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Tooling Designer Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Press Tooling Designer REPORTS TO: Press Tooling Manager STATUS: Full Time/Hourly Non-Exempt (40 hrs./week; additional hours as needed to support organization and individual goals) LOCATION: Thumb ...

Press Tooling Designer REPORTS TO: Press Tooling Manager STATUS: Full Time/Hourly Non-Exempt (40 hrs./week; additional hours as needed to support organization and individual goals) LOCATION: Thumb ...

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 ...

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 ...

Reviews tool designs submitted by tool sources and makes necessary recommendations to meet customer ... Attends new tooling reviews with corporate tooling design team. * All other duties as assigned.

Apply a deep understanding of press brake operation to ensure tooling designs are practical, safe, and efficient. * Incorporate the limitations and capabilities of press brake processes into tooling ...

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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 9, 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 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 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 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 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 job categories do people searching Tooling Designer jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Tooling Designer jobs in Michigan 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 92% Full Time, 1% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,069 per year, or $33.2 per hour.

Press Tooling Designer

Gemini Group, Inc.

Bad Axe, MI โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 8 days ago


Job description

DATE: March 3, 2026
TITLE: Press Tooling Designer
REPORTS TO: Press Tooling Manager
STATUS: Full Time/Hourly Non-Exempt (40 hrs./week; additional hours as needed to support organization and individual goals)
LOCATION: Thumb Tool amp; Engineering โ€“ Bad Axe, MI
Job Requirements:
  • High school diploma or GED equivalent; or 1 to 2 years previous experience.
  • Basic computer skills (Microsoft Office)
  • Basic extrusion press knowledge
  • Strong communication skills
  • Quality focused
  • Excellent customer service
  • Mechanically minded
  • Strong organizational skills
  • Customer Service skills

Job Preferences:
  • Ability to think critically
  • Advanced computer skills: Computer Aided Design (CAD) and AS400 experience
  • Advanced computer skills: Microsoft Excel, Word, Power Point, Outlook
  • Strong math skills
  • Manufacturing experience
  • Ability to learn and adapt
  • Ability to analyze information
  • Six sigma yellow belt or equivalent
  • Detail oriented

Job Summary:
Prepares clear, complete, and accurate working plans and detailed drawings necessary to manufacture desired tooling from rough or detailed sketches, notes, or customer input requirements, by performing the essential job functions.
Essential Job Functions:
  • Review purchase orders, parts prints, and other customer requirements to create a design
  • Receives inspection information for Rework dummy blocks and communicates with customer as needed
  • Performs inspections of rework containers and communicates with customer as needed.
  • Performs inspection of miscellaneous rework press tooling and communicates with customers as needed
  • Receives and processes customer orders
  • Creates rough drawings with the use of CAD
  • Adjusts or changes rough drawings
  • Draws and saves finished designs from rough drawings
  • Assemble final package for manufacturing
  • Performs and documents specified inspection criteria
  • Communicates with internal and external customers
  • Quotes press tooling to customers
  • Time tracking and cost analysis reporting

Questions: Please contact Brianne Pfaff via email bpfaff@geminigroup.net or at (989) 269-9731 with any questions. As a part of the hiring process, your current supervisor may be contacted for a reference.