Tool and Product Engineer

The Tool & Product Engineer is responsible for driving the successful development and launch of deep drawn and metal-stamped products from concept through production. This role combines expertise in cost estimating, tooling design, product development, and manufacturing processes to ensure products are designed for quality, manufacturability, and cost competitiveness. Working closely with sales, product management, manufacturing, suppliers, and customers, the engineer develops accurate cost estimates for new business opportunities, evaluates tooling and process requirements, and provides technical leadership throughout the product development cycle. The position requires a strong understanding of sheet metal forming, deep drawing, progressive and transfer die stamping, material selection, and design for manufacturability principles.

Essential Job Responsibilities

• Estimate new product part costs and associated tooling or equipment investments required to produce parts.
• Design tools to be built internally or outsource with appropriate vendors.
• Direct and train Tool Designers to design tools with design best practices.
• Support quality and production departments in new product introductions and cost reduction projects.
• Develop part production processes to meet quality and customer requirements.
• Manage tool build process, which includes: tool designer/builder selection, entering purchase requisitions, approval of tool designs, tool tryout and validation.
• Engage with other Vollrath teams as necessary based on product or processes.
• Provide manufacturing support for other departments as needed for cost reduction and process improvement efforts.
• Travel as needed to customers and vendors to follow up on projects.
• Identify and implement process improvements that result in cost reductions and/or better-quality consistency.
• Learn and use metal processing simulation software to enable product development in quoting, implementation and production phases.
• Maintain tool database with relevant tool descriptions and ownership.

Supervisory Responsibilities/Direct Reports

• No direct reports.

TRAVEL

• Up to 10% travel may be required.

Qualifications

• Minimum of degree in Tool design or Journeyman Toolmaker with CAD-based Tool Design and Project Management experience.
• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering preferred.
• Minimum of five years of experience in Tool and Die design relating to Metal Forming and Manufacturing.
• Ten years of experience in Metal Forming Tools and Manufacturing preferred.
• CAD experience, preferably SolidWorks.
• Tool and Die knowledge.
• Understanding of inspection/measurement equipment.
• Problem-solving skills.
• Ability to react to manufacturing needs or modify project processes as they arise.
• Ability to manage several projects at different stages of development.
• Extensive knowledge of manufacturing processes to accurately estimate product and tooling costs.

WORKING CONDITIONS- Work time is mainly in an office environment, with some work in production areas required when developing processes. Some lifting required when working with new tool and product development, generally- Personal Protective Equipment required when in Manufacturing facilities. Cultural Requirements Treat All People with Respect: Our intention is to recognize the diverse experiences, styles, and backgrounds of others, treating everyone with dignity. We aim to foster an inclusive culture where all team members can be their authentic selves and feel safe in voicing their perspectives.

Take Ownership: Our intention is to match our actions with our words, building trust with others. We are united in taking responsibility for the success of Vollrath as a whole.

Life Beyond Work: Our intention is to care for the well-being of every individual we engage with, understanding them as a whole person. We strive to keep people mentally and physically safe, sending each person home in a condition to build a fulfilling life beyond work. We encourage balance, allowing our colleagues to pursue their passions.

Empower Action: Our intention is to create a workplace where every member can thrive in their growth and contributions with excitement, confidence, and psychological safety. We support each team member with resources and tools to strengthen collaboration and performance.

Commitment to Those Who Count on Us: Our intention is to drive innovation and practical solutions through understanding the needs of our coworkers, customers, owners, and communities. We are dedicated to proactively addressing those needs and delivering results.