Job Store Professional is seeking an experienced Senior Tooling Engineer in the plastics industry! This is a permanent direct hire opportunity for the right candidate. Join an innovative manufacturer with solutions for clients across multiple industries!

Salary Range: $110-125,000 Annually

Position Overview:

We are searching for a skilled tooling engineer to join our manufacturing team. The tooling engineer’s responsibilities include the design, development, and maintenance of injection molding, thermoforming, and extrusion tooling used in the manufacturing process. This role requires a strong understanding of injection molding principles, thermoforming principles, and extrusion principles, along with tooling design, and project management skills. The engineer collaborates with cross-functional teams to ensure the successful implementation of new tooling and the optimization of existing tools.   Sr. Tooling Engineer will lead a small team of Tooling Shop Supervisors.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Tooling Design and Development:

   - Design and develop molds/dies and related tooling components, considering factors such as part design, material properties, and manufacturing requirements.

   - Utilize computer-aided design (CAD) software to create 2D and 3D models, perform simulations, and generate engineering drawings.

   - Conduct feasibility studies and design reviews to assess tooling concepts, identify potential issues, and propose appropriate solutions.

   - Collaborate with internal teams and external suppliers to ensure tooling designs meet project requirements, quality standards, and cost targets.

2. Tooling Optimization and Maintenance:

   - Perform regular inspections and evaluations of existing tooling to identify areas for improvement, such as cycle time reduction, defect prevention, and increased productivity.

   - Troubleshoot tooling-related issues, analyze root causes, and implement corrective actions to minimize downtime and optimize production efficiency.

   - Develop and implement preventive maintenance programs for injection molds and tooling components, including cleaning, lubrication, and repair activities.

   - Collaborate with production and maintenance teams to provide technical support and training related to tooling operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

3. Project Management:

   - Lead tooling projects from concept to completion, ensuring adherence to project timelines, budgets, and quality standards.

   - Coordinate with internal stakeholders, including product designers, manufacturing engineers, and quality assurance, to define project requirements and specifications.

   - Evaluate and select external suppliers for tooling fabrication, manage the procurement process, and oversee tooling trials and validation activities.

   - Monitor project progress, identify potential risks or delays, and implement contingency plans to ensure timely completion of tooling projects.

4. Continuous Improvement:

   - Stay updated on the latest advancements in injection molding technology, tooling materials, and manufacturing processes.

   - Identify opportunities for process optimization, cost reduction, and quality improvement through the application of new techniques or tooling innovations.

   - Participate in cross-functional teams or committees focused on process improvement initiatives and contribute expertise in tooling design and engineering.

5.  Team Management:

 - Lead / Mentor and Evaluate a small team of Tool Room Supervisors who are involved with the production of new molds and dies, repair existing tooling, perform engineering changes, and preventative maintenance.

Qualifications and Skills:

- Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related field.

- Solid knowledge and experience in injection molding tooling design and development.

- Proficiency in CAD software, such as SolidWorks, AutoCAD, or similar tools.

- Strong understanding of injection molding principles, including part design considerations, material properties, and processing parameters.

- Familiarity with various mold types, such as hot runners, multi-cavity molds, and complex mold geometries.

- Knowledge of tooling materials, surface finishes, and heat treatment processes.

- Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills, with the ability to troubleshoot tooling-related issues effectively.

- Project management skills, including the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet deadlines.

- Strong communication and collaboration skills to work effectively with cross-functional teams and external suppliers.

- Attention to detail, with a focus on quality and continuous improvement.

- Experience with Lean manufacturing principles and practices is a plus.