Tooling Engineer – Automotive Manufacturing

DirectPath Recruiting Services is partnering with a leading automotive manufacturer to identify an experienced Tooling Engineer to support new program launches, tooling development, engineering changes, and continuous improvement initiatives.

This position will play a key role in the sourcing, design, construction, tryout, PPAP, and launch of new tooling, fixtures, and equipment while working closely with Program Management, Manufacturing, Quality, Finance, Tool Room personnel, suppliers, and customers.

Key Responsibilities

Provide technical input and direction for the sourcing, design, construction, PPAP, and launch of new tools, fixtures, and equipment.
Support Tool Room personnel and outside vendors in troubleshooting issues related to tooling, production processes, and tool tryouts.
Plan, schedule, and execute engineering changes, tooling modifications, and cost-saving initiatives.
Coordinate tooling changes with Program Management, Manufacturing, Quality, and Finance to ensure timely tryouts and implementation.
Provide technical support throughout product development, tooling design, and new program launches.
Identify and implement new tooling technologies and processes to meet or exceed customer specifications.
Develop and maintain effective tooling suppliers and sourcing strategies for prototype and production programs.
Assist Program Managers with tooling quotes, supplier selection, cost estimates, and engineering changes.
Work with Production to implement Poka Yoke/error-proofing methods.
Partner with Quality Engineering to establish achievable tolerances and characteristics for SPC.
Maintain compliance with IATF standards, ISO 14001, OSHA, and company safety and environmental requirements.
Work with customers, suppliers, subcontractors, engineers, and internal teams to ensure successful tooling and program execution.
Travel as required to support customers, suppliers, tooling vendors, and program activities.
Perform additional engineering and tooling responsibilities as assigned by management.

Qualifications

Previous experience as a Tooling Engineer, Tool & Die Maker, Tool Room Supervisor, or related tooling position.
5+ years of Tooling Engineering experience preferred.
Experience in automotive manufacturing and stamping strongly preferred.
Tool & Die apprenticeship/certification or equivalent hands-on tooling experience preferred.
Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or related field preferred; equivalent experience will be considered.
Strong understanding of automotive tooling, dies, fixtures, presses, assembly equipment, and manufacturing processes.
Experience with PPAP, tool tryouts, engineering changes, product launches, and continuous improvement.
Strong supplier and vendor management skills.
Excellent communication, negotiation, problem-solving, and interpersonal skills.
Proficiency with CAD, CMM, spreadsheets, databases, and other engineering/manufacturing software.
Ability to work effectively with employees at all levels, including customers, suppliers, subcontractors, engineers, and manufacturing teams.