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Tooling Engineer Jobs in Elgin, IL (NOW HIRING)

Pure Fishing

Tooling Engineer

Sandwich, IL · On-site

Tooling Engineer Position Summary As a Plastics Tooling Engineer, you will design, develop, and optimize tooling solutions that support the production of high-quality plastic components. Working in a ...

Koch Industries

Tooling Engineer

Naperville, IL · On-site

$105K - $145K/yr

Your Job Molex, LLC is seeking a Tooling Engineer to join our team. In this role, you will drive manufacturing excellence for precision injection molding and tooling across Molex's global network.

Flex Ltd.

Tooling Engineer-1

Libertyville, IL · On-site

$122K - $168K/yr

Reporting to the Sr. Process Engineering Manager, the potential candidate would be responsible for designing and engineering tooling protocols for molds, jigs and fixtures as required to meet ...

Flex

Tooling Engineer-1

Libertyville, IL · On-site

$122K - $168K/yr

Reporting to the Sr. Process Engineering Manager, the potential candidate would be responsible for designing and engineering tooling protocols for molds, jigs and fixtures as required to meet ...

MW Industries, Inc.

Tooling Design Engineer

Addison, IL

$110K - $140K/hr

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 ...

MW Industries

Tooling Design Engineer

Addison, IL · On-site

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 ...

MW Industries, Inc.

Project Engineer

Addison, IL

$95K - $130K/hr

Collaborate with operators, tooling engineering and operations management to drive consistency in process performance and utilization * Support discussions with outside vendors providing services for ...

DEO TEK, Inc

Tool Room Supervisor

Carpentersville, IL · On-site

$80K/yr

Works closely with tooling and manufacturing engineers along with production supervisors to improve plant safety, part quality, line productivity and tool performance. Manages tool room consumables ...

MW Industries

Project Engineer

Addison, IL · On-site

Collaborate with operators, tooling engineering and operations management to drive consistency in process performance and utilization * Support discussions with outside vendors providing services for ...

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All JobsTooling Engineer JobsTooling Engineer Jobs in Elgin, IL

Tooling Engineer information

See Elgin, IL salary details

$53.4K

$108.7K

$161.6K

How much do tooling engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for tooling engineer in Elgin, IL is $108,724.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,000.00 and $121,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a tooling engineer?

Tooling Engineers are specialized professionals who design, develop, and maintain the tools, molds, dies, and fixtures used in manufacturing processes. They work closely with engineering and production teams to ensure that tools are efficient, cost-effective, and meet product specifications. Tooling Engineers play a critical role in optimizing production quality and efficiency by selecting appropriate materials, overseeing tool fabrication, and troubleshooting issues related to tool performance.

What does a tooling engineer do?

A tooling engineer uses computer-aided (CAD) manufacturing to create and adjust tools or parts for vehicles, airplanes, heavy equipment, or any product that needs customized components. As a tooling engineer, your duties include drafting blueprints for designs crafting the necessary pieces. You also improve previous designs. You should have experience with metalworking and mechanics. Computer skills are just also important because tooling engineers build and troubleshoot designs with CAD software.

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

To thrive as a Tooling Engineer, you need strong knowledge of manufacturing processes, mechanical engineering principles, and experience with tooling design, typically supported by a degree in engineering or a related field. Proficiency in CAD software (such as SolidWorks or AutoCAD), familiarity with CAM systems, and understanding of industry standards are essential technical requirements. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help Tooling Engineers excel in cross-functional teams and address complex challenges. These skills ensure the efficient design, maintenance, and improvement of tooling systems critical to high-quality production and cost-effective manufacturing.

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

Tooling Engineers often encounter tight timelines and evolving design specifications during new product launches. Coordinating with design, manufacturing, and quality teams to ensure tools meet all requirements can be complex, especially when last-minute changes arise. Additionally, balancing cost efficiency with durability and precision in tool design is a frequent challenge. Effective communication and adaptability are key skills for overcoming these hurdles and ensuring a successful product launch.

What is the difference between Tooling Engineer vs Manufacturing Engineer?

AspectTooling EngineerManufacturing Engineer
Primary FocusDesign, develop, and maintain manufacturing tools and equipmentOptimize manufacturing processes and workflows
Skills & CertificationsCAD, machining, tooling design, certifications like CATIA or SolidWorksProcess improvement, Lean, Six Sigma, engineering degrees
Work EnvironmentMachine shops, manufacturing plants, R&D labsProduction floors, process planning areas, quality control
Industry UsageHeavy manufacturing, automotive, aerospaceElectronics, consumer goods, automotive

While both roles support manufacturing operations, Tooling Engineers focus on designing and maintaining the tools and equipment needed for production, whereas Manufacturing Engineers work on improving overall manufacturing processes. Both roles often collaborate closely to ensure efficient and high-quality production.

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Tooling Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Tooling Engineer job openings in Elgin, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $108,724 per year, or $52.3 per hour.

Tooling Engineer

Sandwich, IL • On-site

Pure Fishing
Sporting Product Manufacturing • 10K+ employees

5.3

Company rating: 5.3 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Paid breaks

Respectful managers

Uninterrupted breaks

Learn more about Pure Fishingexternal

Full-time

Posted 25 days ago

Job description

About Pure Fishing
Pure Fishing is a global leader in the fishing tackle industry, with a portfolio of iconic brands that includes Abu Garcia®, Berkley®, Fenwick®, Frabill®, PENN®, Pflueger®, Plano®, Savage Gear®, Shakespeare®, SpiderWire®, Ugly Stik®, and many more. The brands that came together to form Pure Fishing were founded by inventors and innovators responsible for many of the advancements in the fishing tackle industry that anglers worldwide benefit from today. Our team of industry-leading experts and our global network of operations and innovation hubs strive to find those next innovations and produce world-class products designed to delight our consumers, strengthen business for our customers, and build love for our brands globally.
But to us fishing is not just about business, it is about time shared with family and friends, for some the peace derived from time on the water or for others the thrill of the battle and satisfaction of the earned triumph, and for all that feeling you get with every catch. We are a passionate team hungry to win while dedicated to creating memorable experiences with our brands and products and helping anglers everywhere have more fun catching more fish. We want your next day on the water to be your best day on the water. At Pure Fishing we have high expectations for Execution, we strive to Empower our people every day, expect and encourage Authenticity.
Tooling Engineer
Position Summary
As a Plastics Tooling Engineer, you will design, develop, and optimize tooling solutions that support the production of high-quality plastic components. Working in a collaborative, onsite environment, you will partner closely with cross-functional teams to improve injection molding processes, enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and support safe, reliable operations. Success in this role requires strong blueprint-reading skills, attention to detail, and a proactive approach to problem-solving. Your contributions will have a direct impact on product quality, manufacturing performance, and continuous improvement throughout the operation.
What will you do:
  • Design and develop tooling solutions for plastic parts production, considering factors such as material properties, part design, and production requirements.
  • Collaborate with engineering, manufacturing, R&D, NPD, and quality teams to ensure tooling meets project specifications and quality standards.
  • Optimize existing tooling designs through continuous improvement initiatives and engineering changes to enhance efficiency, performance, and cost-effectiveness.
  • Drive improvements to existing tools by implementing engineering changes that increase operational efficiency, improve performance, and reduce costs.
  • Conduct tests and evaluations to validate tooling performance and identify areas for improvement.
  • Provide technical support and expertise to troubleshoot tooling issues during production.
  • Stay current on industry trends and advancements in plastics tooling technology to drive continuous improvement.
  • Coordinate with outsourced tool shops on mold design, fabrication, and testing to support new product launches and ongoing production needs.

The ideal candidate will have:
  • CAD Proficiency: Strong experience with CAD software such as SolidWorks and AutoCAD for designing tools, molds, and fixtures.
  • Technical & Manufacturing Knowledge: Ability to read and interpret blueprints and technical drawings, with knowledge of injection molding, CNC machining, casting, and related manufacturing processes.
  • Material Expertise: Understanding of tooling materials, including steel, aluminum, and plastics, and their performance in various manufacturing applications.
  • Problem-Solving & Analytical Skills: Ability to analyze complex technical challenges and develop effective, practical solutions.
  • Attention to Detail: Thorough approach to identifying and resolving design, material, and process issues before they impact production.
  • Demonstrated passion for developing and mentoring employees, particularly those early in their skilled trades careers, with a strong focus on coaching and supporting direct reports.
  • Project & Time Management: Demonstrated ability to prioritize work, manage multiple projects, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

Additional qualifications that will help you be successful in this role:
  • Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, Plastics Engineering, or a related field.
  • Minimum of 5 years' experience in tooling design and development, specifically in plastics manufacturing.
  • Proficiency in CATIA software for designing tooling and molds.
  • Strong knowledge of injection molding processes and tooling materials.
  • Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
  • Effective communication skills to collaborate with internal teams and external vendors.

Travel:
  • 10-20% travel may be required to support other company locations, vendors, and suppliers, including occasional international travel.

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