Design Engineer - Tooling

Position: Design Engineer - Tooling (Permanent)
Location: Warwickshire

Design Engineer
- Tooling

Reporting to:
Manufacturing & Operations Manager
Department:
Manufacturing / Tooling

About the Role

We are seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Design Engineer to join our Manufacturing team. This role is responsible for the design, development, and continuous improvement of new and existing tooling to support both prototyping and mass production. The successful candidate will work cross-functionally with engineering, production, quality, tool room personnel, suppliers, and customers to deliver cost-effective, high-quality tooling solutions.

Key Responsibilities

Design & Development

Design and develop specialized tools, jigs, and fixtures for manufacturing processes using CAD software (e.g., Solid Works, AutoCAD).
Create detailed 2D drawings, 3D models, layouts, and technical specifications.
Design tooling solutions for both prototype and production environments.
Review technical data and apply engineering principles to improve tooling efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance quality.
Develop prototypes, conduct testing, and implement design improvements based on performance feedback.
Project & Production Support

Manage tooling projects from concept through to first production run, ensuring adherence to schedules and budgets.
Coordinate with tool room staff, shop floor personnel, and other departments to meet production deadlines.
Assist in troubleshooting manufacturing issues and provide technical production support.
Manage procurement and inventory of tooling and related equipment.
Liaise with external vendors and customers to ensure quality, cost-effectiveness, and timely delivery.
Quality & Compliance

Assist in maintaining and updating QMS/EMS systems to meet ISO
9001, IATF
16949, AS9100, and ISO
14001 requirements.
Develop and implement quality control measures for tooling processes.
Ensure compliance with company policies, PPE requirements, and management systems.
Continuous Improvement & Development

Collect and record relevant project and production data.
Participate in continuous improvement initiatives.
Continue professional development in line with departmental skills matrix and personal development plans.
Stay updated with industry trends, advancements in tool design, and new materials/processes.
Qualifications & Experience

Degree or Diploma in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
Strong knowledge of engineering drawings and drafting standards.
Proficiency in CAD software (Solid Works, AutoCAD; CATIA advantageous).
Experience in tooling design within a manufacturing environment preferred.
Key Competencies

Expertise in 3D modelling, drafting techniques, and interpretation of engineering drawings.
Strong understanding of Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing (GD&T).
Knowledge of manufacturing processes such as injection molding, stamping, forging, and other tooling development methods.
Solid understanding of material properties and their application in tooling.
Familiarity with simulation software for tool performance analysis (advantageous).
Knowledge of APQP and relevant departmental procedures.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office.
Excellent time management and organizational skills.
Strong communication and cross-functional collaboration abilities.
Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

Reduction in customer complaints
Customer satisfaction levels
On-Time In-Full (OTIF) performance
Cost of Non-Quality (CNQ)
Effectiveness of QMS/EMS systems
Training effectiveness

What We Offer

Opportunity to work in a dynamic manufacturing environment
Exposure to innovative tooling projects
Professional growth and continuous development
Collaborative and supportive team culture