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Tool Design Engineer Jobs in Connecticut (NOW HIRING)

TRUMPF's sheet metal fabrication tooling division is looking for a Tool Design Engineer to lead the development of custom punch and die solutions that enable our customers to innovate faster. You'll ...

New

TRUMPF's sheet metal fabrication tooling division is looking for a Tool Design Engineer to lead the development of custom punch and die solutions that enable our customers to innovate faster. You'll ...

New

Design Engineer

Waterbury, CT · On-site

$50 - $55/hr

The Tool Designer is responsible for the design, development, and documentation of deep draw ... This role works within the Engineering department under the Engineering Manager and is the primary ...

Design Engineer

Waterbury, CT · On-site

$50 - $55/hr

The Tool Designer is responsible for the design, development, and documentation of deep draw ... This role works within the Engineering department under the Engineering Manager and is the primary ...

Design Engineer

Waterbury, CT · On-site

$50 - $55/hr

The Tool Designer is responsible for the design, development, and documentation of deep draw ... This role works within the Engineering department under the Engineering Manager and is the primary ...

Tool Designer 1 Exempt Status: Non-Exempt Location: Cheshire, CT Company Description: Hanwha ... Communicate with Design Supervisor, Estimators, Manufacturing Engineers and Shop Personnel to ...

Tool Maker

Columbia, CT · On-site

$25 - $32.50/hr

Collaborate with engineers, quality inspectors, and production staff to improve tool design and functionality. * Maintain detailed documentation of tooling specifications, maintenance schedules, and ...

The Senior Tool Designer will actively maintain and improve knowledge of tool design, machines, engineering standards, procedures, new technology (materials, hydraulic and/or pneumatic clamping ...

This includes PDM administrative duties, CAD models & assemblies, bill of materials, engineering change orders, and tool assembly manuals. Other duties include activities focusing on the company ...

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Showing results 1-20

Tool Design Engineer information

See Connecticut salary details

$50.9K

$86K

$127K

How much do tool design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for tool design engineer in Connecticut is $86,043.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,400.00 and $98,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Tool Design Engineers?

Tool Design Engineers are professionals who create and develop tools, dies, jigs, fixtures, and other devices used in manufacturing processes. They work closely with production and engineering teams to design tools that improve efficiency, ensure product quality, and enhance safety. Their responsibilities include designing tools using CAD software, selecting appropriate materials, and overseeing the testing and modification of prototypes. Tool Design Engineers play a crucial role in optimizing production workflows and reducing costs.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced tool design engineers working in specialized industries such as aerospace, automotive, or defense can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, especially with seniority, advanced skills, and leadership roles. Such compensation often includes bonuses, stock options, or profit sharing, and typically requires extensive expertise in CAD software, materials, and manufacturing processes.

What does a tool design engineer do?

A tool design engineer develops and creates tools, dies, and fixtures used in manufacturing processes. They analyze product specifications, use CAD software to design tools, and collaborate with production teams to ensure functionality and efficiency. Strong knowledge of materials, manufacturing methods, and engineering principles is essential for this role.

What are some typical challenges Tool Design Engineers face when collaborating with manufacturing teams?

Tool Design Engineers often work closely with manufacturing teams to ensure that the tools they design are feasible, efficient, and meet production needs. A common challenge is balancing innovative tool design with practical manufacturing constraints, such as material costs or equipment capabilities. Effective communication is essential to translate technical drawings into actionable solutions and to address any unforeseen production issues quickly. By building strong relationships and maintaining open dialogue, Tool Design Engineers can help streamline production processes and drive continuous improvement.

What engineers make $200,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, software, and data engineering often earn $200,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and relevant certifications. Leadership roles like engineering managers and technical directors in high-demand industries can also reach or exceed this salary level.

What is the difference between Tool Design Engineer vs Manufacturing Engineer?

AspectTool Design EngineerManufacturing Engineer
Primary FocusDesigning and developing tools and dies used in manufacturing processesPlanning and optimizing manufacturing processes to produce products efficiently
Required SkillsCAD/CAM, mechanical design, materials knowledgeProcess improvement, production planning, quality control
Work EnvironmentDesign labs, machine shops, manufacturing plantsFactory floors, production lines, engineering offices
Common CertificationsCAD certifications, mechanical engineering degreesSix Sigma, Lean Manufacturing, engineering degrees

While both roles support manufacturing, Tool Design Engineers focus on creating the tools and dies needed for production, whereas Manufacturing Engineers optimize the overall manufacturing process to improve efficiency and quality.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and leadership roles. High-paying engineering positions often require advanced degrees, certifications, and expertise in high-demand areas or management responsibilities.

What Is Tool Design Engineering?

Tool design engineering is the practice of creating plans for creating new types of tools or making improvements to existing equipment. As a tool design engineer, your duties include drawing up blueprints and schematics, consulting with engineers and manufacturers about specifications and production, and working with teammates to solve problems. Qualifications for a career as a tool design engineer include a bachelor’s degree in electrical or mechanical engineering or a related subject. Some engineers have an advanced degree, but you can make up for a lesser degree through on the job experience. Analytical problem-solving skills are crucial for this career.

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

To thrive as a Tool Design Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical engineering, CAD modeling, and an understanding of manufacturing processes, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with software such as AutoCAD, SolidWorks, and knowledge of industry standards or certifications like ASME are often required. Strong problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective communication skills distinguish top performers in this role. These skills ensure the creation of precise, efficient, and cost-effective tools that meet production needs and quality standards.
What job categories do people searching Tool Design Engineer jobs in Connecticut look for? The top searched job categories for Tool Design Engineer jobs in Connecticut are:
What are popular job titles related to Tool Design Engineer jobs in CT? For Tool Design Engineer jobs in CT, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Tool Design Engineer job openings in Connecticut as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 92% Full Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 98% In-person, and 2% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $86,043 per year, or $41.4 per hour.

Tooling Design Engineer

Trumpf

Farmington, CT

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

New


Trumpf rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

41st of 487 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description


As a family-run, high-tech company with nearly 19,000 employees at 71 locations worldwide, we are looking for forward thinkers with unconventional ideas and drive to join our team. Our company culture, which values collaboration and mutual trust, creates the ideal framework for boldly trying new things and questioning the status quo. Our technologies inspire people to develop and produce things that are currently unimaginable. Whether lasers, machine tools, EUV or electronics - TRUMPF is building technological worlds for future generations. Are you ready for new challenges?

TRUMPF's sheet metal fabrication tooling division is looking for a Tool Design Engineer to lead the development of custom punch and die solutions that enable our customers to innovate faster. You'll own the complete lifecycle—from initial customer conversations through final validation—ensuring every tool meets exacting performance standards and delivers real value to our customers.

What You'll Do

  • Design and engineer punch and die tooling for sheet metal punching and forming applications, balancing customer specifications with manufacturing feasibility
  • Develop and program EDM (electrical discharge machining) processes, including electrode design and hard milling operations
  • Collaborate with the tool design team to troubleshoot production challenges and refine designs based on real-world performance
  • Create and maintain technical documentation—drawings, specifications, and test records—that clearly communicates design intent to production and quality teams
  • Conduct product testing and validation, document findings, and communicate results to ensure tooling reliability and performance
  • Process design change notices (ECNs) and implement updates as customer needs or production learnings require
  • Provide pre-sales and post-sales technical support, consulting directly with customers to understand their requirements and troubleshoot issues
  • Issue production orders based on finalized specifications

What We're Looking For

  • 5+ years of hands-on experience in sheet metal fabrication, tool and die making, or a related field
  • Proficiency with CAD software (Solidworks, HP ME10, or equivalent) and hard milling programming (TopCam, CamTek, or similar)
  • Working knowledge of EDM processes and TRUMPF punch equipment and ToPs software
  • Ability to communicate complex technical concepts clearly to teammates and customers—both in writing and face-to-face
  • Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail

Education & Background

  • Associate degree in mechanical engineering or related technical field preferred
  • 2+ years of formal technical training or related industry experience
  • Equivalent experience in tool design, fabrication engineering, or CAD-driven manufacturing will be considered

Why This Role Matters

Custom tooling is where precision meets creativity. As a Tool Design Engineer at TRUMPF, you'll work on solutions that enable manufacturers across automotive, aerospace, and industrial sectors to produce better products faster. Your designs don't just sit on a shelf—they go into production facilities worldwide, directly impacting how our customers compete.

TRUMPF Inc. endeavors to make TRUMPF careers pages accessible to any and all users. If you would like to contact us regarding the accessibility of our website or need assistance in completing the applications process, please contact our HR department at 860.255.6000 or at HRgeneral@us.trumpf.com. This contact information is for accommodation requests only and can not be used to inquire about the status of application.


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