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Tooling Design Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

A minimum of 5 years of tooling experience in the extrusion industry (or equivalent demonstrated ... Know the design requirements for over 100 different aluminum alloy/temper combinations on extrusion ...

Accurately complete effective and efficient tooling design processes. * Know the design requirements for over 100 different aluminum alloy/temper combinations on extrusion presses from 900-14,000 ...

Partner cross-functionally with planning, design, and production to resolve tooling, material, and manufacturing issues * Maintain and update engineering standards, spec sheets, and process ...

VU MIP Machining Intern

Evansville, IN · On-site

$16 - $20.75/hr

Tooling Design area activities: * Generate tooling component CAD models and detail drawings using SolidWorks * Participate in reverse engineering activities * Maintain and release CAD data for ...

VU MIP Machining Intern

Evansville, IN

$17 - $22.25/hr

Tooling Design area activities: * Generate tooling component CAD models and detail drawings using SolidWorks * Participate in reverse engineering activities * Maintain and release CAD data for ...

Design and develop tooling, fixtures, and machine components to support manufacturing processes * Create detailed 3D models, assemblies, and drawings using SolidWorks * Collaborate with manufacturing ...

Tool Die Maker

Michigan City, IN · On-site

$25.25 - $31.75/hr

Essential Duties and Responsibilities Tooling Design & Fabrication o CNC Machining & CAM Programming: Program and operate Haas CNC machining centers using Mastercam software to produce precision ...

Troubleshoot machining issues and recommend process improvements * Assist with tooling design modifications * Maintain tool room organization and equipment * Follow all safety procedures and company ...

Manufacturing Engineer

Union City, IN

$66K - $85K/yr

The manufacturing Engineer will be responsible for process and tooling design. The position will provide direction to plant floor employees and other colleagues. * The engineer will need to be self ...

Manufacturing Engineer

Union City, IN

$66K - $85K/yr

The manufacturing Engineer will be responsible for process and tooling design. The position will provide direction to plant floor employees and other colleagues. * The engineer will need to be self ...

Reviews product design and build requirements to determine tooling concepts, design options, testing plans, and specifications. Develops designs for fixtures, jigs, gauges, cutting and forming tools ...

Reviews product design and build requirements to determine tooling concepts, design options, testing plans, and specifications. Develops designs for fixtures, jigs, gauges, cutting and forming tools ...

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Tooling Design information

See Indiana salary details

$22

$36

$48

How much do tooling design jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for tooling design in Indiana is $36.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $29.76 and $42.31 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Tooling Designer, you need strong knowledge of mechanical engineering principles, CAD software proficiency, and experience with manufacturing processes, often supported by a degree in engineering or a related field. Familiarity with technical tools such as SolidWorks, AutoCAD, and simulation software, as well as knowledge of industry standards, is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help distinguish top performers in this role. These competencies are crucial to ensure the creation of efficient, precise tooling that supports safe and cost-effective production.

What is tooling design?

Tooling design is the process of creating and developing tools, dies, molds, jigs, and fixtures required to manufacture parts and products efficiently and accurately. Tooling designers work closely with engineers and manufacturers to ensure that the tools meet production needs, maintain quality, and optimize processes. This field is crucial in industries such as automotive, aerospace, electronics, and consumer goods where custom tools are needed to mass-produce components. Effective tooling design can reduce production costs, improve product quality, and speed up manufacturing cycles.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

In tooling design, experienced professionals can earn around $10,000 per month through specialized skills in CAD software, manufacturing processes, and project management. High-paying roles often require extensive experience, a strong portfolio, and industry certifications, but they do not necessarily require a formal degree.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as software engineering, petroleum engineering, and aerospace engineering can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and in high-demand industries. Executive-level engineering roles or those with significant managerial responsibilities may also reach this compensation level.

What does a tool designer do?

A tool designer creates and develops tools, dies, and fixtures used in manufacturing processes to produce parts efficiently and accurately. They use CAD software to design tools, collaborate with engineers and machinists, and ensure designs meet specifications and safety standards. Strong knowledge of materials, manufacturing methods, and technical drawing is essential for this role.

What are some common challenges faced by tooling designers when collaborating with manufacturing teams?

Tooling designers often encounter challenges such as balancing design specifications with manufacturability and cost constraints. Effective communication with manufacturing teams is crucial to ensure that tooling designs are practical and align with production capabilities. Additionally, adapting designs to accommodate last-minute changes or resolving unforeseen production issues requires flexibility and problem-solving skills. Building strong working relationships with engineers and machinists helps streamline the design-to-production process.

What is the difference between Tooling Design vs Manufacturing Engineering?

AspectTooling DesignManufacturing Engineering
Primary FocusDesigning and developing manufacturing tools and equipmentPlanning and optimizing manufacturing processes
Required SkillsCAD, mechanical design, materials knowledgeProcess analysis, production workflows, quality control
Work EnvironmentDesign offices, machine shopsFactory floors, production lines
Common CertificationsCAD certifications, mechanical engineering degreesSix Sigma, Lean Manufacturing certifications

Tooling Design focuses on creating the tools and equipment used in manufacturing, while Manufacturing Engineering oversees the entire production process. Both roles require technical skills and often collaborate to improve manufacturing efficiency.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as software engineering, petroleum engineering, or aerospace engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of base salary, bonuses, and stock options. Achieving this level typically requires extensive experience, advanced skills, and working in high-demand industries or leadership roles.
What are popular job titles related to Tooling Design jobs in Indiana? For Tooling Design jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Tooling Design jobs in Indiana look for? The top searched job categories for Tooling Design jobs in Indiana are:
Infographic showing various Tooling Design job openings in Indiana as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 98% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $75,406 per year, or $36.3 per hour.
CAD/CAM & Die Designer

CAD/CAM & Die Designer

Arconic

Lafayette, IN

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago


Arconic rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 43 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

146th of 518 rated manufacturers


Job description

Arconic is currently in search of a CAD/CAM & Die Designer to join our Aluminum Extrusion (AEX) business unit in Lafayette, IN.

At Arconic, we take pride in our work and our innovative products and technologies that advance sustainable solutions for a better world.  We strive to create a safe, inclusive and collaborative workplace with competitive benefits, development opportunities and a culture that values and rewards employees on all levels of the organization. 

Profile: The primary purpose of this role is to complete designs and program NC machines for the manufacture of tooling used in the Lafayette Division extrusion and tube processes. 

Arconic Corporation is a leading provider of aluminum sheet, plate and extrusions, as well as innovative architectural products, that advance the automotive, aerospace, commercial transportation, industrial and building and construction markets. Building on more than a century of innovation, Arconic helps to transform the way we fly, drive, and build. 
We live our core values and commit to delivering sustainable value to our customers, our employees, our communities and our stakeholders. 
At Arconic, we: 
Act With Integrity : We lead with respect, honesty, transparency and accountability. 
Safeguard our Future : We protect and improve the health and safety of our employees, communities and environment. 
Grow Stronger Together : We cultivate an inclusive and diverse culture that advocates for equity. 
Earn Customer Loyalty : We build customer partnerships through best-in-class products and service. 
Drive Operational Excellence : We pursue continuous improvement through innovation, agility, people development and collaboration. 
Create Value : We achieve success by generating and growing value for our stakeholders. 
This position is subject to Export Control Law: This position requires access to controlled technology, as defined in the Export Administration Regulations (15 C.F.R. 730, et seq.) and/or the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). Authorizations from the relevant government agency may be required to meet export control compliance requirements.
United States EEO StatementArconic Corporation is an equal opportunity employer. We take action to ensure equal opportunity for all applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, Veteran status, or other legally protected characteristics.
Lafayette Operations in Lafayette, IN is located approximately 60 miles from the state's capital, Indianapolis and is the home to Purdue University. Our Lafayette location has been continuously running in Lafayette community since 1938. We are an Aluminum Extrusions plant for Aerospace, Automotive, Industrial and Defense facility. 

Basic Qualifications:

  • An associate's degree in design or drafting from an accredited institution
  • A minimum of 5 years of tooling experience in the extrusion industry (or equivalent demonstrated experience)
  • This position requires access to controlled technology, as defined in the Export Administration Regulations (15 C.F.R. 730, et seq.) and/or the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). Qualified candidate must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the relevant government agency. Business demands may require employer to proceed with candidates who are immediately eligible to access controlled technology.

Preferred Qualifications: 

  • Knowledge of trigonometry, 2 to 3 Axis NC Machine operation and capabilities
  • Self-starter with attention to detail
  • Demonstrated interest in working as a team member within the CAD/CAM Group of the Manufacturing Tooling Department

 

In this role you will:

  • Complete drawings that accurately represent customer dimensional requirements.

  • Accurately complete effective and efficient tooling design processes.

  • Know the design requirements for over 100 different aluminum alloy/temper combinations on extrusion presses from 900-14,000 tons using both the direct and indirect extrusion method and in the programming of the mills, lathes, and wire EDM machines.

  • Operating the CAD design software as required based on input from the Design Supervisor and the Process Technologists.

  • Complete section drawings, detail drawings, and designs for the manufacture and use of tools and dies using individual expertise and computer-aided tools.

  • Operate CAM software and complete the CAM program for Numerically Controlled Machines ranging from 2 to 3 for the manufacture of extrusion dies and tools.

  • Calculate die openings, bearings, tapers, and tool support for basic regular extrusion dies as well as the most complex step dies, hollow dies, and tube tooling using individual expertise and computer-aided tools.

  • Complete and maintain documentation for all designs under the control of the incumbent.

  • Develop basic computer skills and a basic knowledge of the NT operating system.


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