We are seeking a Tooling Engineer to lead the design and development of tooling, fixturing, and work-holding solutions that support machining and fabrication operations. This role plays a critical part in improving manufacturing performance through standardization, waste reduction, and practical problem solving. The ideal candidate is a hands-on engineer who works directly with the shop floor to develop solutions that are repeatable, efficient, and aligned with Lean manufacturing principles. **Core Responsibilities** - Design tooling, fixtures, and workholding solutions - Develop SolidWorks models and detailed fabrication drawings - Ensure tooling designs are manufacturable, accessible, and cost-effective - Define and standardize tooling and component selection - Develop and maintain tooling systems and standards (including tooling data structure and best practices) - Collaborate with machinists and CNC programmers during setup and production - Improve setup time, repeatability, and overall manufacturing efficiency **Lean & Continuous Improvement Responsibilities** - Drive reduction of waste in machining processes (setup time, motion, overprocessing, rework) - Develop standardized tooling and fixturing solutions to improve consistency and flow - Support setup reduction efforts (e.g., SMED principles) - Identify and implement improvements that increase throughput and reduce variability - Participate in root cause analysis and corrective actions related to tooling and fixturing - Promote a culture of continuous improvement through hands-on engagement in the shop **Shop Floor Engagement** - Spend regular, consistent time in the machine shop supporting builds and machining operations - Work directly with machinists during setup, prove-out, and troubleshooting - Observe real-world performance of tooling and refine designs accordingly - Act as a hands-on engineering resource to ensure practical, executable solutions **Required Qualifications** - Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field (or equivalent experience) - 4-7 years of experience in tooling, fixturing, or manufacturing engineering - Proficiency in SolidWorks - Strong understanding of machining and fabrication processes - Experience designing tooling and supporting machining operations - Ability and willingness to work directly in a shop environment on a regular basis **Preferred Qualifications** - Hands-on machining or fabrication experience - Experience with CNC processes and work holding strategies - Familiarity with tooling systems and data management (e.g., TDM concepts) - Experience applying Lean manufacturing principles (standard work, SMED, continuous improvement) - Experience improving setup time, cycle time, and process repeatability **What Success Looks Like** - Tooling and fixtures are reliable, repeatable, and easy to use - Standardized tooling approaches reduce variability across jobs - Measurable reductions in setup time and process waste - Strong alignment between engineering and shop execution - High credibility with machinists and manufacturing teams