Tooling Engineer

Reporting Structure:

This position reports to the Corporate Tooling & Process Manager and does not have direct reports. The role collaborates cross-functionally with Program Launch, Product Engineering, Development Engineering, Quality, Plant Operations, Sales, Customers, and external Suppliers.

Position Summary:

The Corporate Tooling Engineer is responsible for leading the end-to-end development and implementation of production tooling, equipment, and fixtures across all programs. This role ensures designs are cost-effective, manufacturable, and delivered on time to support new launches, production stability, and continuous improvement initiatives. The position plays a critical role in supplier management, capital planning, and standardization of tooling practices across the organization.

Major Duties and Responsibilities include:

Lead tooling and equipment development from concept through design, fabrication, validation, and production launch.

Manage supplier relationships to ensure performance in cost, quality, and delivery, while building long-term, value-driven partnerships.

Evaluate and approve tooling designs, manufacturing processes, and automation logic to meet production rate, quality, and efficiency targets.

Develop and maintain standardized tooling and engineering practices aligned with organizational and ISO requirements.

Drive cost optimization through design efficiency, use of standard components, and documentation of cost drivers for continuous improvement.

Oversee engineering changes, design revisions, and documentation control for all tooling and equipment.

Coordinate tooling builds, validation activities, and final customer or plant acceptance.

Analyze and communicate equipment capacity, cycle time, and overall equipment effectiveness (OEE) relative to program volumes.

Manage tooling budgets, track expenditures, and report performance against financial targets.

Support new business development by providing tooling cost estimates and input for capital investment decisions.

Process purchase requisitions, approve supplier payments, and coordinate equipment logistics to manufacturing facilities.

Collaborate with plant teams to support production readiness, issue resolution, and continuous improvement efforts.

Travel as required to supplier and manufacturing locations for equipment reviews, validation, and program launches.

Education:

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or equivalent hands-on experience in a fast-paced manufacturing or engineering environment

Professional Qualifications:

Minimum 2+ years of experience in tooling, manufacturing, or process engineering.

Proficiency in CAD software such as SolidWorks, CATIA, or AutoCAD.

Working knowledge of manufacturing processes and automation systems (including PLC/ladder logic preferred).

Strong communication skills with the ability to work across technical and non-technical teams.

Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Outlook, Teams, PowerPoint).

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and Attributes:

Strong project management and organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple programs simultaneously.

Analytical mindset with experience in cost evaluation and problem-solving.

Ability to read and interpret 2D drawings, 3D models, and GD&T.

Experience with manufacturing processes such as injection molding, foam processing, sewing, or vacuum forming is a plus.

Self-directed with the ability to work independently and drive results.

Team-oriented leader who supports knowledge sharing and continuous improvement.

Ability to clearly define objectives, communicate technical concepts, and align teams to execution.