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Tooling Project Manager Jobs in Waterloo, IA (NOW HIRING)

... • Manage tooling projects from concept through build and tryout • Collaborate with machinists, welders, inspectors, engineers, and suppliers • Conduct design reviews and provide technical ...

Tool Designer

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$34 - $48/hr

... • Manage tooling projects from concept through build and tryout • Collaborate with machinists, welders, inspectors, engineers, and suppliers • Conduct design reviews and provide technical ...

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Manufacturing Engineer

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$35.90 - $41.90/hr

Support manufacturing and distribution processes, quality improvement, tooling and tool design ... Demonstrated project management and continuous improvement success. Education: * Bachelor's degree ...

Manufacturing Engineer

Waverly, IA · On-site

$67K - $87K/yr

Design manufacturing methods, tooling, fixtures, and workholding solutions that improve ... Strong analytical, troubleshooting, project management, and communication skills. * Experience with ...

Bonus: familiarity with Linear, Notion, Amplitude, or similar product tooling Why Join * Real ... AI isn't a side project here - it's core to how we build. You'll use AI tools daily to move faster ...

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Tooling Project Manager information

See Waterloo, IA salary details

$83.8K

$100.1K

$132.1K

How much do tooling project manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for tooling project manager in Waterloo, IA is $100,114.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $91,200.00 and $109,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Tooling Project Manager do?

A Tooling Project Manager oversees the planning, development, and implementation of tools and equipment used in manufacturing or production processes. They coordinate with engineering, procurement, and manufacturing teams to ensure tooling projects are delivered on time, within budget, and meet quality standards. Their responsibilities often include managing project timelines, budgets, resources, and resolving any technical or logistical challenges that arise during the tooling lifecycle. Effective communication and strong project management skills are essential for success in this role.

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

To thrive as a Tooling Project Manager, you need expertise in project management, manufacturing processes, and tooling design, often supported by a degree in engineering or a related field. Familiarity with CAD software, project management tools like MS Project or Jira, and relevant quality standards or certifications (such as PMP or Six Sigma) is typically required. Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving abilities help in coordinating cross-functional teams and managing client expectations. These skills ensure successful project delivery, cost control, and high-quality tooling outcomes in a competitive manufacturing environment.

How does a Tooling Project Manager typically collaborate with cross-functional teams during a project lifecycle?

As a Tooling Project Manager, you will work closely with engineering, manufacturing, procurement, and quality assurance teams to ensure that tooling projects meet technical specifications, deadlines, and budget constraints. Regular coordination meetings, progress updates, and problem-solving sessions are common, as is facilitating clear communication between all stakeholders. You'll often act as the bridge between design engineers who specify requirements and the manufacturing teams who use the tools, ensuring alignment and quickly addressing any issues that arise. Effective collaboration and stakeholder management are key to project success in this role.

What is the difference between Tooling Project Manager vs Manufacturing Engineer?

AspectTooling Project ManagerManufacturing Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering, PMP or similar certifications often preferredBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical, Industrial, or Manufacturing Engineering
Work EnvironmentProject-based, coordinating tooling development and installationProduction floor, process optimization, and equipment design
Industry UsageManufacturing, automotive, aerospace, and tooling companiesManufacturing plants, product development, and process improvement

The Tooling Project Manager focuses on overseeing the planning, execution, and completion of tooling projects, ensuring timely delivery and quality. In contrast, a Manufacturing Engineer concentrates on designing and improving manufacturing processes and equipment. Both roles require engineering backgrounds but differ in scope and daily responsibilities.

What job categories do people searching Tooling Project Manager jobs in Waterloo, IA look for? The top searched job categories for Tooling Project Manager jobs in Waterloo, IA are:
Infographic showing various Tooling Project Manager job openings in Waterloo, IA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 27% Full Time, 65% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $100,114 per year, or $48.1 per hour.
Tool Designer

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Job Title: Tool Designer
Client: Heavy Machine Manufacturing Company
Location: Waterloo, IA 50703
Duration: 24 Months (Possible Extension/Conversion)
Shift: 1st Shift (6:00 AM - 2:30 PM, OT Likely)

Key Responsibilities
• Design and develop manufacturing tooling, fixtures, gauges, assemblies, and equipment
• Create 3D models and detailed 2D manufacturing drawings
• Support machining, fabrication, welding, and assembly operations
• Apply GD&T and engineering standards to tooling designs
• Coordinate tooling design, procurement, and implementation activities
• Manage tooling projects from concept through build and tryout
• Collaborate with machinists, welders, inspectors, engineers, and suppliers
• Conduct design reviews and provide technical guidance
• Support manufacturing process improvements and lean initiatives
• Troubleshoot tooling and manufacturing issues and implement solutions
• Manage external tooling vendors and suppliers
• Ensure revision control, documentation accuracy, and drawing standards compliance
Required Skills
• Tool design experience
• Creo or Solid Modeling (SolidWorks, Creo Parametric)
• 3D CAD modeling and 2D drafting
• GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing)
• Tooling, fixture, and gauge design
• Manufacturing process knowledge
• Fabrication and machining methods
• Engineering drawing interpretation
• Problem-solving and troubleshooting
• Project coordination and communication skills
Preferred Skills
• C++ programming
• Python programming
• SQL knowledge
• Project Management experience
• Supply Management/Purchasing experience
• Lean Manufacturing exposure
• Vendor/Supplier coordination
• Process improvement experience
Ideal Background
• Tool Designer
• Tooling Engineer
• Fixture Design Engineer
• Manufacturing Engineer (Tooling)
• Mechanical Design Engineer
• Tool & Die Designer
• Product Design Engineer (Manufacturing)
• CAD Designer - Manufacturing
Education
• Engineering Degree preferred (Mechanical, Manufacturing, Industrial, or related field)
• Recent graduates considered if they have internships and strong Creo/Solid Modeling experience
• 5+ years of Tool Design experience highly preferred
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