The Manager – Stamping and Sheet Metal Process Engineering leads the development, validation, and continuous improvement of all stamping and sheet metal forming processes. This role ensures that components meet design specifications, production targets, and quality standards through robust engineering practices, tooling design, and process optimization. The role is also responsible for leading a team of process engineers and collaborating with tool design, production, and maintenance teams to deliver high-performance press operations.
Lead and manage the development and implementation of stamping and sheet metal forming processes for new and existing products.
Oversee die design reviews, formability simulations, tryout coordination, and production ramp-up activities.
Collaborate with product design, tooling, and quality teams to ensure manufacturability (DFM) and high-yield processes.
Manage technical evaluation and sourcing of stamping equipment, progressive and transfer dies, and automation solutions.
Lead root cause analysis of stamping-related defects such as wrinkles, cracks, springback, and dimensional issues.
Define and standardize process parameters for blanking, drawing, flanging, trimming, and piercing operations.
Drive cost reduction through material utilization, tool life improvement, and scrap minimization.
Ensure safety, compliance, and ergonomics are integrated into all stamping and sheet metal processes.
Support capacity planning, production layout, and new press line installations or upgrades.
Develop and mentor a high-performing team of process engineers and technicians.
Forming Process Development:
Define forming strategies, process sequences, and press selection for optimal part quality and throughput.
Conduct feasibility studies and simulate forming operations (e.g., AutoForm, DynaForm).
Tooling & Die Engineering:
Coordinate with tool & die teams on the design, tryout, modification, and maintenance of progressive, line, and transfer dies.
Approve die layouts and ensure tooling meets production robustness and service life targets.
Stamping Operations Support:
Provide hands-on support during press trials, line commissioning, and troubleshooting.
Analyze part defects and implement corrective actions through die adjustments, material changes, or process tuning.
Material & Equipment Optimization:
Work with materials engineers to validate new grades (AHSS, aluminum) and optimize blank dimensions.
Evaluate and integrate automation and sensor-based technologies for enhanced process control.
Continuous Improvement & Standardization:
Apply Lean Six Sigma principles to reduce waste, improve line OEE, and enhance first-pass yield.
Standardize best practices across stamping operations and lead technical training.
Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Manufacturing, or Industrial Engineering; Master’s preferred.
10+ years of experience in sheet metal forming, stamping process development, or tooling engineering in automotive or industrial sectors.
Expertise in press line operations, forming simulation tools, die design, and GD&T.
Strong knowledge of high-strength steels, aluminum stamping, and multi-stage forming techniques.
Proficiency in CAD software (CATIA, NX) and forming simulation tools (AutoForm, PAM-STAMP, etc.).
Demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional teams and manage complex technical projects.
Excellent problem-solving, communication, and leadership skills.