Manufacturing Tooling Engineer

This position will lead the design, development, and validation of complex mechanical tooling, fixtures, and automated systems. This role blends advanced CAD modeling, tooling and fixture design, and simulation-driven engineering to accelerate product development, improve manufacturability, and ensure robust, repeatable performance across production environments. Collaborates closely with cross-functional teams—manufacturing, R&D, quality, automation, and operations—to translate engineering requirements into practical, scalable solutions. Success in this role includes tooling designs that are robust, intuitive, and production-ready; simulation-driven decisions that reduce rework and accelerate development cycles; clear communication and documentation that elevate team efficiency; and a proactive approach to improving processes, standards, and engineering workflows.

Essential Functions:

CAD & Mechanical Design:

Develop detailed 3D models, assemblies, and drawings using CAD tools (NX preferred, SolidWorks, Inventor, Creo, or similar). Create tooling, fixtures, jigs, and custom mechanical components optimized for manufacturability and repeatability. Maintain revision control, design standards, and documentation best practices.

Tooling & Fixture Engineering:

Design production tooling for machining, assembly, testing, and automation processes. Conduct tolerance stack-ups, GD&T application, and DFM/DFA reviews. Partner with suppliers and internal machinists to ensure designs are feasible, cost-effective, and aligned with production capabilities.

Simulation & Analysis:

Perform metal flow simulations using tools such as EKK, MAGMASoft, ProCAST, FLOW-3D, or equivalent. Perform structural, thermal, motion, and kinematic simulations to validate designs before fabrication. Use FEA/CFD tools to optimize strength, stiffness, weight, and performance. Analyze failure modes and implement design improvements based on simulation results.

Cross-Functional Collaboration:

Work with manufacturing engineers to integrate tooling into production workflows. Support prototype builds, testing, and troubleshooting. Communicate design intent clearly to stakeholders through models, drawings, and technical reports.

Continuous Improvement:

Identify opportunities to automate workflows, reduce cycle times, and improve tooling reliability. Develop standard templates, libraries, and design guidelines to streamline future projects. Contribute to engineering process improvements and best practices.

Competencies:

1. Advanced CAD design and 3D modeling expertise. 2. Strong knowledge of tooling, fixture design, and manufacturing processes. 3. Simulation and analytical problem-solving skills. 4. Technical communication and documentation abilities. 5. Cross-functional collaboration and teamwork. 6. Continuous improvement mindset. 7. Attention to detail and quality orientation.

Required Skills and Qualifications:

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Mechatronics, or related field. 3-7+ years of experience in CAD design, tooling engineering, or mechanical simulations. Proficiency in 3D CAD software (NX preferred, SolidWorks, Inventor, Creo, or equivalent). Experience with FEA/CFD tools (ANSYS, Abaqus, SolidWorks Simulation, etc.). Strong understanding of GD&T, tolerance analysis, and mechanical design fundamentals. Hands-on experience with machining, fabrication, or prototyping environments. Strong organizational, problem-solving, and communication skills. Ability to work directly with engineers, manufacturing staff, and customers.

Preferred Qualifications:

Experience designing tooling for automation, robotics, or high-volume manufacturing. Knowledge of pneumatics, hydraulics, or motion control systems. Familiarity with PLM systems and version control workflows. Exposure to scripting or automation (VBA, Python, macros) to streamline engineering tasks. Experience with metal flow simulation tools (e.g., EKK, MAGMASoft, ProCAST, FLOW-3D, or equivalent). Candidate must be willing to work onsite (not remote) and be a U.S. Citizen or a Green Card Holder.