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Tooling Design Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Apar Technologies

Tooling Engineer

San Antonio, TX · On-site

Minimum 10 years of relevant experience in automotive or trucking environments and proven record of tooling design and implementation Role Overview * The Tooling Engineer will be responsible for ...

Actalent

Tooling Design Engineer

Berkeley, CA · Hybrid

$80 - $90/hr

Tooling Design Engineer We are seeking a dedicated Mechanical Engineer to join our Field Service team. In this role, you will be responsible for designing and delivering custom field service ...

Anduril Industries

Tooling Engineer, Sentry

Irvine, CA · On-site

This role works closely with manufacturing, design, quality, and supply chain teams to create tooling solutions that meet the demanding requirements of defense manufacturing - including precision ...

L3HHCM20

Manager, Tooling Engineering

Redmond, WA · On-site

You must deeply understand not just how to design and build tooling, but the products being manufactured - their design intent, functionality, and critical features - to effectively translate ...

Anduril Industries

Tooling Engineer, Sentry

Irvine, CA · On-site

This role works closely with manufacturing, design, quality, and supply chain teams to create tooling solutions that meet the demanding requirements of defense manufacturing - including precision ...

Kenda Tires

Tooling Engineer

Cartersville, GA · On-site

The Tooling Engineer leads the design and development of precision tooling for the production of steel parts. This role requires a technical expert who will bridge the gap between digital design and ...

Actalent

Senior Tooling Design Engineer

Kirkland, WA · On-site

$65 - $68/hr

Tooling design experience in a manufacturing or production environment * Experience collaborating with manufacturing and design/engineering teams * Design review experience * Hands-on fabrication and ...

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Tooling Design information

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How much do tooling design jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for tooling design 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 is the highest paid design job?

In tooling design and related engineering fields, senior roles such as Lead Tooling Engineer or Design Manager tend to have the highest salaries, often exceeding six figures annually. These positions typically require extensive experience, advanced technical skills, and knowledge of CAD software and manufacturing processes.

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.

How much do tool designers make?

Tool designers typically earn a median annual salary of around $60,000 to $80,000, depending on experience, location, and industry. Advanced skills in CAD software and knowledge of manufacturing processes can lead to higher compensation, with some experienced professionals earning over $100,000 annually.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced engineering roles such as senior aerospace engineers, petroleum engineers, or specialized software engineers in high-demand industries can earn $500,000 or more annually. These positions often require advanced skills, extensive experience, and sometimes leadership or executive responsibilities.

What does a tool designer do?

A tool designer develops and creates tools, dies, and fixtures used in manufacturing processes to produce parts and products. They use CAD software to design tools, analyze materials, and ensure functionality and safety, often collaborating with engineers and machinists. Strong knowledge of manufacturing methods, materials, and precision measurement is essential in 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.

More about Tooling Design jobs
What states have the most Tooling Design jobs? States with the most job openings for Tooling Design jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Tooling Design jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Tooling Design jobs are:
Tooling Design jobs near you
Infographic showing various Tooling Design job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $79,245 per year, or $38.1 per hour.

Tooling Engineer

Apar Technologies

San Antonio, TX • On-site

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Tooling Engineer

Location: San Antonio, Texas

Job Type: Fulltime

Experience: Minimum 10 years of relevant experience in automotive or trucking environments and proven record of tooling design and implementation

Role Overview

  • The Tooling Engineer will be responsible for sourcing and deploying new or upgraded tooling required to achieve throughput targets.
  • This role involves working closely with local engineers and design teams to ensure that target results are achieved efficiently and effectively.

Key Responsibilities

  • Source and deploy new or upgraded tooling to meet throughput targets.
  • Collaborate with local engineers and design teams to ensure tooling meets project requirements.
  • Manage tooling implementation from concept to validation.
  • Ensure compliance with safety and quality standards during tooling deployment.
  • Monitor and validate tooling performance against defined targets.

Required Qualifications & Skills

  • Minimum 10 years of relevant experience in automotive or trucking environments.
  • Proven record of tooling design and implementation.
  • Strong project management and organizational skills.
  • Excellent communication and collaboration abilities.
  • Ability to troubleshoot and resolve tooling-related issues promptly.

Education Criteria

  • All engineers must hold a 4-year engineering degree in their respective discipline.

Preferred Skills

  • Experience in advanced tooling technologies and automation.
  • Knowledge of lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement methodologies.
  • Familiarity with CAD tools