Job Description

Title : Lead Tooling Designer

Location : Near Wheeling, IL

Hire Type : Direct Hire

Compensation : $90,000 – $115,000/yr.

Must have Skill Set: Tool & Die Design oversight, CAD/CAM proficiency (Creo/SolidWorks), CNC Programming logic, Fixture/Gage Design.

This strategic leadership role is responsible for overseeing the design, fabrication, and maintenance of high-precision tooling, jigs, and fixtures within a fast-paced Tool Room environment. The position merges high-level technical tool design expertise with operational management, ensuring that all tooling solutions meet rigorous engineering specifications and production demands. The Lead Tool Designer will drive continuous improvement in tool life and performance while mentoring a team of machinists and technicians to achieve operational excellence and superior output quality.

Job Duties :

• Lead the Tool Room team in the conceptualization, design, and manufacture of specialized tooling, dies, and fixtures.
• Provide advanced technical expertise in tool design and troubleshooting; collaborate with engineering to solve complex manufacturing challenges through innovative tooling solutions.
• Oversee the translation of 3D models and CAD data into efficient CNC tool paths and manufacturing processes.
• Develop and manage daily production schedules for the Tool Room to ensure tool availability aligns with primary manufacturing timelines.
• Read and interpret complex blueprints, CAD models, and GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing) to ensure tool precision.
• Assign design and fabrication tasks based on production schedules, Kanban triggers, and critical equipment needs.
• Perform technical audits of tool quality, 5S standards, and TPM (Total Productive Maintenance) within the department.
• Coordinate with R&D and Production Engineering to optimize tool designs for ergonomics, safety, and long-term reliability.
• Maintain 99% or better On-Time Delivery (OTD) for new tool builds and critical repairs.
• Train and mentor staff on advanced technical skills, including CAM programming, precision measurement, and specialized job processes.
• Communicate technical constraints or resource needs to senior leadership to ensure project deadlines are met.

Qualifications :

• Associate degree or equivalent from a technical school; or 4–6 years of related experience in Tool Design or Tool & Die making.
• Strong technical background in CNC machining (Mills/Lathes), Brake Press tooling, Welding fixtures, and Laser cutting parameters.
• Mastery of blueprint reading, CAD/CAM software (Creo View preferred), and the ability to manipulate 3D models for tool design.
• Practical knowledge of CAM programming and the logic behind optimized tool paths and cutter selection.
• Advanced shop math skills, including trigonometry and geometry, specifically applied to tool geometry and part fitment.
• Demonstrated experience in capacity planning and mentoring junior toolmakers or technical leads.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, SharePoint, and ERP/MRP systems (Oracle experience a plus).
• Proven leadership ability with a focus on coaching, motivating, and developing a highly technical workforce.
• Excellent cross-functional collaboration skills, particularly between Engineering and Production departments.

Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information.

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