Tooling Engineer

As a Plastics Tooling Engineer, you will design, develop, and optimize tooling solutions that support the production of high-quality plastic components. Working in a collaborative, onsite environment, you will partner closely with cross-functional teams to improve injection molding processes, enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and support safe, reliable operations. Success in this role requires strong blueprint-reading skills, attention to detail, and a proactive approach to problem-solving.

Your contributions will have a direct impact on product quality, manufacturing performance, and continuous improvement throughout the operation.

• Design and develop tooling solutions for plastic parts production, considering factors such as material properties, part design, and production requirements.
• Collaborate with engineering, manufacturing, R&D, NPD, and quality teams to ensure tooling meets project specifications and quality standards.
• Optimize existing tooling designs through continuous improvement initiatives and engineering changes to enhance efficiency, performance, and cost-effectiveness.
• Drive improvements to existing tools by implementing engineering changes that increase operational efficiency, improve performance, and reduce costs.
• Conduct tests and evaluations to validate tooling performance and identify areas for improvement.
• Provide technical support and expertise to troubleshoot tooling issues during production.
• Stay current on industry trends and advancements in plastics tooling technology to drive continuous improvement.
• Coordinate with outsourced tool shops on mold design, fabrication, and testing to support new product launches and ongoing production needs.

• CAD Proficiency:
  Strong experience with CAD software such as Solid Works and AutoCAD for designing tools, molds, and fixtures.
• Technical & Manufacturing Knowledge:
  Ability to read and interpret blueprints and technical drawings, with knowledge of injection molding, CNC machining, casting, and related manufacturing processes.
• Material Expertise:
  Understanding of tooling materials, including steel, aluminum, and plastics, and their performance in various manufacturing applications.
• Problem-Solving & Analytical
  
  Skills:
  
  Ability to analyze complex technical challenges and develop effective, practical solutions.
• Attention to Detail:
  Thorough approach to identifying and resolving design, material, and process issues before they impact production.
• Demonstrated passion for developing and mentoring employees, particularly those early in their skilled trades careers, with a strong focus on coaching and supporting direct reports.
• Project & Time Management:
  Demonstrated ability to prioritize work, manage multiple projects, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, Plastics Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years’ experience in tooling design and development, specifically in plastics manufacturing.
• Proficiency in CATIA software for designing tooling and molds.
• Strong knowledge of injection molding processes and tooling materials.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
• Effective communication skills to collaborate with internal teams and external vendors.

• 10-20% travel may be required to support other company locations, vendors, and suppliers, including occasional international travel.