What are the responsibilities and job description for the Principal Engineer position at Drake Plastics?
About the Role:
Drake Plastics is seeking an innovative and experienced Principal Engineer to lead the design and development of custom-engineered machinery used in manufacturing high-performance thermoplastics. This role demands deep expertise in mechanical principles, materials science, and manufacturing processes, along with the ability to develop groundbreaking solutions for demanding applications in a global market.
At Drake, we don’t follow best practices—we create them. Our Engineering team pioneers new methods in polymer processing, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in thermoplastics manufacturing. The ideal candidate is a lifelong learner, problem solver, and leader who thrives in an environment that values creativity, precision, and innovation.
Primary Duties/Responsibilities:
- Be a leader of the design and development of mechanical systems, components, and custom machinery using resources available.
- Innovate by developing new products and processes that enhance manufacturing capabilities.
- Engineer with precision by creating detailed technical drawings, specifications, and conducting feasibility studies.
- Validate and optimize designs through simulations, FEA/CFD analysis, rapid prototyping, and hands-on assembly and testing.
- Solve complex problems through failure analysis, root cause identification, and corrective action implementation.
- Collaborate across teams to ensure seamless integration of designs with production, quality, and automated systems.
- Mentor and train team members, sharing knowledge and fostering technical excellence.
Key Attributes/ Typical Skills / Experience / Education:
- Education: Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related discipline.
- Experience: Minimum 5 years designing mechanical systems, preferably in a manufacturing environment.
- Technical Skills:
- Proficiency in SolidWorks (preferred) or other CAD software (Inventor, Creo), using a PDM/PLM software.
- Expertise in FEA/CFD for system component analysis.
- Strong grasp of mechanical design principles, thermoplastics processing, materials engineering, AI prompt engineering, and automation.
- Experience in hydraulic, electromechanical, or robotic systems is a plus.
- Experience working hands-on in a shop environment, or with personal hands-on garage or workshop hobbies is a plus.
- Mindset & Soft Skills:
- Curious, innovative, and committed to lifelong learning.
- Strong analytical problem-solver with a passion for tackling unique challenges.
- Excellent communicator and mentor, comfortable collaborating with cross-functional teams.
Work Environment / Schedule: (as applicable)
Open shop/office environment with a high level of direct interaction with on-site production facilities. Work schedule is Monday – Friday, during standard business hours.
Why Join Us?
- Work on cutting-edge engineering challenges in high-performance plastics.
- Be a part of a team that creates industry best practices rather than following them.
- Enjoy a collaborative, high-caliber engineering environment with a focus on innovation.
- Shape the future of advanced thermoplastics manufacturing.
If you're a high-level problem solver who thrives in engineering-first environments, we want to hear from you. Apply today to be a part of a team that pushes boundaries and redefines possibilities.
Drake Plastics is a drug-free workplace. All applicants who receive conditional offers of employment will be subjected to pre-employment drug testing.
