PROGRESSIVE TOOLING ENGINEER

About the role

The Progressive Tooling Engineer is responsible for the machining, maintenance, repair, inspection and improvement of progressive press tools, dies, moulds and other precision tooling used in the manufacturing process. The role requires strong hands-on technical expertise in precision machining and tooling, with the ability to achieve tight dimensional tolerances, troubleshoot tooling issues and provide technical guidance and training to toolmakers and apprentices.

Key responsibilities

• Manufacture and machine progressive press tools and tooling components, including forming, bending, piercing tools, punches, die plates, punch holders.
• Machine components for moulding, forging and die-casting tools, including inserts, cavity plates, core plates and side cores
• Perform precision machining of complex profiles, angles and intricate tooling components
• Achieve required dimensional accuracy and tight tolerances, including micro-level precision
• Perform and/or oversee CNC machining activities for precision tooling components
• Carry out precision and surface grinding to meet required dimensional and surface-finish specifications
• Perform EDM/Wire EDM machining where required for complex and high-precision tooling
• Conduct preventive and corrective maintenance of progressive tools, dies and related tooling
• Troubleshoot tooling problems and identify root causes of defects or machining issues
• Perform dimensional inspection using precision measuring instruments

About you

• Diploma or Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Tool & Die, Precision Engineering or a related technical discipline
• Minimum 5 years of relevant experience in progressive tooling, tool & die, precision machining or a similar manufacturing environment
• Strong CNC machining experience, particularly CNC milling and complex-profile machining
• Good hands-on experience in precision/surface grinding
• Experience in EDM/Wire EDM is strongly preferred
• Strong knowledge of tool & die manufacturing, maintenance and repair
• Experience with precision measuring equipment and dimensional inspection
• Ability to work with tight/micron-level tolerances
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and tooling specifications
• Strong technical and problem-solving skills with high attention to detail and precision.