Tooling Design Engineer

Job Description

Job Description

Onsite 5 days in Berlin, CT

Compensation: $120K-$145K + fulltime benefits.

Tooling Engineer

Job Expectations
The Tooling Engineer designs, develops, validates, and optimizes precision tooling, dies, fixtures, gauges, and related manufacturing systems. This role provides technical leadership across the toolroom and cross-functional teams, driving tooling strategy, process capability, safety, quality, and continuous improvement initiatives that support high-volume production.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, build, modification, validation, and lifecycle management of dies, fixtures, gauges, and related tooling systems
• Diagnose complex tooling and process issues, implement root-cause corrective actions, and establish preventive maintenance and reliability programs to minimize downtime
• Interpret and apply engineering drawings, CAD models, GD&T, and technical specifications to define tooling requirements, manufacturing methods, and process parameters
• Prioritize and coordinate toolroom activities; mentor and support toolmakers, apprentices, and technicians while ensuring adherence to engineering standards
• Partner with Engineering, Quality, Production, and Launch teams on new product introductions, process capability improvements, tooling standardization, and quality system compliance
• Perform and oversee precision machining (manual and CNC), EDM, and related processes while enforcing rigorous safety and 5S/toolroom best practices
• Drive continuous improvement projects focused on tooling performance, cost reduction, lead-time reduction, and lean manufacturing principles
• Maintain accurate tooling documentation, BOMs, and change control records

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Tool Design, or equivalent technical degree; or Journeyman Tool & Die Maker certification combined with significant engineering experience
• 4+ years of progressive experience in tool & die, tooling design/engineering, or precision manufacturing environments, including demonstrated technical leadership
• Expert-level ability to read and interpret complex blueprints, apply GD&T, work with 3D CAD models, and utilize precision metrology equipment
• Hands-on experience with metal stamping, precision machining, mold-making, or related processes, plus strong analytical troubleshooting and cross-functional communication skills

Preferred Qualifications

• Proficiency with CAD/CAM software (e.g., SolidWorks, NX, Mastercam, or equivalent)
• Experience with CNC programming, EDM processes, and modern tooling technologies
• Demonstrated success supporting lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, or formal continuous improvement initiatives
• Familiarity with tooling simulation, finite element analysis (FEA), or process capability tools (SPC, Cpk, etc.)

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand for extended periods and work in a toolroom/manufacturing environment
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs occasionally
• Comfortable operating precision equipment and tools

Work Environment

• Manufacturing and toolroom setting with exposure to machinery, noise, and metalworking fluids
• Required use of personal protective equipment (PPE)