Tool Designer

TOOL DESIGNER

The Tool Designer is responsible for designing, detailing, and supporting cutting tools and related tooling used in the machining of die cast aluminum components. This role supports customer-driven programs and internal manufacturing requirements by translating customer concepts, manufacturing drawings, and 3D part data into accurate CAD models. The Tool Designer collaborates with internal engineering, production teams, and external tooling suppliers to optimize tool performance, cost, and life while ensuring compliance with company safety, quality, and environmental standards.

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES

• Design and detail cutting tools using CAD software (Inventor), including concept development and solid modeling based on customer drawings, manufacturing prints, and 3D part data.
• Support tooling selection, testing, and sampling in accordance with Comac procedures, including documentation of performance, cost, and PCN requirements.
• Collaborate with tooling suppliers to optimize tooling design, quality, cost, and tool life for high‑speed machining of die cast aluminum alloys.
• Review and support production tooling needs, including new programs, program changes, tooling updates, replacements, and reconditioning (re‑grinds).
• Inventory management thru tooling orders, confirmations, usage, and replacement requirements to support uninterrupted production.
• Analyze and report daily and weekly tooling usage and issues by department using Comac tooling summaries; review line‑level issues with the Engineering Manager.
• Train setup and maintenance personnel on tool presetters, vending machines, and associated vending software; assist with vending machine restocking as needed.
• Maintain compliance with all safety, environmental, and quality policies, including proper use of PPE and adherence to Gibbs 7‑S standards.
• Maintain regular attendance and support overtime or weekend work as required; perform other duties as assigned.

REQUIREMENTS

Education

• High School Diploma or GED
• Associate’s degree or equivalent from a two-year college or technical school preferred.

Experience

• Six months to one year of related experience in tooling design, machining, or manufacturing engineering.

Technical Skills

• Proficiency with CAD software for 2D and 3D design and solid modeling (AutoCAD and Inventor preferred).
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office applications.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, GD&T, and automotive manufacturing specifications.
• Practical problem solving
• Ability to apply mathematical concepts including geometry, trigonometry, ratios, percentages, and basic statistical principles to practical manufacturing applications.

Communication Skills

• Ability to read and interpret safety rules, operating instructions, and procedure manuals.
• Ability to prepare routine reports and documentation.
• Ability to communicate effectively with internal teams, suppliers, and customers.

Additional Requirements

• Willingness and ability to complete all required training identified in the training matrix.
• Ability to meet all physical and environmental requirements of the role.

Applicants must be authorized to work for an employer in the U.S.  We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment Visa at this time.