Industrial Product Development Engineer for Premium Injection-Molded Fishing Tackle System

Project Description We are developing a premium modular carp fishing tackle storage system under our new brand Vantexa, targeting the UK and European carp fishing market. The project has progressed beyond the concept stage. We have completed the product architecture, internal layouts, dimensional planning, and development brief. We are now seeking an experienced Product Development Engineer to help transform our concept into a manufacturable, production-ready product. This is not a simple CAD drafting project. We are looking for someone who can contribute to product development, challenge assumptions where appropriate, and apply practical engineering knowledge to create a premium product suitable for plastic injection molding. About the Product The Phase 1 product includes: Premium large modular tackle box Removable internal tray system Modular Core Pod (book-style storage pod) Two removable Mini Pods Modular divider system Integrated rig board Premium injection-molded construction The product is designed around workflow optimization, allowing anglers to organize and access tackle efficiently while fishing. Scope of Work The selected engineer will work closely with us to: Phase 1 – Product Architecture Review Review our existing product concept and development brief Evaluate overall product architecture Suggest improvements for usability, ergonomics, manufacturability, and durability Review modular component integration Identify potential engineering or injection molding concerns Recommend improvements before detailed CAD development Phase 2 – CAD Product Development Following approval of the product architecture: Develop production-ready 3D CAD models Design all product components and assemblies Engineer hinges, latches, removable trays, divider systems, and modular storage pods Apply Design for Manufacturing (DFM) principles Optimize wall thickness, draft angles, ribs, parting lines, tolerances, and assembly features Prepare prototype-ready engineering files suitable for OEM review Preferred Experience Applicants should have experience in: Product Development Industrial Product Design Mechanical Engineering Injection-Molded Consumer Products Storage Systems Toolboxes Organizers Outdoor Products Design for Manufacturing (DFM) Product Prototyping Experience designing products that successfully reached production is highly preferred. Fishing industry experience is a bonus but not required. Deliverables Depending on the selected workflow, deliverables may include: Product architecture recommendations 3D CAD models Assembly models SolidWorks native files, IGES files. STEP files Native CAD files (SolidWorks or equivalent) Exploded assembly views Engineering drawings Manufacturing documentation DFM recommendations What We Are Looking For We are not looking for someone who simply converts sketches into CAD. We are looking for a long-term development partner who can: Think like a product engineer Improve product functionality Understand premium consumer products Balance aesthetics with manufacturability Collaborate throughout prototype development and production Successful completion of Phase 1 may lead to continued collaboration for prototype refinement, production engineering, and future products within the Vantexa range. When Applying, Please Include Examples of injection-molded consumer products you have developed Products that reached production Relevant portfolio Your typical product development workflow Experience with DFM and tooling considerations Software used (SolidWorks, Creo, Fusion 360, etc.)