Job Description
Job Description
About the Role:
The Senior Tooling Engineer leads the design, development, and optimization of cold heading and cold forming processes to ensure consistent product quality, efficient manufacturing, and cost-effective production. This role manages tooling design, procurement, and life-cycle control while providing engineering support to improve manufacturing performance and reduce downtime. The position plays a key role in driving innovation, process improvement, and operational excellence across fastener and precision metal forming operations.
Responsibilities:
- Design, validate, and optimize cold heading and cold forming tooling for single and multi-die operations.
- Develop and maintain Methods of Manufacturing (MoMs), Bills of Materials (BOMs), and routings in ERP systems such as Epicor.
- Review part prints for manufacturability and recommend design or process improvements.
- Support quoting and cost estimation by analyzing tooling, production, and subcontract requirements.
- Create and update detailed engineering drawings using AutoCAD and SolidWorks according to engineering standards.
- Lead root cause analysis and corrective action plans for tooling and production-related issues.
- Improve tooling life, product quality, and process capability through redesign and process optimization.
- Manage Tool Room operations including tooling procurement, usage tracking, and tool life analysis.
- Implement systems for accurate tool control, ordering, and usage monitoring.
- Mentor and train engineers, technicians, and Tool Room staff to strengthen internal expertise.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to drive continuous improvement, equipment upgrades, and process standardization.
- Ensure all engineering practices comply with ISO 9001 and IATF 16949 standards.
Qualifications:
- Bachelors degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
- Minimum 5 years of experience in cold heading, cold forming, or precision fastener manufacturing.
- Proven experience in cold forming tooling design for single and multi-die headers.
- Strong proficiency with AutoCAD; SolidWorks experience preferred.
- Demonstrated ability to manage Tool Room operations, tooling procurement, and inventory control.
- Working knowledge of ERP systems such as Epicor for BOMs, routings, and tool tracking.
- In-depth understanding of material properties, heat treatment, coatings, and fastener standards including IFI and ISO.
- Strong analytical, problem-solving, and project management skills.
- Excellent communication, collaboration, and leadership capabilities.
Desired Qualifications:
- Experience with Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or other continuous improvement methodologies.
- Familiarity with automotive and aerospace fastener requirements.
- Proficiency in CNC machining, die maintenance, and precision tooling techniques.
- Advanced data analysis skills for process optimization and tool life tracking.
- Expertise in manufacturing cost reduction and efficiency improvement strategies.