Tool Design Manufacturing Engineer

About the Role

The Tool Design Manufacturing Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and improving tooling, fixtures, jigs, and dies used in metal stamping, sheet metal fabrication, welding, and machining operations. This role supports production efficiency, safety, quality, and cost objectives by delivering robust, manufacturable tooling solutions. The position works closely with tool room, maintenance, production, quality, and costing teams to support new product introductions, continuous improvement initiatives, and optimized manufacturing processes within a precision metal fabrication environment.

Design tooling, fixtures, jigs, and dies using CAD software such as Solid Works, Logo Press, or AutoCAD to meet customer specifications and production requirements.

Develop detailed drawings and documentation for fabrication by the tool room.

Collaborate with production, maintenance, and tool room teams to implement tooling improvements that enhance safety, quality, and efficiency.

Support quoting and costing processes by providing tooling layouts and designs for new part evaluations.

Participate in internal and customer product design reviews, providing feedback on manufacturability and tooling requirements.

Design tooling for sheet metal punching, forming, fabricating, press brakes, welding fixtures, and CNC work holding applications.

Troubleshoot tooling issues on the shop floor and implement corrective actions to improve tool performance and longevity.

Oversee tooling modifications, repairs, and enhancements to extend tool life and reduce downtime.

Identify and implement continuous improvement initiatives focused on cost reduction, cycle time optimization, and process capability.

Design and implement manufacturing processes including production flow, machine operation methods, and equipment utilization strategies.

Develop and update work instructions and process documentation to ensure quality and operational consistency.

Maintain accurate tooling documentation, revision control, and engineering records in compliance with quality standards.

Bachelors degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related field, or equivalent hands on experience.

Three or more years of experience in tooling design within a manufacturing environment.

Strong proficiency in CAD software such as Solid Works, AutoCAD, Logo Press, or similar platforms.

Experience designing fixtures, jigs, dies, work holding solutions, and production tooling.

Solid understanding of metal stamping, sheet metal fabrication, machining, and welding processes.

Strong analytical and problem solving skills with the ability to resolve complex engineering challenges.

Ability to work cross functionally and communicate effectively with engineering teams and shop floor personnel.

Experience in precision machining or metal fabrication environments.

Familiarity with SPC, lean manufacturing, and continuous improvement methodologies.

Experience supporting ISO or quality management systems.

Hands on background in tool room machining or manufacturing operations.

Ability to work in a combined office and manufacturing floor environment and support production needs as required.