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Senior Tool Designer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Open to an early-mid career or a senior-level designer. Tasks and Responsibilities * Designs new tooling per Trelleborg standard practices * Leads tool design review meetings * Designs tool rework as ...

The Senior Durable Tooling Designer plays a key role in supporting the design and manufacturing of ... Support tool management software deployment and integration at assigned MC&O sites * Review designs ...

Tool Designer (Onsite)

Middletown, CT · On-site

$86K - $165K/yr

The Senior Durable Tooling Designer plays a key role in supporting the design and manufacturing of ... Support tool management software deployment and integration at assigned MC&O sites * Review designs ...

Prospect's Tool Designer is responsible for the completion of designs based on any flowed down and ... Complete the design following the instructions/direction from VP of Eng, Senior Designer, and/or ...

Apply Early

The Senior Durable Tooling Designer plays a key role in supporting the design and manufacturing of ... Support tool management software deployment and integration at assigned MC&O sites * Review designs ...

Senior Toolmaker In this job you will be responsible for designing, fabricating, and maintaining ... Tool Design and Development: * Create detailed design specifications for new tools, jigs, fixtures ...

Apply Early

Tooling Designer II

Aiken, SC · On-site

$72K - $122K/yr

Work under the guidance of Senior Tool Design Specialists to enhance knowledge and skills in designing effective tooling and fixtures. * Produce 3D CAD models and 2D technical drawing packages from ...

$32 - $39/hr

Senior Toolmaker In this job you will be responsible for designing, fabricating, and maintaining ... Tool Design and Development: * Create detailed design specifications for new tools, jigs, fixtures ...

Work under the guidance of Senior Tool Design Specialists to enhance knowledge and skills in designing effective tooling and fixtures. * Produce 3D CAD models and 2D technical drawing packages from ...

Senior Tool Maker

Bolingbrook, IL · On-site

$32 - $39/hr

Senior Toolmaker In this job you will be responsible for designing, fabricating, and maintaining ... Tool Design and Development: * Create detailed design specifications for new tools, jigs, fixtures ...

$165K/yr

The Senior Durable Tooling Designer plays a key role in supporting the design and manufacturing of ... Support tool management software deployment and integration at assigned MC&O sites * Review designs ...

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Senior Tool Designer information

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$23

$38

$51

How much do senior tool designer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for senior tool designer in the United States is $38.10, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $31.25 and $44.47 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Senior Tool Designers?

Senior Tool Designers are experienced professionals who create, develop, and improve tools, dies, molds, and fixtures used in manufacturing processes. They work closely with engineers and production teams to ensure that tools are efficient, cost-effective, and meet specific design requirements. Senior Tool Designers often use CAD software to draft designs, oversee the fabrication process, and troubleshoot issues that arise during production. Their expertise helps companies streamline manufacturing, maintain quality standards, and reduce production costs.

What does a tool designer make?

A tool designer creates detailed plans and specifications for manufacturing tools, dies, jigs, and fixtures used in production processes. They use CAD software and engineering principles to develop tools that improve manufacturing efficiency and quality.

What is the highest paid design job?

Senior Tool Designers can earn high salaries, especially when working in specialized industries such as aerospace or automotive manufacturing, where advanced CAD skills and experience are valued. However, executive-level design roles like Chief Design Officer or Director of Design typically have the highest compensation in the design field, often exceeding six-figure salaries due to leadership responsibilities and strategic influence.

What are some of the common challenges faced by Senior Tool Designers when collaborating with cross-functional teams?

Senior Tool Designers often work closely with engineers, machinists, and production managers to ensure tools meet both design specifications and manufacturing requirements. A common challenge is balancing the technical needs of each department, such as optimizing tool functionality while considering cost and manufacturability. Effective communication and compromise are essential, as priorities may differ between teams. Success in this role often depends on the ability to translate complex design concepts into practical solutions that align with broader project goals.

What is the difference between Senior Tool Designer vs Tooling Engineer?

AspectSenior Tool DesignerTooling Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in mechanical engineering or manufacturing technology, with experience in tool designRequires similar engineering degrees, often with additional certifications in manufacturing processes
Work EnvironmentDesign-focused, often in CAD software, collaborating with manufacturing teamsMore technical, involved in the development, testing, and maintenance of tooling systems
Industry UsageCommon in manufacturing, automotive, aerospace industriesUsed in manufacturing, industrial equipment, and production facilities

While both roles require engineering knowledge and involve manufacturing environments, Senior Tool Designers focus on designing and developing tools, whereas Tooling Engineers handle the technical implementation, testing, and maintenance of tooling systems. Both roles are essential in manufacturing processes but differ in their primary responsibilities and focus areas.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Senior Tool Designer, and why are they important?

As a Senior Tool Designer, expertise in mechanical design, CAD software, and a solid understanding of manufacturing processes are essential, typically supported by an engineering degree or equivalent experience. Proficiency with design tools such as SolidWorks, AutoCAD, and simulation software, as well as knowledge of industry standards, is commonly required. Strong problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help in collaborating with engineers and production teams. These competencies ensure the creation of efficient, reliable tools that optimize manufacturing workflows and reduce production costs.

What careers can DT lead to?

A Senior Tool Designer can advance to roles such as Tooling Manager, Manufacturing Engineer, or Product Development Lead, leveraging skills in CAD software, machining, and project management. Career progression often involves gaining experience in design optimization, leadership, and industry-specific certifications.

What is the highest paid designer?

Senior Tool Designers with extensive experience, advanced skills in CAD software, and specialization in complex manufacturing processes tend to earn the highest salaries in the design field. Top earners often work in industries such as aerospace, automotive, or high-tech manufacturing and may hold certifications like Professional Engineer (PE) or Master’s degrees.
What cities are hiring for Senior Tool Designer jobs? Cities with the most Senior Tool Designer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Tool Designer jobs? The most popular types of Tool Designer jobs are:
What states have the most Senior Tool Designer jobs? States with the most job openings for Senior Tool Designer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Senior Tool Designer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $79,245 per year, or $38.1 per hour.

$37 - $42/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Designs new tooling and reworks existing tooling as requested by Engineering.

  • Leads tool design review meetings and collaborates with designers, engineers, tool makers, and machinists to solve design problems or resolve scheduling conflicts.

  • Performs virtual molding and flow simulation and manages daily SolidWorks maintenance tasks.


Job description

Trelleborg Medical Solutions is seeking a Tool Designer to join their Delano, MN team. The Tool Designer designs, evaluates and reworks tooling as necessary to meet customer needs. Open to an early-mid career or a senior-level designer.
 

Tasks and Responsibilities

  • Designs new tooling per Trelleborg standard practices
  • Leads tool design review meetings
  • Designs tool rework as requested by Engineering
  • Evaluates processes and methods for tool design
  • Works cooperatively with designers, engineers, tool makers, and machinists to solve design problems and/or resolve scheduling conflicts
  • Performs virtual molding and flow simulation
  • Manages daily SolidWorks maintenance tasks
  • Works with service and/or product suppliers
  • Assists in proposals for new projects
  • Uses CAD/CAM software to develop design and machine programming

Senior Tool Designer responsibilites:

    • Maintains a high level of autonomy and possesses the skill set necessary for the above tasks and responsibilities
    • Mentors and trains other tool designers, sharing knowledge, best practices, and purpose
    • Exercises discretion and independent judgment in handling day-to-day problems and procedures
    • Solves complex technical challenges in tooling and makes critical design decisions.
    • Collaborates with other teams and drives innovation

Education and Experience

  • Required
    • High school diploma or equivalent
    • 2-year technical degree in Machine Tool Trades/Tool and Die or equivalent experience
  • Desired
    • Some programming experience using CAD/CAM technology
    • Estimated 2 years of tool design experience
    • 2 year degree in Tooling or related discipline

         Senior Tool Designer Requirements:

  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Estimated 10 years of tool design experience
  • 2 year degree in Tooling or related discipline

Desired

  • 3+ years of programming experience using CAD/CAM technology

Competencies

  • Ability to read, write, speak and understand the English language
  • Ability to communicate clearly by conveying and receiving ideas, information and direction effectively
  • Demonstrated competence using Microsoft Office

As a valued team member with Trelleborg, you will enjoy:

Competitive compensation: Plus, bonus opportunities!
Generous benefits package: Includes health, dental, vision, STD, LTD, life, 401k, paid time off, tuition reimbursement, and more!
Clean work environment: Enjoy working in a very clean and climate-controlled environment every day!
Greater opportunity for impact: You will impact the production of life-saving devices.
Growth and advancement: Join a global company that loves to promote from within and allows for advancement.

Pay range: $37-42/hour depending on experience

NOTE: This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive. Employees may perform other related duties as required to meet the ongoing needs of the organization.

EEO Statement

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran, disability, or any other status protected by state or federal law.