Tool Design Engineer

Tool Design Engineers design fixtures, gauges and cutting tools from written tool design request (TDR). Operate Computer Aided Design (CAD) system to create solid model assemblies and fully dimensioned detail tool design drawings. Tool design skills must be utilized to properly dimension and tolerance fixtures, gauges and cutters so they produce product design parts to print by either direct or derived resultant dimensions. They need to evaluate new and existing manufacturing operations to fully understand and to optimize their designs. Tool Design Engineers do basic Process Engineering activities such as part BOM and routing, establish process documentation, debugging manufacturing processes, CNC/CAM Programming and other engineering duties as needed.

Pay Range:$47,280-$90,360

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Design original concept of complex fixtures, gauges and cutters.
• Modify existing fixtures, gauges and cutters.
• Use and understand ASME Y14.5M 1994-2009 impact on tool designs and tolerances.
• Incorporate standard purchased tooling components as needed into the tool designs.
• Design all types of gauging used within the industry.
• Design and/or modify fixtures for high volume production.
• Check tool designs by validating their accuracy and function.
• Make all hydraulic and/or pneumatic schematics as required.
• Must have a general knowledge of CNC machining capabilities.
• Must have knowledge of standard and special designed cutters.
• Understand machine layouts and at times do small machine design.
• Create enlarged comparator inspection screens.
• Distinguish the difference between high production and experimental tooling.
• Manage tool design work load and prioritize accordingly.
• Interact with NPD Process Engineers to optimize tool designs for manufacturing quality and costs.
• Interact with NPD Product Engineers to optimize tool designs for part fit and function.
• Evaluate existing designs so new designs are continually improved and enhanced.
• Use various file management software.
• Properly save the tool designs on the approved network filing area or systems.
• Interact, as needed, with S&W Tool Makers and vendor machine shops.
• Complete other CAD related requests.
• Use SAP to create new or modify BOM and routings.
• Responsible for basic Engineering tasks for accuracy and completion timeline.
• Other duties may be assigned.

LEVEL II S&W Job Code: RDTEP

Designs a wide variety of tools consistent with standard tool configuration, including cutting and forming tools. Works with engineering to identify problems with performance or tool life and recommends solutions or enhancements. May require a bachelor's degree in area of specialty and 2-4 years of experience in the field or in a related area. Familiar with standard concepts, practices, and procedures within a particular field. Relies on limited experience and judgment to plan and accomplish goals. Performs a variety of tasks. Works under general supervision. A certain degree of creativity and latitude is required. Typically reports to a supervisor or manager.

• S&W Job Level Qualifications:
• 15 Years or more experience preferred making drawings using CAD.
• Create Tool Design drawings under minimal supervision and guidance.
• High Level Fixture, Gage and Cutter design.
• Peer Drafting and Tool Design Checking responsibilities.
• Basic Process Engineering responsibilities:
• Produce Production Process Documents.
• Assist in the manufacture of Engineering Pilot Lots (EPL).
• Responsible to fully dimensioned process drawings.
• Basic level CNC code creation and debug.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Experience, Competencies and Education

• Associates in Engineering Degree or equivalent.
• Drawing background by formal education or equivalent.
• Computer Aided Design (CAD) experience with a major system. SolidWorks preferred.
• Language Skills
• Good command of the English language demonstrating excellent verbal and written communication skills.

TRAINING REQUIREMENTS:

• Complete all necessary training as required by assigned department and position.
• Participate in and follow all company initiatives.
• Participate in continuous improvement projects (Kaizen, Lean, 5S, etc.)

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

• Works in an office environment
• Able to sit and work at a computer keyboard for extended periods of time
• Able to lift and move up to 25 pounds occasionally.
• Able to stand at production machine to debug CNC program and run parts.

PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT:

• Safety glasses with side shields when on factory floor.
• The use of additional personal protective equipment (PPE) may be required when a job task(s) is being completed in or around your assigned department or in another department. This includes safety eyewear, hearing protection, and safety footwear.
• All employees are required to apply ergonomic correctness to all job tasks.
• May be required depending on position:
• Annual vision update in Medical Department.
• Involvement in the hearing conservation program.
• Involvement in the lead surveillance program.
• Wearing of safety certified shoes/boots.
• Participation in the stretching program.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

• Normal office environment conditions.
• Production environment.

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Revised 9/17/2026