Full Time Print Pattern Design Jobs in Houston, TX

POSITION SUMMARY

The Die Design Engineer will be responsible for the complete design lifecycle of forging tooling — from initial part feasibility and billet sizing through die design, drawing release, die tryout support, and production validation. This role requires a strong grasp of closed die forging metallurgy, metal flow, and die mechanics, combined with proficiency in 3D CAD modeling. The ideal candidate is equally comfortable at the computer and on the shop floor.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Die Design & Tooling Development

• Design forging dies, blocker dies, finisher dies, trim dies, and associated tooling for closed die forging operations using 3D CAD software (SolidWorks or CATIA preferred)

• Develop complete tooling packages including die assemblies, inserts, punches, trim tooling, fixtures, and gauges — from concept through production-ready drawings

• Perform billet sizing calculations, flash land and gutter design, draft angle specification, and parting line development for new forging programs

• Select appropriate die steel grades (H13, H21, or similar hot work tool steels) based on material, tonnage, production volume, and complexity of the forging

• Design tooling for optimal metal flow, fill, and die life — balancing quality, cost, and press capacity requirements

• Utilize forging simulation software (DEFORM or similar) to validate die designs and predict metal flow, defect risk, and load requirements prior to cutting steel

New Program Launch & Customer Interface

• Review customer part prints and 3D models for forging feasibility — assess draft, parting line, tolerances, and material selection relative to closed die forging process capabilities

• Develop forging process plans for new programs including number of operations, sequence, and equipment selection

• Prepare tooling cost estimates and die design schedules to support quoting and program planning activities

• Participate in design reviews with customers, sales, and manufacturing engineering to align tooling design with customer requirements

Die Room & Production Support

• Release tooling drawings and specifications to the die room — provide technical support during die machining, EDM, and heat treat

• Support die tryouts on the press — observe and document results, identify and resolve metal fill, flash, or dimensional issues

• Analyze die wear patterns and failures; recommend design modifications to improve die life, quality, and process stability

• Maintain die drawing and revision control records; manage engineering change orders for tooling modifications

• Collaborate with maintenance, production, and quality teams to resolve tooling-related issues in a timely manner

Continuous Improvement

• Identify opportunities to standardize tooling components, reduce die costs, and improve design efficiency across the product portfolio

• Apply lessons learned from production and die life data to future tooling designs

• Support implementation of new design tools, simulation software, and CAD standards across the engineering team

QUALIFICATIONS

Required

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related technical field

• 3+ years of die design experience in a closed die forging, stamping, or precision metal forming environment

• Proficiency in 3D CAD — SolidWorks or CATIA strongly preferred; AutoCAD experience a plus

• Working knowledge of closed die forging processes including billet sizing, metal flow, draft design, flash design, and die steel selection

• Ability to read and interpret complex engineering drawings, GD&T, and customer specifications

• Hands-on troubleshooting mentality — comfortable working on the shop floor alongside die room and production personnel

Preferred

• Experience with forging process simulation software (DEFORM, QForm, or similar)

• Knowledge of hot work tool steels (H13, H21) and heat treatment of forging dies

• Exposure to automotive OEM customer quality requirements and APQP/PPAP processes

• Experience with EDM, CNC die machining, or die room operations

• Familiarity with Lean manufacturing and continuous improvement principles