Tooling Engineer Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the world of manufacturing and production, the significance of tooling engineers has never been greater.

As technology evolves, the demand for skilled professionals who can design, develop, and maintain our tooling systems grows ever stronger.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a tooling engineer?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker wanting to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager aiming to draft the perfect job description,
• Or simply curious about the inner workings of tooling engineering,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable tooling engineer job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Tooling Engineer Duties and Responsibilities

Tooling Engineers are involved in the design, development, implementation, and maintenance of tools, dies, molds, jigs, and fixtures for manufacturing processes.

They work closely with production and product design teams to ensure that the tooling is efficient, cost-effective, and meets the quality standards.

Here are the duties and responsibilities of a Tooling Engineer:

• Evaluate and interpret specifications and blueprints to understand project requirements
• Design, develop and test tools, dies, molds, jigs, and fixtures using CAD software
• Recommend materials for tool production based on durability, cost, and function
• Analyze and improve upon current tooling methods to increase efficiency and reduce cost
• Work closely with production and design teams to ensure tools are functional and yield high-quality products
• Coordinate with tool manufacturers and vendors for tool procurement
• Perform regular maintenance and repair on tools to ensure longevity and functionality
• Document tooling processes, modifications and specifications for future reference
• Adhere to safety regulations and standards while designing and maintaining tools
• Train staff on correct use of tooling equipment and safety procedures

 

Tooling Engineer Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a detail-oriented and innovative Tooling Engineer to join our team.

Your duties will include designing, developing, and testing tools, managing the tooling process from conception to completion, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to ensure tools are in line with company and industry standards.

The ideal candidate should have excellent problem-solving skills, thorough knowledge of tool design and fabrication, and the ability to manage projects efficiently.

 

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and test all aspects of mechanical components, equipment, and machinery.
• Apply knowledge of engineering principles to design products such as instruments, controls, robots, machines, etc.
• Plan and lead the fabrication of test control apparatus and equipment, and the development of methods and procedures for testing products or systems.
• Coordinate and direct projects, making detailed plans to accomplish goals and directing the integration of technical activities.
• Review and evaluate designs and project activities for compliance with engineering principles, company standards, customer contract requirements, and related specifications.
• Evaluate and approve design changes, specifications, and drawing releases.
• Present and explain proposals, reports, and findings to clients.
• Analyze and solve complex tooling issues

 

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or a related field.
• Proven experience as a Tooling Engineer or similar role.
• Excellent project management skills.
• Proficient with CAD software.
• Strong knowledge of metal properties and manufacturing processes.
• Excellent problem-solving abilities.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

 

Benefits

• 401(k) plan
• Comprehensive health insurance
• Dental and vision insurance
• Retirement plan
• Flexible work schedule
• Continuing education opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Tooling Engineer
• Work Environment: This role typically works in a manufacturing setting. Occasional travel may be required for site visits or client meetings.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Engineering Manager.
• Salary: Salary is commensurate with experience and qualifications, as well as market and business factors.
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and celebrate diversity. We do not discriminate based on race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your qualifications and experiences to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Tooling Engineer Do?

Tooling Engineers are typically employed in manufacturing sectors, such as automotive, aerospace, and consumer goods.

They can also work as consultants or contractors for manufacturing firms.

They are primarily responsible for the design, development, and implementation of tools, fixtures, and equipment used in the production process.

They collaborate with product designers and process engineers to ensure that the tools created are suitable for the manufacturing process and meet quality standards.

These professionals often perform feasibility studies to assess whether the proposed tooling designs can be integrated into the existing manufacturing system.

They are also responsible for improving the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of tooling systems.

In addition, they troubleshoot problems that may arise during the production process, performing necessary adjustments or repairs to the tools and equipment.

They also often oversee the installation of new machinery and ensure its alignment with the production process.

Training staff on how to use new tools and equipment safely and efficiently is also a key part of their role.

Tooling Engineers have to stay updated with the latest advancements in technology to improve existing systems and develop innovative tooling solutions.

They may also be involved in quality control, ensuring that the tools and equipment used in the production process are operating at optimal levels and complying with safety and environmental regulations.

 

Tooling Engineer Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Tooling Engineer should have the skills and qualifications that align with the job requirements, such as:

• Technical knowledge and skill in tool design, fabrication, and maintenance to ensure the production of high-quality products.
• Proficiency in computer-aided design (CAD) software and other tooling design software to create precise and efficient tool designs.
• Excellent problem-solving abilities to identify, analyze, and resolve issues that may arise in the tooling process.
• Strong understanding of manufacturing processes, materials, and production equipment to ensure the development of effective tools.
• Exceptional attention to detail to detect any flaws in the design and manufacturing of tools.
• Good communication skills to work effectively with team members, share information, and explain tool designs and modifications.
• Project management skills to oversee the tooling process from design to production, ensuring that projects are completed on time and within budget.
• Knowledge of safety standards and regulations in the tooling industry to ensure the safety of workers and the quality of products.

 

Tooling Engineer Experience Requirements

Tooling Engineers generally require a bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering or a related field.

However, experience is a crucial component in this profession.

Entry-level candidates may have 1 to 2 years of experience in the manufacturing sector, likely through internships or part-time roles in mechanical or industrial engineering.

These professionals can also gain beneficial on-the-job experience in roles such as Mechanical Engineer, Industrial Designer, Quality Control Analyst, or other roles closely related to the manufacturing process.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience often develop their technical skills and knowledge in entry-level Tooling Engineer roles.

This experience might involve designing, developing, testing, and implementing tools, fixtures, and equipment used in manufacturing processes.

Those with more than 5 years of experience may have some project management or leadership experience in their background.

These individuals are often ready for a managerial or team-lead position, supervising a team of engineers and technicians.

Some positions might require special expertise or familiarity with specific tooling systems or manufacturing processes, and as such, may require additional years of experience or specialized training.

 

Tooling Engineer Education and Training Requirements

Tooling Engineers typically need a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, industrial engineering, or a related field.

This academic program trains engineers in essential concepts such as materials science, engineering technology, and manufacturing processes.

The curriculum typically includes theoretical and practical coursework, leading to a comprehensive understanding of the role.

Some roles may require a Tooling Engineer to hold a master’s degree, particularly in roles that demand specialized knowledge or are in specific industries.

This advanced degree often deepens an engineer’s understanding of manufacturing systems, automation, and design principles.

Tooling Engineers also need a strong foundation in CAD/CAM software, and a familiarity with specific tooling and manufacturing processes.

They may need to have specific certifications in different software or manufacturing methodologies, depending on the requirements of the employer.

Though not always required, many Tooling Engineers pursue additional training and certifications to stay updated with the latest industry trends and technologies.

This continued learning can indicate a potential for leadership and a commitment to maintaining current skills.

In addition, many employers prefer candidates who have gained practical experience through internships, cooperative education, or work experience in the industry.

 

Tooling Engineer Salary Expectations

A Tooling Engineer can expect to earn an average salary of $85,000 (USD) per year.

This amount can fluctuate based on various factors such as the individual’s level of experience, educational background, and the location of the job.

Furthermore, the size and industry of the employing company can also significantly impact the salary.

 

Tooling Engineer Job Description FAQs

What skills does a tooling engineer need?

A tooling engineer should be skilled in using computer-aided design (CAD) software and other engineering tools.

They also need to have strong problem-solving skills to design and modify tools, as well as excellent attention to detail to identify potential issues in tooling processes.

Additionally, good communication and team collaboration skills are crucial for coordinating with other engineers and technicians.

 

Do tooling engineers need a degree?

Most tooling engineer positions require at least a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering or a related field.

Some employers might prefer candidates with a master’s degree or significant work experience.

In addition to formal education, tooling engineers also need to have a good understanding of manufacturing processes, materials, and engineering software tools.

 

What should you look for in a tooling engineer’s resume?

Look for a degree in mechanical engineering or a similar field, as well as experience with CAD software and other engineering tools.

Familiarity with manufacturing processes and materials is also important.

Any additional certifications, such as Certified Manufacturing Engineer (CMfgE), can be a plus.

The resume should also highlight the candidate’s problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and ability to work in a team.

 

What qualities make a good tooling engineer?

A good tooling engineer has strong problem-solving skills to identify and fix issues in the tooling process.

They have excellent attention to detail and are able to work efficiently under pressure.

Good tooling engineers are also team players, able to collaborate with other engineers and technicians to meet project goals.

They are also consistently up-to-date with the latest engineering software and techniques.

 

What is the job outlook for tooling engineers?

The demand for tooling engineers is expected to grow as manufacturing processes become more complex and require more advanced tools.

Tooling engineers play a critical role in improving the efficiency of these processes, which makes them valuable in various industries such as automotive, aerospace, and electronics manufacturing.

Opportunities for career advancement are plentiful, especially for those who continue their education or gain specialized certifications.

 

Conclusion

And there we have it.

Today, we’ve delved into the depths of what it truly signifies to be a tooling engineer.

Surprise, surprise!

It’s not just about creating tools.

It’s about forging the industrial future, one precise tool at a time.

Equipped with our foolproof tooling engineer job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to make your mark.

But why draw the line there?

Explore further with our job description generator. It’s your next stop to crafting meticulous job listings or perfecting your resume to the tiniest detail.

Remember:

Every tool you engineer is a part of the broader landscape.

Let’s shape that future. Together.

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