Tooling Engineer - Traverse City Area

Tooling Engineer | Traverse City, MI

Salary Range: $71,000 - $110,000 depending on experience

Are you a seasoned professional with a passion for designing and improving tooling for manufacturing processes? The Pivot Group is committed to fostering meaningful relationships and supporting community growth. We are collaborating with leading companies in Traverse City seeking Tooling Engineers to lead and enhance their operations.

The Opportunity

We partner with manufacturers across Traverse City seeking Tooling Engineers who want more than a lateral move. These companies hire intentionally, and we connect them with professionals ready for roles that fit.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and validate new tooling, jigs, fixtures, and molds for manufacturing processes.
• Analyze and troubleshoot tooling failures or performance issues, implementing corrective actions.
• Optimize existing tooling for improved efficiency, quality, and extended lifespan.
• Collaborate with production, design, and maintenance teams to ensure tooling meets operational requirements.
• Manage tooling preventative maintenance schedules and repair activities.
• Specify and procure tooling components, materials, and equipment from vendors.
• Conduct cost analysis and feasibility studies for tooling projects.

Recommended Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related technical field.
• 3-5 years of experience in tooling design, manufacturing, or maintenance.
• Proficiency in CAD/CAM software (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD) and strong understanding of GD&T.
• Demonstrated knowledge of various manufacturing processes such as machining, stamping, or injection molding.
• Ability to troubleshoot complex tooling issues and implement effective corrective actions.
• Experience with tool life cycle management and continuous improvement methodologies.

Bonus Qualifications

• Experience with advanced simulation software (e.g., FEM, MoldFlow, AutoForm).
• Lean Six Sigma certification or experience in continuous improvement methodologies.
• Project management experience leading complex tooling development projects.
• Knowledge of automation and robotics integration with tooling systems.
• Proficiency in a secondary manufacturing process such as injection molding, die casting, or stamping.

Job Titles That Should Apply

Tooling Engineer, Tool Design Engineer, Manufacturing Tooling Engineer, Die Design Engineer, Mold Design Engineer, Jig and Fixture Engineer, Tooling Specialist, Production Tooling Engineer

Why Pivot Group

The Pivot Group 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.

If you're ready to take the next step in your career and connect with a firm that values fit over speed, we invite you to reach out. The Pivot Group offers resources to support your search—market insights, resume feedback, and interview preparation. As our partnerships grow, we'll reach out with opportunities aligned with your goals. Thank you for considering this approach to career advancement.