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Tooling Designer Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

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Management Business Solutions is seeking a Senior Precision Tooling Designer for a manufacturing client in West Michigan . This is an exciting opportunity to design and develop custom precision ...

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Waltonen Engineering is seeking a Tooling Designer to join our team! Responsibilities * Report to Waltonen Design Lead/Program Manager * Create engineered solutions using NX - from concept through 3D ...

Waltonen Engineering is seeking a Tooling Designer to join our team! Responsibilities * Report to Waltonen Design Lead/Program Manager * Create engineered solutions using NX - from concept through 3D ...

Review Tool Designs, kick-off tooling and follow build process * Manage all first sample try-outs, and provide processing input * Tool tracking and reporting for current and new programs * Provide ...

Review Tool Designs, kick-off tooling and follow build process * Manage all first sample try-outs, and provide processing input * Tool tracking and reporting for current and new programs * Provide ...

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Tooling Designer information

See Michigan salary details

$20

$33

$44

How much do tooling designer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for tooling designer in Michigan is $33.21, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $27.26 and $38.75 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a tooling designer?

Tooling Designers are professionals who create and develop the tools, dies, molds, jigs, and fixtures used in manufacturing processes. They work closely with engineers and production teams to design equipment that ensures products are manufactured efficiently, safely, and to specification. Tooling Designers use CAD software and other technical tools to create designs, test prototypes, and refine tooling for mass production. Their expertise helps manufacturers reduce costs, improve product quality, and streamline operations.

What are some common challenges faced by tooling designers when working on new product launches?

Tooling Designers often face tight deadlines and changing specifications during new product launches. Coordinating with engineers, production teams, and suppliers can present challenges, especially when design modifications are required to address manufacturability or cost concerns. Balancing the need for innovative tooling solutions with practical production constraints is essential, and designers must ensure their designs are both efficient and reliable to avoid costly delays. Effective communication and adaptability are key for success in this fast-paced environment.

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 abilities in mechanical design, CAD modeling, and a solid understanding of manufacturing processes, usually supported by a degree in engineering or industrial design. Proficiency with CAD software such as SolidWorks, AutoCAD, or CATIA and familiarity with materials selection and simulation tools are commonly required. Attention to detail, creative problem-solving, and effective collaboration are standout soft skills in this field. These skills and qualities are essential for developing efficient, high-quality tooling solutions that meet production requirements and ensure manufacturing success.

What is the difference between Tooling Designer vs Manufacturing Engineer?

AspectTooling DesignerManufacturing Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires a technical diploma or associate degree in manufacturing, mechanical design, or related fieldsBachelor's degree in manufacturing, industrial engineering, or mechanical engineering
Work EnvironmentDesigns and develops tooling for manufacturing processes, often working in CAD software and collaborating with production teamsOversees manufacturing processes, improves production efficiency, and ensures quality in factory settings
Industry UsageCommonly employed in automotive, aerospace, and consumer goods manufacturingUsed across various manufacturing sectors to optimize production systems

While both roles support manufacturing, Tooling Designers focus on creating the tools and dies needed for production, whereas Manufacturing Engineers optimize and manage the overall manufacturing processes. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job focus within manufacturing industries.

What are popular job titles related to Tooling Designer jobs in Michigan?

For Tooling Designer jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What are popular job titles related to Tooling Designer jobs in MI?

For Tooling Designer jobs in MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Tooling Designer job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% Internship, 91% Full Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $69,069 per year, or $33.2 per hour.

Senior Precision Tooling Designer

Management Business Solutions

Grand Rapids, MI • On-site

$30 - $35/hr

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

New

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Job description

SUMMARY: Management Business Solutions is seeking a Senior Precision Tooling Designer for a manufacturing client in West Michigan. This is an exciting opportunity to design and develop custom precision tooling solutions that help manufacturers improve performance, quality, and efficiency. The ideal candidate will bring strong CAD design skills, hands-on machining knowledge, and a solid understanding of precision manufacturing. This is a hands-on role for an experienced tooling professional who enjoys turning unique customer needs into practical engineering solutions and collaborating with engineering, manufacturing, sales, and customers.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Develop custom precision cutting tools, fixtures, and specialty tooling based on customer and manufacturing requirements.
  • Generate and maintain 3D CAD models, engineering drawings, specifications, and production documentation.
  • Optimize existing tooling designs to improve performance, manufacturability, quality, and cost efficiency.
  • Partner with manufacturing teams to troubleshoot tooling and production challenges and identify practical solutions.
  • Collaborate with engineering, sales, and application teams on customer-specific tooling projects.
  • Guide new tooling projects from initial concept and design through testing and production.
  • Investigate tooling and manufacturing issues through root cause analysis and support continuous improvement initiatives.
  • Verify that designs meet customer requirements, dimensional specifications, quality standards, and manufacturing capabilities.

 

QUALIFICATIONS:

  • 5+ years of experience in cutting tool design, tooling, or manufacturing engineering.
  • Strong knowledge of precision machining and cutting tool principles.
  • Hands-on machining experience required.
  • Proficiency with 3D CAD software; Autodesk Inventor preferred.
  • Familiarity with CNC machining, grinding, GD&T, and precision manufacturing.
  • Experience with BOMs, ERP systems, and engineering documentation.
  • Strong problem-solving, communication, and attention-to-detail skills.
  • Ability to collaborate effectively with engineering and manufacturing teams.

 

MANAGEMENT BUSINESS SOLUTIONS IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER