Tool Design Engineer

Summary: The Tool Design Engineer will be accountable for designing new tooling details and improving existing ones. Their responsibilities include drafting blueprints, specifying tool requirements, and performing calculations to determine tool cost, materials, and dimensions. Additionally, they will communicate with suppliers to fabricate tooling details, monitor performance targets, manage cost budgeting, and implement and maintain a system to track spare tooling inventory levels. A proficient Tool Design Engineer strives to reduce tool breakdowns, minimize tool downtime, and lower maintenance costs.

Job Duties / Responsibilities:

• Design and Drafting:
  • Manage ECN’s (Engineering Change Notice) for required tooling changes.
  • Create detailed blueprints and specifications for new tooling details.
  • Collaborate with R&D teams to develop innovative tool designs.
  • Ensure compliance with industry standards and safety regulations.
• Cost Analysis and Optimization:
  • Perform cost calculations for tool fabrication.
  • Evaluate material options and recommend cost-effective solutions.
  • Continuously seek ways to reduce tooling expenses.
• Supplier Communication and Coordination:
  • Liaise with suppliers to fabricate tool components.
  • Monitor production timelines and quality control.
  • Maintain strong relationships with vendors.
• Performance Monitoring and Improvement:
  • Set performance targets for tooling efficiency.
  • Analyze tool breakdowns and implement preventive measures.
  • Collaborate with maintenance teams to minimize downtime.
• Inventory Management:
  • Develop and maintain a system for tracking spare tooling inventory.
  • Optimize stock levels to ensure uninterrupted production.
  • Implement best practices for tool storage and organization.
• Collaboration and Training:
  • Work closely with production teams to address tool-related challenges.
  • Provide training on proper tool handling and maintenance.
  • Foster a culture of continuous improvement.
• Adhere to design control procedures, general safety rules, company policies and procedures.

Education /Skills /Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
• Minimum 3 years of experience in tool design or related roles.
• Highly innovative with the ability to work on own initiative
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Strong problem solving skills
• Manufacturing experience
• Ability to apply statistical methods
• Experience with:
  • CAD (SolidWorks preferred)
  • Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerance
  • Data Analysis
  • Risk Analysis
  • Quality Management System (QMS)

Preferred Qualifications:

• Medical device experience.
• Financial analysis experience.
• Machining and prototype fabrication experience.
• Experience with functioning in a highly regulated environment with working knowledge of ISO 13485 and FDA requirements.
• Experience in designing components for plastic injection molding, extruding and metallic fabrication.
• Experience in various manufacturing technologies used in component subassemblies and final product assembly.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to lift materials of an average weight of 50 lbs.
• Able to stand for prolonged periods of time.
• Able to work a flexible schedule which may include overtime and weekends

Interplex Industries is a global supplier of custom interconnect and electric packaging solutions. Our diverse customer base includes automotive, telecom, industrial, Medical Lifescience and consumer electronics suppliers worldwide. Our technologies include stamping, molding, plating, etching, skiving, drawing and assembly of precision parts. The company has a strategic vision to expand its product development capabilities and is looking for the brightest and most creative individuals to accomplish this vision.