Tooling Engineer

Summary

The Tooling Engineer is responsible for directing and supporting tooling programs from early concept and prototyping through final production launch and ongoing application support. This role requires deep technical expertise in die design, build, and maintenance, with a strong focus on stamped components.

Reporting to the Tooling Manager, this position works closely with internal teams, suppliers, and international tool shops to ensure tooling programs meet technical, quality, timing, and cost objectives across multiple concurrent programs.

• Tooling Program Leadership
  • Lead and support tooling programs from prototype development through production release and ongoing application
  • Oversee tool design, build, validation, buy-off, and launch activities
  • Maintain ownership of multiple die sets simultaneously across their full lifecycle
  • Ensure tooling programs are executed on the most economical and technically sound basis
• Technical Oversight & Problem Solving
  • Direct prototype development and obtain process and design approvals
  • Facilitate in-die buy-offs and production readiness reviews
  • Analyze and troubleshoot tooling, assemblies, and stamped components
  • Support production ramp-up and resolve tooling-related quality or performance issues
• Supplier & Cross-Functional Coordination
  • Maintain ongoing follow-up with tool shops and suppliers
  • Coordinate tooling activities with manufacturing, quality, and engineering teams
  • Evaluate tooling quality and performance against requirements
• Quality & Process
  • Apply APQP and PPAP principles throughout tooling programs
  • Interpret and apply GD&T requirements to tooling and stamped parts
  • Monitor tooling quality and support corrective actions as needed
• Travel Requirements
  • Extended international travel in defined rotations
  • Approximately 10–12 weeks per year, typically in 2–3 blocks of up to 5 consecutive weeks
  • Current travel includes China and South Korea, with occasional U.S. site visits

• 15+ years of tooling experience, with deep expertise in die design, build, and maintenance
• Stamping experience is required
• Proven experience managing dies from initial design through final production
• Ability to manage multiple tooling programs concurrently
• Strong hands-on knowledge of tool building and tool repair

• Tool & Die apprenticeship
• Engineering degree preferred

• Working knowledge of APQP, PPAP, and GD&T
• Basic proficiency with AutoCAD, CATIA, and/or Pro-E
• Strong computer skills, including Microsoft Office and Project

• Clear and effective communication skills
• Strong planning, scheduling, and organizational abilities
• Collaborative working style with a hands-on, technically driven mindset

Expert Connections is a boutique recruiting firm specializing in leadership and technical placements in manufacturing, automotive and automation industries. We partner closely with clients and candidates to deliver a high-touch, insight-driven search experience rooted in deep industry knowledge.