1

Tooling Manager Jobs in Appleton, WI (NOW HIRING)

Create, maintain, manage, and improve CNC programs and tooling setup sheets for the CNC production equipment. * Identify and participate in opportunities to improve processes and tools to reduce ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Tooling Manager information

See Appleton, WI salary details

$32.2K

$83.9K

$133.2K

How much do tooling manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for tooling manager in Appleton, WI is $83,888.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,800.00 and $105,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges a Tooling Manager faces when collaborating with production and design teams?

A Tooling Manager often navigates the challenge of balancing design requirements with manufacturability and cost constraints. Coordinating between production and design teams requires clear communication to ensure tooling solutions meet both quality standards and project timelines. Additionally, managing changes in product specifications or last-minute adjustments can add complexity, making strong organizational and problem-solving skills essential for success in this role.

What is the highest paying manager position?

In manufacturing and industrial settings, Tooling Managers can earn high salaries, especially at senior levels or in large companies, with top earners making over $120,000 annually. Higher managerial roles such as Plant Managers or Operations Managers typically have higher compensation, often exceeding $150,000 depending on industry, location, and experience. Advanced certifications and extensive experience can also lead to higher-paying opportunities within management roles related to tooling and production.

What engineering jobs pay $500,000?

Engineering roles such as senior petroleum engineers, aerospace engineers, and software engineering managers can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially with experience, advanced skills, and leadership responsibilities. High-paying engineering positions often require specialized expertise, advanced degrees, and sometimes work in high-demand industries like oil and gas, aerospace, or technology firms.

What is the difference between Tooling Manager vs Manufacturing Engineer?

AspectTooling ManagerManufacturing Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in engineering or manufacturing, with certifications in tooling or project managementRequires a degree in mechanical, industrial, or manufacturing engineering
Work EnvironmentOversees tooling departments, manages tooling design, maintenance, and procurement in manufacturing settingsFocuses on process improvement, production planning, and optimizing manufacturing operations
Industry UsageCommonly employed in automotive, aerospace, and heavy machinery industriesWidely used across various manufacturing sectors including electronics, automotive, and consumer goods

The Tooling Manager primarily manages tooling design, maintenance, and procurement, ensuring tools meet production needs. In contrast, the Manufacturing Engineer focuses on process optimization and production efficiency. Both roles require engineering backgrounds but differ in scope and responsibilities within manufacturing environments.

What is a Tooling Manager?

A Tooling Manager is a professional responsible for overseeing the design, production, maintenance, and management of tools, dies, molds, and related equipment used in manufacturing processes. They coordinate with engineering and production teams to ensure tooling meets quality and safety standards while optimizing efficiency and costs. Tooling Managers also supervise tool room staff, manage budgets, and implement continuous improvement strategies for tooling operations.

What jobs pay 500,000 a year in the US?

High-paying roles such as executive positions (CEOs, CFOs, COOs), specialized surgeons, and certain investment bankers can earn $500,000 or more annually. In the context of a Tooling Manager, such salaries are uncommon unless combined with executive responsibilities, profit sharing, or working in highly profitable industries; most Tooling Managers earn significantly less. Achieving this level typically requires extensive experience, advanced skills, and often leadership in large organizations or industries with high profit margins.

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

To thrive as a Tooling Manager, you need expertise in manufacturing processes, tool design, and project management, often supported by an engineering degree or equivalent experience. Familiarity with CAD/CAM software, ERP systems, and quality management standards is typically required. Strong leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills help coordinate teams and manage cross-functional projects effectively. These abilities ensure efficient tooling operations, high product quality, and timely project delivery in a competitive manufacturing environment.

What Does a Tooling Manager Do?

A tooling manager oversees the list or system that tracks tool data, information, storage location, or other logistics. While they may also be responsible for the production and maintenance of industrial tools, their duties often include gathering data and information on different tools and maintaining a system of storage that increases efficiency. This system should make the components needed to work on specific machines or assemblies easier to find. Qualifications for a career in tool management include a wide knowledge of industrial tools and how they work, as well as management experience and organizational skills.

What does a tooling manager do?

A tooling manager oversees the design, maintenance, and operation of manufacturing tools and equipment to ensure efficient production processes. They coordinate with engineering and production teams, manage tool inventories, and may require knowledge of CAD software and safety standards. Their role helps optimize manufacturing quality and productivity.
What are popular job titles related to Tooling Manager jobs in Appleton, WI? For Tooling Manager jobs in Appleton, WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Tooling Manager jobs in Appleton, WI look for? The top searched job categories for Tooling Manager jobs in Appleton, WI are:
What cities near Appleton, WI are hiring for Tooling Manager jobs? Cities near Appleton, WI with the most Tooling Manager job openings:
Infographic showing various Tooling Manager job openings in Appleton, WI as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $83,888 per year, or $40.3 per hour.
Operations Engineer Manager II

Operations Engineer Manager II

Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation

Appleton, WI • On-site

$67K - $91K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 8 days ago


Gulfstream Aerospace rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 181 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7th of 61 rated aerospace companies


Job description

Operations Engineer Manager II in  GAC Appleton


Unique Skills:

Our aircraft are industry leaders and so are our people. We're looking for talented, motivated people who are ready to do innovative work, and we offer exciting career opportunities worldwide.

 

Let your career take flight

Our aircraft are industry leaders and so are our people. We're looking for talented, motivated individuals who are ready to do innovative work, and we offer exciting career opportunities worldwide.

Gulfstream Aerospace Careers

Gulfstream employees benefit from a total rewards package that includes

  • competitive compensation
  • medical, prescription, dental and vision coverage starting on day 1
  • retirement savings plan 

Visit www.gulfstreambenefits.com to learn more about our benefits plans.


 

Education and Experience Requirements
Bachelor's Degree in Engineering or other closely related curriculum or an equivalent combination education and experience sufficient to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. 7 years experience in aviation maintenance, manufacturing or manufacturing engineering. 2 years supervisory, team lead or demonstrated project management experience required.. Experience credit will be considered for related advance degrees limited to 2 years for Masters Degree and 4 years for PhD in fields applicable to this job position. Position Purpose: Under moderate direction; manages, plans, and directs varied Operations Engineering and Industrial Engineering activities for a specific manufacturing business unit (MBU) to achieve corporate goals and objectives. This includes safety, quality, cost, and schedule objectives and budgets. Oversee multiple business unit projects, project engineering tasks and program management changes.
Job Description
Principle Duties and Responsibilities: Essential Functions:
  1. Plan and develop the Operations Engineering function for the MBU, leading the process optimization function and encompassing lean manufacturing philosophies and concepts to support zero defect objectives. Lead the implementation of lean manufacturing and/or materials initiatives.
  2. Provide subordinates with technical and management direction, and adequate training to ensure consistent quality and efficiency through job knowledge and experience. Create future leaders through mentoring, coaching and leadership development/philosophy.
  3. Develop, plan and implement MBU layout, process flow, tooling/equipment, material handling, and cost and quality improvements. Coordinate with internal/external organizations, disciplines to ensure Beyond the Shop floor practices are used to implement new product development installations .
  4. Oversee development of daily work planning for each defined manufacturing area as basis for generating department metrics for the shop and for the OE team.
  5. Analyze regular work performance reports from manual and computer generated information to manage individual performance in terms of area support. Oversee maintenance of accurate records/logs and computerized data on all work.
  6. Provides guidance and direction on career growth with employees .
  7. Develop and monitor budget requirements; control expenditures to meet approved budgets including direct/indirect salary, indirect non-salary and, capital expenditure.
  8. Monitor progress on all activities accomplished by personnel; prioritize workloads based on schedule and need.
  9. Ensure GAC and QIP policy is being practiced by all personnel; make recommendations and implement procedures to improve quality.
  10. Manage facilities master plans and oversee improvement projects and maintenance effectiveness of assigned area.
  11. Design and implement environmentally conscious plans and practices for MBU, provide a safe and healthy working environment for each MBU employee.
  12. Provide direction and guidance for capital investments that can reduce costs and improve quality.
  13. Actively support concurrent engineering initiatives to ensure smooth implementation of new product development.
  14. Ensures department(s) have adequate operations and industrial engineering support assigned areas.
Additional Functions:
  1. Provide leadership with ideas/suggestions for new technology/methodology that enable world class manufacturing and/or material performance. .
Perform other duties as assigned. Other Requirements:
  1. In-depth knowledge and experience with all aspects of manufacturing and industrial engineering including engineering configuration requirements, tooling design and use, quality, plant safety and Lean concepts and principles.
  2. Demonstrated leadership development.
This job requires one to be able to read, write, speak, and understand the English language.

Additional Information

Requisition Number: 234491

Category: Operations

Percentage of Travel: None

Shift: First

Employment Type: Full-time

Posting End Date: 10/01/2026 

Equal Opportunity Employer / Individuals with Disabilities / Protected Veterans

Gulfstream does not provide work visa sponsorship for this position, unless the applicant is a currently sponsored Gulfstream employee.

 Legal Information | Site Utilities | Contacts | Sitemap
Copyright © 2025 Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation. All Rights Reserved. A General Dynamics Company.
 #LI-TORI

Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation, a wholly-owned subsidiary of General Dynamics (NYSE: GD), designs, develops, manufactures, markets, services and supports the world's most technologically-advanced business jet aircraft


What Gulfstream Aerospace employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom