NPI Mold Design EngineerUS-CA-Irvine
Job ID: 2026-16535
Type: Employee
# of Openings: 1
Category: Engineering/R&D
US-CA-Irvine-2851
OverviewThe NPI Mold Design Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and implementing new injection molds, tooling, and manufacturing processes that support the launch of new Mil/Aero interconnect products at ITT Cannon. This role ensures that connector components-particularly highprecision molded insulators, inserts, seals, and other engineered polymer parts-are tooled and manufactured to meet rigorous industry standards (MILDTL, AS9100) and customer requirements.
The engineer plays a key role in crossfunctional NPI teams and supports concept development, DFM/DFA, mold flow simulation, tooling validation, and production readiness activities.
ResponsibilitiesMold & Tooling Design- Design highprecision injection molds (single- and multicavity) for thermoplastic, thermoset, and elastomer components used in Mil/Aero connector products.
- Create detailed 3D models, 2D drawings, BOMs, and specification packages using CAD software (SolidWorks, Creo, NX preferred).
- Conduct DFM/DFA analysis to ensure mold designs support manufacturability, dimensional accuracy, and longterm tooling reliability.
- Perform mold flow analysis using Moldflow, Sigmasoft, or equivalent software to assess gate location, fill patterns, warp, cooling, venting, and material behavior.
- Collaborate with internal tooling shops and external toolmakers to refine designs and ensure tooling feasibility.
New Product Introduction (NPI) Engineering- Participate in gate reviews, project planning, and crossfunctional NPI engineering meetings.
- Translate product design intent into robust tooling concepts and manufacturing solutions.
- Define material selections, molding parameters, and processing requirements for new connector components.
- Support prototyping, sample builds, and EVT/DVT/PVT phases.
- Drive part qualification activities including FAI, PPAP, capability studies, and mold validation protocols.
Manufacturing Support- Partner with Manufacturing Engineering and Production teams to troubleshoot tooling, part quality, and molding issues.
- Optimize cycle times, cooling performance, and mold longevity through design improvements.
- Support molding trials, including tool tuning, vent adjustments, gating changes, and dimensional improvements.
- Provide training and technical support to mold technicians and operators during rampup and SOP transitions.
Quality & Compliance- Ensure mold and part designs align with Mil/Aero standards (MILDTL, AS9100) and ITT Cannon design guidelines.
- Conduct root cause analysis and implement corrective actions for tooling or part defects.
- Maintain accurate documentation, design records, and revision histories in accordance with quality system requirements.
Qualifications- Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Tooling Engineering, or related field.
- 3+ years of experience in injection mold design, preferably in precision components or connector industry.
- Strong proficiency with 3D CAD tools (SolidWorks, Creo, or NX).
- Experience with mold flow simulation tools.
- Solid understanding of mold design principles: gating, venting, cooling, shrinkage, tolerancing, and material flow.
- Handson experience with hightemperature engineering resins (PEEK, PPS, LCP), thermosets, or elastomers.
- Familiarity with GD&T, ASME Y14.5, and precision tooling tolerances.
- Experience in NPI processes, product validation, and manufacturing readiness.
- Travel periodically, up to 20%
Preferred:
- Prior experience supporting Mil/Aero, Defense, or highly regulated industries.
- Knowledge of MILDTL connector families (38999, 26482, 5015, etc.).
- Experience with AS9100 environments and FAI/PPAP documentation.
- Understanding of highperformance tooling steels, coatings, and mold maintenance practices.
- Experience managing external tool shops or offshore tooling vendors.
- Strong problemsolving skills using 8D, DMAIC, or similar methodologies.
Key Competencies
- Technical design expertise
- Strong attention to detail
- Crossfunctional communication
- Project management & organization
- Root-cause analysis & troubleshooting
- Ability to work independently and in team settings
- Continuous improvement mindset
Equal employment opportunity, including veterans and individuals with disabilities.
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