Plastic Molding Technology leverages its three strategic locations to provide highly engineered plastic injection molded and thermoformed parts for automotive, telecommunications, medical device, renewable energy, and industrial customers. With in-house engineering expertise, mold design, and automated technologies for superior quality, PMT is a flexible and accessible partner when you can't afford any errors.
Role Description:
The Sr. Tooling Manager is responsible for the design, development, and maintenance of injection molding, thermoforming, and extrusion tooling used in the manufacturing process. This role requires a strong understanding of injection molding principles, thermoforming principles, and extrusion principles, along with tooling design, and project management skills. The engineer collaborates with cross-functional teams to ensure the successful implementation of new tooling and the optimization of existing tools. The Sr. Tooling Manager will lead a small team of Tooling Shop Supervisors.
What you'll do:
Tooling Design and Development
Design and develop molds / die and related tooling components, considering factors such as part design, material properties, and manufacturing requirements
Utilize computer-aided design (CAD) software to create 2D and 3D models, perform simulations, and generate engineering drawings
Conduct feasibility studies and design reviews to assess tooling concepts, identify potential issues, and propose appropriate solutions
Collaborate with internal teams and external suppliers to ensure tooling designs meet project requirements, quality standards, and cost targets
Tooling Optimization and Maintenance
Perform regular inspections and evaluations of existing tooling to identify areas for improvement, such as cycle time reduction, defect prevention, and increased productivity
Troubleshoot tooling-related issues, analyze root causes, and implement corrective actions to minimize downtime and optimize production efficiency
Develop and implement preventive maintenance programs for injection molds and tooling components, including cleaning, lubrication, and repair activities
Collaborate with production and maintenance teams to provide technical support and training related to tooling operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting
Project Management
Lead tooling projects from concept to completion, ensuring adherence to project timelines, budgets, and quality standards
Coordinate with internal stakeholders, including product designers, manufacturing engineers, and quality assurance, to define project requirements and specifications
Evaluate and select external suppliers for tooling fabrication, manage the procurement process, and oversee tooling trials and validation activities
Monitor project progress, identify potential risks or delays, and implement contingency plans to ensure timely completion of tooling projects
Continuous Improvement
Stay updated on the latest advancements in injection molding technology, tooling materials, and manufacturing processes.
Identify opportunities for process optimization, cost reduction, and quality improvement through the application of new techniques or tooling innovations.
Participate in cross-functional teams or committees focused on process improvement initiatives and contribute expertise in tooling design and engineering.
Team Management
Lead / Mentor and Evaluate a small team of Tool Room Supervisors who are involved with the production of new molds and dies, repair existing tooling, perform engineering changes, and preventative maintenance.
Other tasks as assigned
What we're looking for:
Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, manufacturing engineering, or a related field
Solid knowledge and experience in injection molding tooling design and development
Proficiency in CAD software, such as SolidWorks, AutoCAD, or similar tools
Strong understanding of injection molding principles, including part design considerations, material properties, and processing parameters
Familiarity with various mold types, such as hot runners, multi-cavity molds, and complex mold geometries
Knowledge of tooling materials, surface finishes, and heat treatment processes
Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills, with the ability to troubleshoot tooling-related issues effectively
Project management skills, including the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet deadlines
Strong communication and collaboration skills to work effectively with cross-functional teams and external suppliers
Attention to detail, with a focus on quality and continuous improvement
Experience with Lean manufacturing principles and practices is a plus