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Tooling Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

The Tooling Machinist I is responsible for operating a wide variety of machine tools, setup grinders, lathes, mills and other equipment as required. Support new tooling for new product introductions ...

Build the Future with Us - EquipmentShare is Hiring a Director of Tooling At EquipmentShare, we're not just filling a role - we're assembling the best team on the planet to build something that ...

Build the Future with Us - EquipmentShare is Hiring a Director of Tooling At EquipmentShare, we're not just filling a role - we're assembling the best team on the planet to build something that ...

Tooling Tech

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

$24 - $26/hr

Tooling Tech Position Description: * Must be able to set-up and line out all Roll Fed and inline equipment in the prescribed amount of time with the prescribed material. * Must be able to work with ...

Inspector - Tooling and Parts

Nashville, TN · On-site

$22.75 - $29/hr

INSPECTOR - TOOLING amp; PARTS Location: Nashville, TN Company: NWI Nashville, LLC Status: Full-time, on-site Occupation Summary This occupation requires the inspection of all materials and parts ...

3101 Tooling Products - Engr Tooling Design Position Summary: An engineer in Work Holding Engineering (WHE) Group at The Gleason Works will design the components and assemblies necessary to hold all ...

3101 Tooling Products - Engr Tooling Design Position Summary: An engineer in Work Holding Engineering (WHE) Group at The Gleason Works will design the components and assemblies necessary to hold all ...

Tooling Tech Position Description: * Must be able to set-up and line out all Roll Fed and inline equipment in the prescribed amount of time with the prescribed material. * Must be able to work with ...

You will do injection mold tooling repairs and preventative maintenance (PM) * You will work independently as the internal tooling department for molding * You will repair and/or make any parts to ...

You will do injection mold tooling repairs and preventative maintenance (PM) * You will work independently as the internal tooling department for molding * You will repair and/or make any parts to ...

Press Engineer

Smyrna, TN · On-site

$55K - $64K/yr

You will support new model launches, tooling optimization, and continuous improvement initiatives in a fast-paced, highly automated manufacturing environment.Qualifications * Required Experience: 3-5 ...

Tooling Machinist 2nd Shift

Franklin, TN · On-site

$20.25 - $27.75/hr

The Tooling Machinist is responsible for producing, repairing, and maintaining precision tooling and components using manual and CNC machining equipment to support manufacturing operations and ...

Showing results 21-40

Tooling information

See Tennessee salary details

$14

$21

$30

How much do tooling jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for tooling in Tennessee is $21.36, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.21 and $24.66 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is tooling?

Tooling jobs involve designing, creating, maintaining, and repairing the tools, dies, molds, jigs, fixtures, and other devices used in manufacturing processes. Professionals in this field ensure that production equipment operates efficiently and accurately, contributing to the quality and consistency of finished products. Tooling roles can include toolmakers, tool designers, and tooling engineers, all of whom work closely with production teams to optimize manufacturing operations and reduce downtime.

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 a solid background in mechanical engineering, precision machining, and tool design, typically backed by a relevant engineering degree or technical certification. Familiarity with CAD software, CNC machinery, and quality control systems is essential for designing and producing effective tooling solutions. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and collaboration skills help you excel in troubleshooting and optimizing tooling processes. These competencies ensure the efficient production of high-quality tools, supporting manufacturing productivity and minimizing downtime.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in tooling, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in tooling often encounter challenges such as keeping up with rapid advancements in manufacturing technology, ensuring the precision and durability of tools, and managing tight production deadlines. Addressing these challenges involves continuous learning, collaborating closely with design and production teams, and adopting rigorous testing and maintenance protocols. Leveraging new software tools for design and simulation can also help streamline workflows and reduce errors, making it easier to meet quality and efficiency standards.

What is the difference between Tooling vs Machining?

AspectToolingMachining
Primary FocusDesign, fabrication, and maintenance of tools and equipment used in manufacturing processesCutting, shaping, and finishing materials using machines
Skills & CertificationsBlueprint reading, tool design, CNC programming, certifications in tooling or manufacturing technologyMachine operation, precision measurement, CNC machining, certifications in machining or manufacturing
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, tool rooms, workshopsMachine shops, manufacturing facilities, production lines

Tooling professionals focus on creating and maintaining tools that enable manufacturing, while machining specialists operate machines to shape materials. Both roles are essential in manufacturing, often working closely but with distinct responsibilities.

Do toolmakers make good money?

Toolmakers typically earn competitive wages that vary by experience, location, and industry. Skilled toolmakers with certifications and proficiency in CAD and machining often have higher earning potential, with many earning above average salaries for manufacturing trades.

What are the most commonly searched types of Tooling jobs in Tennessee?

The most popular types of Tooling jobs in Tennessee are:

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Tooling jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Tooling job openings:

Infographic showing various Tooling job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 1% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,423 per year, or $21.4 per hour.

MFG Salaries - Tooling - Tooling Engineer

nasg

Portland, TN

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

Come grow with us! We are seeking a Tooling Engineer at our TNN2 facility in Portland, TN.  

Your success is our success.

Since 1978, North American Stamping Group has grown into a leading Tier II automotive supplier with eight manufacturing facilities, two technical centers and approximately 1,000 team members across North America. As a family-owned company, we combine nearly five decades of experience with advanced engineering, metal stamping, welding and automated assembly capabilities to manufacture critical components for the seating, emissions and chassis markets.

At NASG, our strength comes from our people. We invest in training, development and advancement opportunities that allow team members to build meaningful, long-term careers. Whether you are beginning your career or bringing years of experience, you will have the opportunity to learn, contribute and grow with a company that is manufacturing strength and engineered to perform.

Join our team and help build what comes next.


GENERAL SUMMARY

 Work with the Leaders to develop and maintain efficient and reliable tooling processes to the Production Department, on-time to the schedule, that meet or exceed the minimum quality requirements while working within a set budget. Troubleshoot any problems that are presented during production or on the bench. Serves as back up in the absence of Tooling Manager for all Tool and Die makers.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

  • Work from tool room schedule to ensure that production tooling and equipment is ready to meet customer requirements.
  • Work within the toolroom and in the press department to ensure tools are operating at peak efficiency.
  • Delegate troubleshooting and die maintenance responsibilities in a clear and concise manner.
  • Assist Toolmakers / Apprentices and toolroom staff to make quality and tooling related decisions for long term solutions.
  • Consistently address problems and make / implement solutions to improve efficiencies, process and product flow, safety and quality.
  • Work closely and co-operatively with the other Managers and Team Leaders on day-to-day issues.
  • Fill in all reports properly and completely.
  • Report all necessary quality, production, or safety problems to the Tooling Manager.
  • Must have the ability to be on the job during normal business hours.
  • Ability to establish tracking system to grade all tooling vendors for quality and delivery and document all findings in logbook.
  • Must have the ability to document changes to include detail prints and/or procedures to dies and track the results as die repairs, modifications and improvements are made.
  • Must have strong inter-personal skills to allow clear communication.
  • Must be able to maintain assigned group of dies. This will include all aspects from initial die design review to the quality of the parts being produced.
  • Adequately stock the tool crib with spare parts, using a computer to track stock and always organize the tool crib in a fashion to ensure available stock of tooling components.
  • Responsible for quoting and purchasing replacement details, according to budget.
  • Purchase spare parts, die sections, supplies, etc., for tool crib at "best buy" conditions.
  • Incoming inspection of all tooling entering the plant to include die details, shop supplies.
  • Establish quarterly goals and objectives with the Tooling Manager.
  • Continuous Improvements will be driven by tooling cost reductions, by improving usage or lower price without sacrificing quality.
  • Be involved in continuous improvement of the tooling, (i.e., coatings, different metals)
  • Available for overtime and training as required.
  • Must be able to work within the budget allowed for the area of responsibility they are assigned.
  • Willing to accept other additional job duties from next level leader.

BENEFITS

  • Employees become eligible for Insurance after 30 days of employment. These insurances include: Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Disability, AD&D, Voluntary Accident and Critical Illness, Employer Paid Basic Life and AD&D – NASG provides all Full-Time eligible employees with Employer-Paid Life and AD&D insurance in the amount of 1x annual base salary. This is provided by your employer at no cost to you.
  • 401(k) Program
  • Paid holidays
  • Paid Time Off

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS/REQUIREMENTS

Education:

  • High School Diploma or GED equivalent required.
  • Bachelor’s degree in related field preferred.
  • Completed Apprenticeship Program preferred.
  • Certified Toolmaker or 5 years’ experience in Tool and Die field.

Experience:

  • Certified Tool and Die Maker or relevant experience.
  • Self-motivated, self-directed, and able to make and meet specific goals in the Tooling Department
  • Willing to learn or possess computer skills including, Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and CAD
  • Minimum 5 years Tool and Die maker.
  • Experience at an OEM and/or Tier 1/II supplier to automaker (preferred).
  • Basic AutoCAD and 3-D modeling software experience.

Language Skills:

  • Must be able to clearly speak, read, write, and understand the primary language (English) used in the workplace.

Computer/Software Skills:

  • Demonstrated basic computer skills Outlook, Excel, Word.
  • Experienced at using AutoCAD and 3-D modeling software.

Training:

  • IATF16949 / ISO14001 / toolmaker baseline training
  • TQPS Continuous Improvement training
  • Mistake Proofing Philosophy, Forklift Certification
  • Blueprint / GD&T
  • Project Management
  • Overhead Crane Certification

WORK ENVIRONMENT/CONDITIONS

 Plant:

  • Various types of manufacturing environments that include but not limited to: Stamping, Welding, Assembly, Grinding, Wash, Receiving, Shipping, Sorting.

Travel:

  • Minimal

Physical Requirements:
 

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by a team member to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
 

The primary job functions involve the ability to stand while operating assembly equipment for extended periods of time. While performing the duties of this job, the associate is required to talk, see, and hear. The associate must be capable of walking, sitting, and standing for extended periods of time and is able to lift frequently 35pounds and occasionally required to lift, move, and carry up to 75 pounds. 

 DISCLAIMER
This job description is intended to identify the general nature and level of work performed by associates within this classification, as well as certain essential job functions.  It is not intended, and should not be interpreted, as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of associates assigned to this job.  Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice, based on operational needs.  To qualify for this job, however, an associate must be able to perform its essential functions with or without reasonable accommodation.  Under no circumstances may this job description be construed as altering the at-will nature of the employment relationship between NASG and any associate.

 EOE/M/F/D/V