Tooling and Fixture Engineering Manager

We are seeking an experienced and innovative Tooling and Fixture Engineering Manager to lead the design, development, and maintenance of tooling and fixturing systems used in manufacturing and fabrication operations. This leadership role is responsible for ensuring that all tooling solutions meet production, safety, and quality standards while enabling efficient, cost-effective manufacturing processes. The ideal candidate has strong engineering fundamentals, hands-on tooling experience, and leadership skills to guide cross-functional teams.

Key Focus Areas:

1. Tooling & Fixture Design Oversight

• • Lead the design and development of jigs, fixtures, gauges, and tooling for fabrication, machining, welding, and assembly.

  • Ensure tooling meets ergonomics, safety, and performance requirements.

2. Project Management

• • Oversee tooling projects from concept through deployment, including cost estimation, scheduling, and vendor coordination.

  • Prioritize and allocate resources to support NPI (New Product Introduction), production support, and continuous improvement.

3. Process Integration

• • Collaborate with process, production, and design engineering teams to integrate tools and fixtures into manufacturing workflows.

  • Support DFM (Design for Manufacturability) initiatives and automation integration.

4. Standardization & Documentation

• • Develop and enforce tooling standards, documentation practices, and revision controls.

  • Maintain a library of standard tooling and design assets.

5. Team Leadership & Development

• • Lead and mentor a team of tooling engineers, CAD designers, and technicians.

  • Provide training and support to ensure skill development and cross-functional collaboration.

6. Tooling Maintenance & Lifecycle Management

• • Implement systems for tracking tooling usage, condition, and maintenance schedules.

  • Support repair and refurbishment activities to extend tooling life and maintain quality output.

Core Responsibilities:

• • Manage the full lifecycle of tooling and fixturing projects.

  • Drive innovation in tooling solutions to reduce setup time, improve quality, and enhance productivity.

  • Evaluate and select materials and manufacturing methods for tooling components.

  • Collaborate with suppliers and internal machine shops on build and modification of tooling.

  • Perform root cause analysis on tooling-related production issues and implement corrective actions.

  • Ensure compliance with health and safety regulations in all tooling activities.

  • Support cost-reduction initiatives through improved tooling design and reuse.

Required Qualifications:

• • Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or related field.

  • 8–10+ years of experience in tooling and fixture design in a manufacturing or fabrication setting.

  • 3+ years of experience in an engineering leadership or managerial role.

  • Proficiency in CAD software (SolidWorks, CATIA, AutoCAD, etc.).

  • Strong knowledge of manufacturing processes including machining, welding, sheet metal forming, and assembly.

  • Understanding of GD&T, tolerances, and metrology principles.

Preferred Qualifications:

• • Master’s degree or certifications (e.g., Six Sigma, PMP, CMfgE).

  • Experience in high-mix, low-volume or precision manufacturing environments.

  • Familiarity with FEA and simulation tools for fixture validation.

  • Knowledge of lean manufacturing principles and ergonomics.