsExperience working closely with tooling and mold designStrong additional signalsExperience with small or tight-tolerance componentsExposure to high-performance polymers (PEEK, nylons, etc.)Background in regulated manufacturing (medical device preferred, not required)Experience with validation (IQ/OQ/PQ) or scientific molding approachesWhat you can expectDirect impact on next-generation medical and surgical technologies4-day work week (10-hour shifts)Private company environment with minimal red tapeA team that values engineering input and practical problem solvingStrong work-life balance with limited off-hours disruptionOpportunity to shape and grow a plastics capability from withinCompetitive benefits packageTarget compensation: $130,000 – $160,000 (flexible based on experience)What this role is notNot a siloed or purely support engineering roleNot a constant firefighting production environmentNot a large corporate structure with layers of approvalIf you have experience in injection molding, overmolding, or micro molding and want a role where you can actually influence how things are built and scaled, this is worth a conversation.