What does a Tooling Engineer do?
Published 3 min read
A tooling engineer is responsible for the design and development of tools, dies, jigs, fixtures, and other types of equipment used in manufacturing processes. They work closely with production engineers to ensure that the equipment meets the specific needs of the production process.
Tooling Engineer job duties include:
- Design and develop new tooling and fixtures to support production
- Improve existing tooling and fixtures to increase efficiency and reduce cost
- Work with design engineers to ensure that new products can be manufactured effectively
- Select appropriate materials, finishes, and heat treatments for tooling
- Specify tolerances for machined parts and assemblies
- Generate detailed drawings and instructions for manufacturing
- Manage tooling projects from concept through delivery
- Perform root cause analysis of tooling failures and implement corrective actions
- Train production personnel on proper use of tooling
- Maintain records of tooling designs, modifications, and maintenance
Tooling Engineer Job Requirements
A tooling engineer is responsible for the design, construction, and maintenance of the tools and machines used in manufacturing. They must have a strong understanding of physics and mechanics, as well as experience in engineering and manufacturing. A bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering is typically required, and many employers prefer candidates with certification from the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME).
Tooling Engineer Skills
- CAD
- CAM
- CNC
- Machining
- Welding
- Metalworking
- Blueprints
- Tooling
- Prototyping
- Quality Control
- Troubleshooting
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How to become a Tooling Engineer
A tooling engineer is responsible for the design, construction, and maintenance of the tools used in manufacturing. They work with a variety of materials, including metals, plastics, and composites.
The first step to becoming a tooling engineer is to obtain a bachelor's degree in engineering. Many tooling engineers have a background in mechanical engineering, but other engineering disciplines can be beneficial as well. After completing an undergraduate program, it is recommended that aspiring tooling engineers complete an internship or cooperative education program to gain experience in the field.
Once you have obtained your degree and experience, you can begin to look for entry-level positions in tooling engineering. Many tooling engineers start their careers working in manufacturing plants or machine shops. As you gain experience, you may move into management positions or become a consultant.
If you are interested in becoming a tooling engineer, there are many resources available to help you get started. The American Society of Tooling Engineers offers certification programs and hosts conferences and events throughout the year. There are also many online resources that provide information about job openings, salary information, and career advice.
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