Mechanical Engineering

Tool Design Engineer job description

A Tool Design Engineer develops complex jigs, fixtures, and molds using CAD software. Learn how a Tool Design Engineer improves manufacturing precision today.

Published March 29, 2024Updated May 17, 20262142 likes

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Job brief

We are seeking a detail-oriented Tool Design Engineer to join our manufacturing engineering team and lead the development of our next generation of production tooling. In this role, you will own the end-to-end design lifecycle for custom jigs and fixtures that support our high-precision product lines. You will work alongside our CNC machinists and production staff to ensure our tooling designs meet rigorous quality standards while driving down cycle times. If you have a passion for mechanical innovation, precision, and solving complex manufacturing challenges, we want to hear from you.

Key highlights

Design and engineer custom jigs, fixtures, and molds using SolidWorks or Creo to support assembly and machining operations.
Perform rigorous FEA and kinematic simulations to validate tool performance, safety, and structural integrity before finalizing engineering designs.
Generate comprehensive 2D technical drawings, BOMs, and assembly documentation that adhere to ASME Y14.5 GD&T standards.
Implement continuous improvement initiatives by conducting root cause analysis on tooling wear patterns and process-related failures.

What is a Tool Design Engineer?

A Tool Design Engineer is a specialized mechanical engineer who focuses on the design, development, and validation of precision tooling, jigs, fixtures, and injection molds necessary for high-volume manufacturing. By applying advanced mechanical principles and GD&T standards, the Tool Design Engineer bridges the gap between raw product concepts and scalable production realities. Their expertise in material science and kinematics ensures that every custom component is engineered for durability, safety, and cycle-time optimization in modern manufacturing environments.

What does a Tool Design Engineer do?

A Tool Design Engineer translates product specifications into functional hardware, utilizing CAD platforms like SolidWorks or CATIA to draft complex tool assemblies and detailed BOMs. They perform stress analysis and simulation to predict wear and failure before manufacturing begins, while regularly collaborating with tool makers, machinists, and production managers to troubleshoot fitment issues on the shop floor. By documenting engineering changes and conducting root cause analysis on failed tooling, they ensure continuous process improvement and consistent quality output for complex mechanical systems.

Key responsibilities

Design and engineer custom jigs, fixtures, and molds using SolidWorks or Creo to support assembly and machining operations.
Perform rigorous FEA and kinematic simulations to validate tool performance, safety, and structural integrity before finalizing engineering designs.
Generate comprehensive 2D technical drawings, BOMs, and assembly documentation that adhere to ASME Y14.5 GD&T standards.
Collaborate with tool-room technicians and external suppliers to manage the fabrication and prototyping of new tooling components.
Implement continuous improvement initiatives by conducting root cause analysis on tooling wear patterns and process-related failures.
Optimize manufacturing workflows by identifying opportunities to automate manual tasks through innovative mechanical tool design solutions.
Review and approve vendor-provided designs for outsourced tooling, ensuring compliance with internal specifications and quality requirements.
Participate in cross-functional design reviews with manufacturing and product engineers to align tooling strategies with production requirements.

Requirements and skills

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related field with 3+ years of professional experience.
Advanced proficiency in 3D CAD modeling software such as SolidWorks, CATIA, or Siemens NX for complex assembly design.
Deep technical knowledge of GD&T (ASME Y14.5) standards and the ability to apply them to precision-engineered components.
Solid understanding of manufacturing processes, including CNC machining, metal fabrication, welding, and heat treatment methodologies.
Proven experience with FEA/CAE simulation tools like ANSYS or SolidWorks Simulation to validate high-stress mechanical designs.
Certification in Lean Manufacturing or Six Sigma Green Belt is highly preferred for driving continuous improvement projects.
Strong technical communication skills required to explain complex design decisions to shop floor technicians and management stakeholders.
Familiarity with ISO 9001 and IATF 16949 quality standards to ensure all tool designs meet industrial regulatory compliance.

FAQs

What does a Tool Design Engineer do on a daily basis?

On a daily basis, a Tool Design Engineer spends time drafting mechanical components in CAD, performing design reviews for new fixtures, and troubleshooting manufacturing issues on the production floor. They analyze performance data from existing tooling to suggest upgrades, coordinate with CNC machinists on fabrication details, and update technical documentation. Their work is central to ensuring that assembly lines remain efficient and that parts are produced with high precision.

What skills are required for a Tool Design Engineer?

A Tool Design Engineer requires strong proficiency in CAD software (like SolidWorks or CATIA), a deep understanding of GD&T, and knowledge of various manufacturing processes like machining and welding. Analytical skills for performing FEA simulations are critical, as is the ability to troubleshoot mechanical failures. Furthermore, they need excellent documentation skills and the ability to communicate technical designs clearly to both engineers and shop-floor personnel.

Who does a Tool Design Engineer work with regularly?

A Tool Design Engineer acts as a bridge between multiple departments, collaborating daily with production supervisors, CNC machinists, and tool-room technicians to ensure designs are manufacturable. They also frequently work with product development engineers to align fixture designs with new product requirements. Additionally, they often interact with external vendors and procurement teams to source high-quality materials and specialized tooling components.

How does a Tool Design Engineer impact company profitability?

A Tool Design Engineer directly impacts the bottom line by designing high-efficiency tooling that reduces cycle times, minimizes scrap rates, and decreases equipment downtime. By optimizing the lifespan of jigs and fixtures, they reduce recurring maintenance costs and capital expenditure on replacement parts. Their role in ensuring consistent product quality also helps the organization maintain its competitive advantage and meet stringent industry standards.