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 optimize precision tooling, jigs, and fixtures for manufacturing processes. Analyze and troubleshoot tooling-related production issues, implementing effective corrective actions. Collaborate with production, design, and quality teams to ensure tooling meets product specifications and manufacturing requirements. Specify and select appropriate tooling materials, coatings, and manufacturing methods to enhance performance and longevity. Develop and implement preventative maintenance schedules and strategies for all tooling assets. Lead continuous improvement projects focused on tooling design, efficiency, and cost reduction. Manage tooling projects from concept through to production, including budgeting and timeline adherence. Recommended Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related technical field 3+ years of experience in tooling design, manufacturing, or maintenance Proficiency in CAD/CAM software (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD, Mastercam) Strong understanding of machining processes, tooling materials, and GD&T Proven ability to troubleshoot tooling issues, perform root cause analysis, and implement corrective actions Experience with lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement methodologies related to tooling Bonus Qualifications Experience with automation systems or robotics integration. Proficiency in advanced FEA or mold flow simulation software. Knowledge of additive manufacturing techniques for tooling applications. Certifications in Lean Manufacturing or Six Sigma methodologies. Job Titles That Should Apply Tooling Engineer, Tool Design Engineer, Die Design Engineer, Mold Design Engineer, Fixture Design Engineer, Tool Maker, Die Maker, Mold Maker, Tool and Die Maker, Manufacturing Tooling Engineer, Tooling Development Engineer, Jig and Fixture Engineer, Tooling Specialist, Precision 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.