Tooling Engineer III/Mold Designer III - G&W Electric Co
Bolingbrook, IL 60440
About the Job
Reporting to the Tooling Manager, this position will be responsible for the design and implementation of new tooling projects related to our molding process. The primary responsibility will be to design injection mold assemblies for Solid Die Epoxy Molds, Liquid Silicone Rubber Molds, Vacuum-casting, and more. The Tooling Engineer III role will have 10+ years of experience in a prior mold design & engineering role for thermoplastics, thermosets, elastomers, or a combination. This role requires organizational and project management skills to provide updates, set and meet timelines, and communication skills that can be presented to the broader team in cross-functional meetings and design reviews. In addition to design/engineering responsibilities, this position will require individuals to support operations with issues in the manufacturing facility. This position also requires individuals to source components and materials necessary for the assembly of their design projects.
Primary/Essential Responsibilities:
- Tooling Design: Lead the design process for manufacturing tools, fixtures, molds, and equipment using CAD software and other engineering tools. Ensure designs meet production requirements, quality standards, and cost targets.
- Prototype Development: Oversee the creation of prototypes for new tooling designs, conducting testing and analysis to validate functionality, performance, and durability.
- Process Optimization: Identify opportunities for process improvement and optimization through the development and implementation of innovative tooling solutions. Collaborate with production teams to streamline manufacturing processes and enhance productivity.
- Cost Management: Develop cost estimates for tooling projects and monitor expenses throughout the design and implementation phases. Seek cost-saving opportunities without compromising quality or performance.
- Technical Support: Provide technical support to manufacturing teams, troubleshooting tooling issues, and implementing corrective actions to minimize downtime and ensure smooth production operations.
- Documentation and Compliance: Maintain comprehensive documentation for all tooling designs, including specifications, drawings, and test reports. Ensure compliance with relevant industry standards, regulations, and safety guidelines.
- Supplier Management: Collaborate with external suppliers and vendors to source materials, components, and services required for tooling projects. Evaluate supplier performance and negotiate contracts to ensure quality, cost-effectiveness, and timely delivery.
- Team Leadership: Mentor and coach junior engineers and technicians, providing guidance and support in tooling design, development, and implementation.
Required Qualifications:
- Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related field.
- Proven experience (typically 10+ years) in tooling design and development within a manufacturing environment.
- Proficiency in CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD) and other engineering tools.
- Strong understanding of manufacturing processes, materials, and technologies.
- Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
- Effective communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate across departments and disciplines.
- Project management experience, including the ability to prioritize tasks, manage timelines, and allocate resources effectively.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Knowledge of industry-specific standards and regulations (e.g., ISO, ASME).
- Familiarity with Lean Manufacturing principles and methodologies.
- Experience with finite element analysis (FEA) and simulation tools.
- Willingness to travel occasionally for supplier visits, conferences, or customer meetings.
Physical Demands / Working Conditions:
- General Office Environment, PC use
- Light Lifting (occasional 25 lbs or less)
Proper PPE used in manufacturing facility.