New Product Development Engineer

Company Overview
Ideal Clamp Products, globally known as Ideal Tridon, is the North American leader in designing, manufacturing, and distributing engineered clamps and No Hub Couplings for Aftermarket Industrial, Plumbing & Hardware Markets, as well as Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM). Visit us at www.IdealTridon.com.

Headquartered in Smyrna, TN (a suburb of Nashville, TN), Ideal Tridon supports manufacturing and distribution facilities in Smyrna, TN; Matamoros, MX; Weilerswist, Germany; Mumbai, India; Kudowa, Poland; and Suzhou, China. Our company is poised for global market expansion with a product line consisting of engineered and patented products designed to meet industry needs.

With a history dating back to the early 20th century, Ideal Tridon is one of the most respected manufacturers in its industry. Our commitment to premium quality has enabled us to grow with customers who demand reliability and performance in their products. Currently, we maintain market dominance in North America and leverage strong engineering resources at our headquarters and manufacturing sites to support sales and application engineering efforts.

Position: Product (Development) Engineer

I. Scope:
The Product (Development) Engineer is a vital member of the Ideal Tridon Group (ITG) engineering team, playing a key role in driving the development and delivery of innovative products that meet both the technical requirements and commercial expectations of our customers. This position involves a high degree of interaction with clients to understand their specific needs and translate these into engineering solutions, utilizing a range of design and analytical tools. The engineer will oversee the complete lifecycle of product development from conceptualization through design, testing, and final production. He (she) is expected to professionally represent ITG as an authoritative figure for product, application, and new product development.

II. Responsibility and Authority:

• Ensure all engineered products are designed and launched to meet customer standards and requirements while optimizing costs and enhancing production efficiency.
• Proactively approach product design and problem-solving and demonstrate excellent communication skills.
• Support and initiate innovative ideas beyond the core product line.
• Maintain and protect all company, supplier, and customer proprietary and confidential information.
• Wear appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) when required.

III. Essential Functions:

• Customer Engagement:
  
  • Function as the primary engineering contact for customers, providing tailored solutions and ongoing communication.
  • Engage directly with customers to determine their technical needs and requirements.
  • Accompany Sales as the technical liaison on customer visits to promote new growth opportunities.
• Product Design and Development:
  
  • Utilize SolidWorks and FEA simulations to design cost-effective and manufacturable products.
  • Issue, review, and manage ECN documentation for change management.
  • Demonstrate expertise in APQP methodology and optimize designs for manufacturability.
  • Resolve engineering issues using FMEA and oversee prototype testing and validation (DVP&R, DOE).
  • Develop and interpret test plans, data, and presentation materials for internal and external customers.
• Familiarity with Manufacturing Processes:
  
  • Die Casting and Forged Components
  • Metal Stamping (100 - 300 Ton) or Roll Mill Processes
  • V-profile (V-insert clamp) production experience is a plus
• Project Management:
  
  • Support APQP Coordinator and internal manufacturing teams for efficient project execution.
  • Maintain communication with the customer's engineering team to drive design freeze.
• Compliance and Quality Control:
  
  • Design and manufacture clamps and components compliant with North American, European, Chinese, and Indian quality standards.
  • Ensure adherence to national and international quality and safety standards.
• Innovation and Continuous Improvement:
  
  • Identify and implement technological advancements to enhance product performance and manufacturing processes.
  • Produce and interpret technical data for internal and external teams to improve products and gain a competitive advantage.
• Professional Development:
  
  • Stay updated on technological advancements and industry trends.
  • Share knowledge and best practices with team members to support engineering team growth.

IV. Position Requirements:

• A bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering is required; a Master's degree is advantageous but not necessary.
• At least 10+ years of relevant experience in product design and development, preferably in a manufacturing environment.
• Experience in industries such as automotive, aerospace, or industrial manufacturing preferred.
• Advanced skills in CAD software such as SolidWorks, NX, or Creo.
• Experience with FEA and/or engineering simulation software for product testing and optimization.
• Ability to produce detailed technical documentation, including design specifications and testing protocols.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and attention to detail.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a team environment.
• Strong organizational and project management skills.

V. Physical Requirements:

• Regular standing, sitting, and walking are required.
• Must be capable of climbing stairs, kneeling, and occasionally lifting/moving objects up to 25 pounds.
• Adequate vision to read fine print, component, and assembly drawings required.
• Frequent domestic and international travel is required.
• Must be proficient in English (verbal and written communication).

Ideal Tridon is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to diversity and inclusion. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.