Tooling Engineer - East Lansing Area

the-pivot-group-careers; East Lansing (MI); On-site; USD 72,000 - 111,000; Full time

Job summary

The Pivot Group Network is seeking an experienced Tooling Engineer in East Lansing, MI. Salary range: $72,000 - $111,000 depending on experience.

The role focuses on designing and improving tooling for manufacturing processes and involves collaborating with design, manufacturing, and quality teams. Responsibilities include tooling design for new product introductions, process analysis to identify needs, project management, and preventive maintenance.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical or Manufacturing Engineering.
• 5+ years in tooling design, manufacturing, and maintenance in production.
• Proficient in CAD/CAM software for tool design and simulation.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop tooling for new product introduction and improvements.
• Analyze manufacturing processes to identify tooling needs and solutions.
• Collaborate with design, manufacturing, and quality teams to meet specs.
• Manage tooling projects from concept through implementation with budgets.
• Perform root cause analysis on tooling failures and implement corrective actions.
• Conduct regular maintenance and calibration of tooling.
• Evaluate materials and methods for tooling components.

Skills

5+ years tooling experience

Manufacturing process knowledge

Root cause analysis

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical/Manufacturing Engineering

Tools

SolidWorks

AutoCAD

Mastercam

Job description

Tooling Engineer | East Lansing, MI

Salary Range: $72,000 - $111,000 depending on experience

Are you a detail-oriented professional with a passion for designing and improving tooling for manufacturing processes? The Pivot Group Network, a West Michigan manufacturing-focused recruiting group, is dedicated to fostering meaningful relationships and supporting career advancement. We are collaborating with leading companies in East Lansing seeking experienced Tooling Engineers.

We are building our network of talent in this field across West Michigan and the broader manufacturing region Pivot Group Network serves. Our partner companies may or may not have an immediate opening for this exact role today, but we actively look for skilled professionals in the regions where they operate. If there is alignment now or in the near future, we reach out.

The Opportunity

We are collaborating with multiple companies in East Lansing seeking experienced Tooling Engineers. These organizations value long-term fit and are looking for professionals who bring both skill and alignment. By joining our network, you gain access to opportunities tailored to your goals.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and develop tooling for new product introduction and existing product improvements.
• Analyze manufacturing processes to identify tooling needs and recommend solutions for efficiency and quality.
• Collaborate with design, manufacturing, and quality teams to ensure tooling meets specifications and production requirements.
• Manage tooling projects from concept through implementation, including budgeting and timelines.
• Perform root cause analysis on tooling failures and implement corrective actions.
• Conduct regular maintenance and calibration of tooling to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
• Evaluate and select appropriate materials and manufacturing methods for tooling components.

Recommended Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related field.
• 5+ years of experience in tooling design, manufacturing, and maintenance within a production environment.
• Proficient in CAD/CAM software (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD, Mastercam) for tool design and simulation.
• Strong understanding of various manufacturing processes, materials, and their impact on tooling design (e.g., stamping, injection molding, casting).
• Demonstrated ability to analyze tooling failures, implement corrective actions, and optimize tooling performance for cost and efficiency.

Bonus Qualifications

• Experience with CAD/CAM software for mold design and manufacturing (e.g., SolidWorks, Catia, Mastercam).
• Familiarity with various manufacturing processes beyond injection molding, such as stamping, casting, or machining.
• Knowledge of advanced materials science and their application in tooling for high-performance or specialized products.
• Certifications in relevant areas like GD&T, lean manufacturing, or specific tooling technologies.
• Experience with simulation software for mold flow analysis or structural integrity of tooling.

Job Titles That Should Apply

Tooling Engineer, Manufacturing Engineer, Process Engineer, CNC Programmer, Jig and Fixture Designer, Mold Designer, Die Designer, Tool Designer, Production Engineer, Mechanical Design Engineer

Why The Pivot Group Network

The Pivot Group Network was founded by manufacturing professionals who've been on both sides of the hiring process. Our clients are strategic—they partner with us because they want real insight into their roles and the people filling them, not a stack of resumes. We focus on match-driven placements built around what actually matters: Commute, Compensation, Culture, and Career trajectory.