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.