Design Engineer – Plastics Fabrication

About the role

Dave Barry Plastics Ltd is looking for a skilled Design Engineer to join its plastics fabrication workshop in the Dungarvan area. You will create detailed designs for plastic components, assemblies, jigs and fixtures while ensuring they are manufacturable, cost‑effective and meet customer requirements.

Key responsibilities

• Develop 2D and 3D CAD models for plastic parts using Spaceclaim, SolidWorks, Autodesk Inventor or AutoCAD.
• Translate customer concepts and sketches into production‑ready drawings, cutting lists and technical documentation.
• Perform design‑for‑manufacture (DFM) evaluations and select appropriate plastics (acrylic, polycarbonate, PVC, HDPE, ABS).
• Collaborate with workshop staff to align designs with CNC routing, laser cutting, thermoforming, bending, bonding and welding capabilities.
• Troubleshoot design or production issues and propose practical solutions.
• Prepare design proposals, cost estimates and feasibility assessments for sales and project managers.
• Maintain organized design files and contribute to continuous‑improvement initiatives.

Required profile

• Degree or diploma in Mechanical Engineering, Design Engineering, Product Design or equivalent experience.
• Proven experience with CAD‑to‑CAM workflows and CNC programming.
• Strong understanding of plastics fabrication processes and material properties.
• Excellent problem‑solving abilities and attention to detail.

Required skills

• Spaceclaim (or Discovery) CAD software.
• SolidWorks, Autodesk Inventor, AutoCAD.
• CNC programming.
• CAM software.
• Plastics material selection and DFM evaluation.

What we offer

• Full‑time, on‑site position in a supportive workshop environment.
• Opportunity to work on diverse custom plastic projects.
• Collaborative team culture focused on craftsmanship and continuous improvement.