1

Tooling Design Engineer Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Consult on new product quotes with product engineering team to determine feasibility and cost ... In-depth understanding of a variety of cold-forming techniques, tooling materials and design, and ...

Consult on new product quotes with product engineering team to determine feasibility and cost ... In-depth understanding of a variety of cold-forming techniques, tooling materials and design, and ...

Lead the design and development of high-performance tooling for manufacturing equipment, ensuring tooling meets production requirements, specifications, and industry standards. * Spearhead the ...

Lead the design and development of high-performance tooling for manufacturing equipment, ensuring tooling meets production requirements, specifications, and industry standards. * Spearhead the ...

Senior Tool Design Engineer

Mundelein, IL · On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

Lead the design and development of high-performance tooling for manufacturing equipment, ensuring tooling meets production requirements, specifications, and industry standards. * Spearhead the ...

Design and develop tooling systems for manufacturing processes, ensuring they align with production goals and product specifications. * Collaborate effectively with production teams, engineering, and ...

Design and develop tooling systems for manufacturing processes, ensuring they align with production goals and product specifications. * Collaborate effectively with production teams, engineering, and ...

Tooling Engineer- Plano

Plano, IL · On-site

$90K - $105K/yr

Tooling Engineer - Plastics Schedule: Full-time, onsite, Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM-4:00 PM Pay: $90 ... Design molds, tooling, and fixtures for plastic-component production. * Create and modify designs ...

Facilitate routine CAD data transfers of part data and tooling records between Design Engineering, Sales, and Vendors via email and various cloud services. * Support tooling quoting as needed for New ...

Tooling Engineer | Fasteners

Wood Dale, IL · On-site

$110K - $150K/yr

Description Design, develop, and improve tooling for fastener manufacturing operations, including ... Apply GD&T principles and engineering standards to tooling and process development. Conduct root ...

Design and develop tooling solutions for plastic parts production, considering factors such as material properties, part design, and production requirements. * Collaborate with engineering ...

Manufacturing Engineer (Tooling)

Mccook, IL · On-site

$72K - $93K/yr

Job Summary We are seeking a skilled Manufacturing Engineer (Tooling) with strong expertise in tooling design, process development, and continuous improvement. The ideal candidate will support ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Tooling Design Engineer information

See Illinois salary details

$51.8K

$87.6K

$129.4K

How much do tooling design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for tooling design engineer in Illinois is $87,647.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $70,700.00 and $99,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a tooling design engineer?

Tooling Design Engineers are professionals who design and develop tools, dies, molds, jigs, fixtures, and other equipment used in manufacturing processes. They work closely with production teams to ensure that the tools they design improve efficiency, maintain quality, and meet specific production requirements. These engineers use CAD software and engineering principles to create precise and durable tooling solutions, and often collaborate with machinists and other engineers to refine their designs. Their role is vital in optimizing the manufacturing workflow and reducing production costs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a tooling design engineer?

To thrive as a Tooling Design Engineer, you need expertise in mechanical engineering principles, CAD software proficiency, and a solid understanding of manufacturing processes, often supported by a relevant engineering degree. Mastery of tools like SolidWorks, AutoCAD, and familiarity with simulation software or GD&T certifications are commonly required. Strong problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you collaborate with cross-functional teams and address complex design challenges. These skills ensure the delivery of efficient, cost-effective tooling solutions that meet production and quality standards.

What are some common challenges tooling design engineers face when working on new product launches?

Tooling Design Engineers often encounter challenges such as tight development timelines, evolving product specifications, and the need to balance cost-efficiency with durability in tooling materials. Collaborating closely with manufacturing teams and suppliers is crucial to ensure designs are both manufacturable and maintainable. Additionally, they must proactively address potential production bottlenecks by anticipating how tool designs will perform during large-scale manufacturing, which often requires adaptability and strong problem-solving skills.

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

AspectTooling Design EngineerManufacturing Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Mechanical or Industrial Engineering, CAD certificationsBachelor's in Mechanical, Industrial, or Manufacturing Engineering, CAD certifications
Work EnvironmentDesign labs, CAD software, manufacturing plantsProduction floors, design offices, plant management
Industry UsageAutomotive, aerospace, consumer goods manufacturingAutomotive, aerospace, electronics, consumer products

Tooling Design Engineers focus on creating and optimizing tools and dies used in manufacturing processes, while Manufacturing Engineers oversee the entire production process to improve efficiency and quality. Both roles require engineering backgrounds and CAD skills, but their daily tasks and focus areas differ significantly.

What are popular job titles related to Tooling Design Engineer jobs in IL?

For Tooling Design Engineer jobs in IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Tooling Design Engineer job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $87,647 per year, or $42.1 per hour.

$110K - $140K/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago


Job description

Key Responsibilities

  • Analyze blueprints, specifications, and proposals for tooling strategy and form.
  • Translate requirements into forming progression
  • Model tooling and create tooling drawings for each tooling component.  Revise drawings as needed during tooling debug or production
  • Collaborate with tooling vendors and internal toolmakers to produce tooling to drawing specifications.
  • Oversee tooling debug as part of the manufacturing startup.
  • Consult on new product quotes with product engineering team to determine feasibility and cost drivers

Competencies

  • Capability to run tool making equipment such as EDM machines, lathes, grinders, etc…
  • High proficiency in utilizing modeling and drawing software such as Solidworks
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.  Highly collaborative.
  • Ability to manage high pressure situations during tooling debug
  • Keen focus on meeting target dates and deadlines

Knowledge:

    • In-depth understanding of a variety of cold-forming techniques, tooling materials and design, and costs related to production of metal products. 
    • Ability to analyze and understand prints.  GD&T knowledge preferred.