1

Tool Engineer Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Tool Maker

Brea, CA

$32 - $42/hr

... advanced engineered solutions for the aerospace and transportation industries. Our primary ... At least 5-10 years of related experience working as a tool maker with Carbide Salary: $32-42/hour ...

... Engineer with Catia V6 tool expertise o Perform feasibility study - with respect to Safety components [for ex. [Steering wheel Airbag, Seat Airbag and Seat belts] o Packaging study of Safety ...

Sr AI/Agentic Engineer

Tustin, CA · On-site

$115K - $158K/yr

They are seeking a Senior AI Engineer to lead the delivery of AI features, focusing on document ... tool-calling framework, evaluation harness, and inference routing layer. • Own end-to-end LLM ...

Showing results 21-40

Tool Engineer information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$56.3K

$114.7K

$170.6K

How much do tool engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for tool engineer in Riverside, CA is $114,746.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $86,600.00 and $128,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a tool engineer?

Tool Engineers are specialized professionals who design, develop, and maintain tools, dies, jigs, fixtures, and other equipment used in manufacturing processes. They play a crucial role in improving production efficiency, ensuring product quality, and reducing manufacturing costs. Tool Engineers collaborate closely with design, production, and quality teams to create custom tools that meet specific project requirements. Their work often involves using CAD software, material science knowledge, and problem-solving skills to optimize manufacturing operations.

What is the difference between Tool Engineer vs Manufacturing Engineer?

AspectTool EngineerManufacturing Engineer
Primary FocusDesign, develop, and maintain manufacturing tools and equipmentOptimize manufacturing processes and workflows
Required SkillsCAD, mechanical skills, tool designProcess improvement, production planning
Work EnvironmentMachine shops, tool design labsFactories, production lines
Common CertificationsCAD certifications, mechanical engineeringSix Sigma, Lean Manufacturing

Tool Engineers focus on creating and maintaining tools and equipment used in manufacturing, ensuring efficient production. Manufacturing Engineers work on improving overall manufacturing processes and workflows. While both roles require technical skills and often overlap in industry settings, Tool Engineers specialize in tools and equipment design, whereas Manufacturing Engineers focus on process optimization.

What are some typical challenges tool engineers face when supporting production teams, and how can they be addressed?

Tool Engineers often encounter challenges such as urgent tool breakdowns, rapid design modifications, and balancing multiple project deadlines. Supporting production teams requires quick troubleshooting skills and effective communication to minimize downtime and ensure continuous operations. Proactively maintaining tooling, collaborating closely with operators and other engineers, and staying updated on the latest manufacturing technologies can help Tool Engineers address these challenges efficiently.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a tool engineer, and why are they important?

To excel as a Tool Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical engineering, tool design, and manufacturing processes, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with CAD software, CAM systems, and industry standards like GD&T, as well as certifications such as Six Sigma or Lean Manufacturing, is often required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help Tool Engineers collaborate with cross-functional teams and address production challenges. These competencies are essential for developing high-quality tools that optimize manufacturing efficiency and ensure product reliability.
Infographic showing various Tool Engineer job openings in Riverside, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% Internship, 84% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 7% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 87% In-person, 10% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $114,746 per year, or $55.2 per hour.

Tool Designer Level II - 1st Shift

Aluminium Precision Products

Santa Ana, CA • On-site

$25.57 - $34.09/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 17 days ago


Job description

Aluminum Precision Products (APP) is an international leader in manufacturing aluminum forgings. We offer you the opportunity to be a part of a globally recognized organization that enjoys an unparalleled reputation for quality. Here you'll be challenged on a daily basis, tasked with solving problems, working with smart, energetic, and dedicated people with an opportunity to grow and learn.
Job Summary:
The Tool Designer is responsible for all aspects of tooling design and production support throughout the forging facility. This position will support the entire product development at the designated manufacturing locations.
Job Requirements:
  • Responsible for Designing tools and supporting product development.
  • Responsible for developing 3D forging models and 2D drawings for quotation
  • Will validate designs using FEA simulation software
  • May be required to work in other Engineering functions like Quality Engineering, Process Engineering or Manufacturing Engineering.
  • Work to support customer due dates
  • Interact on the shop floor throughout the Company to problem solve and optimize current processes and procedures.
  • Perform any other duties not mentioned above when instructed to do so by the department manager.

Skill Requirements:
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical/Manufacturing/Material Science or 5+ years relevant work experience
  • Understand the fundamentals of GD&T
  • Design Experience in 3D solid modeling
  • Demonstrated ability to apply critical thought to develop, recommend and implement strategies and programs that address company and departmental objectives.
  • Demonstrated ability to interact effectively with the company executives, managers, and staff.
  • Highly organized and plans effectively.
  • Displays a strong ability to analyze issues and solve problems.
  • Effectively applies rational, data driven solutions to difficult situations
  • English (reading, writing, verbal and comprehension).

This position may require access to information subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and/or the Export Administration Regulations (EAR). To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.
Why work for APP?
  • Medical, Dental, Vision - Generous company contribution, low cost to employee
  • Life insurance - 100% company paid - covers employee, spouse and dependent children
  • Generous Vacation Time
  • 9 Paid Holidays
  • Holiday Shut Down (Christmas thru New Year's)
  • Sick Time
  • Annual Bonus (based on company meeting Key Results)
  • 401k (Company matches up to 4%)
  • ESOP Employee Profit Sharing Retirement Plan (100% Company Paid)
  • Tuition reimbursement

Compensation: $25.57 - $34.09 an hour. This is the lowest to highest hourly rate we in good faith believe we would pay for this role at the time of this posting. We may ultimately pay more or less than the posted range, and the range may be modified in the future. An employee's pay within the salary range will be based on several factors including, but limited to, relevant education, qualifications, certifications, experience, skills, seniority, geographic location, performance, and business or organizational needs.
APP is an ESOP (Employee Stock Ownership Plan) Company and we are committed to the long term growth of our organization and employees. We offer an excellent benefits package including Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, and 401k plan.
APP, Inc. engineers and manufactures certain products that are considered ITAR-controlled items under the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). Consistent with ITAR, any position at APP, Inc. that involves work with the engineering or manufacturing functions of the Company may only be filled by a candidate who is (i) a citizen of the United States, or (ii) a person who has been accorded the privilege of residing permanently in the United States as an immigrant in accordance with the immigration laws. Are you a U.S. Citizen or U.S. Person? (U.S. Person = a natural person who is a lawful permanent resident as defined in 8 U.S.C. 1101(a)(20) or who is a protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3).)
Accessibility:If you need help accessing this page please contact us by Email: apphr@aluminumprecision.com
Aluminum Precision Products, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer, including disability and vets.
If you want to view the EEO is the Law poster in English, Spanish, Arabic, and Chinese please click here.