Launch Tooling Engineer

Job description

Position Overview We are seeking a highly motivated and technically driven Launch Tooling Engineer to support new product launches, tooling readiness, and manufacturing start-up activities within our automotive manufacturing facility. The Launch Tooling Engineer is responsible for coordinating tooling development, validation, implementation, and optimization activities to ensure successful program launches that meet safety, quality, delivery, and cost objectives. This position serves as a critical liaison between Engineering, Production, Tool Room, Quality, Program Management, Suppliers, and Maintenance teams to ensure all tooling systems are designed, validated, and production-ready prior to launch. The ideal candidate will possess strong knowledge of injection molds, tooling systems, APQP methodologies, process validation, and automotive manufacturing requirements. Duties and Responsibilities Lead tooling activities for new program launches from concept through production implementation. Coordinate tooling design reviews, manufacturing feasibility assessments, and supplier communications to ensure tooling meets production requirements. Manage tooling timelines, launch milestones, and program deliverables to support successful product launches. Oversee tooling procurement, fabrication, qualification, and installation activities for new manufacturing programs. Coordinate mold tryouts, tooling runoff events, validation activities, and production readiness assessments. Support APQP, PPAP, FMEA, and launch documentation requirements related to tooling and manufacturing processes. Collaborate with Product Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Quality, Maintenance, and Production teams to ensure tooling is optimized for safety, quality, and productivity. Monitor tooling performance during launch phases and implement corrective actions to address quality, cycle-time, process, or reliability concerns. Lead root cause analysis and problem-solving efforts related to tooling design, mold functionality, dimensional concerns, and production issues. Coordinate engineering changes, tooling modifications, and continuous improvement activities throughout launch and production phases. Support mold qualification, capability studies, validation plans, and process acceptance criteria. Ensure tooling meets customer specifications, quality standards, and manufacturing requirements before production release. Work closely with tool shops, equipment suppliers, and external vendors to ensure timely completion of tooling deliverables. Develop and maintain launch tooling documentation, validation records, maintenance recommendations, and tooling standards. Track tooling performance metrics, launch readiness indicators, and corrective action plans. Support capacity planning, tooling optimization, spare component requirements, and long-term tooling strategies. Participate in design reviews and manufacturability assessments to improve overall product and tooling performance. Drive continuous improvement initiatives focused on tooling reliability, process capability, quality improvements, and cost reduction. Ensure compliance with company safety policies, OSHA requirements, IATF 16949 standards, and customer-specific requirements. Perform other related duties as assigned Education and Experience Requirements Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Tool Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related technical field required. Minimum 5-8 years of experience supporting tooling, molding, manufacturing engineering, or launch engineering within an automotive manufacturing environment. Experience managing tooling development and implementation for new product launches. Strong knowledge of plastic injection molds, tooling systems, manufacturing processes, and tooling validation requirements. Experience working directly with tooling suppliers, mold makers, machine builders, and production teams. Proven experience supporting APQP, PPAP, launch management, and automotive quality systems. Experience with tooling troubleshooting, process optimization, and root cause analysis. Familiarity with tooling maintenance strategies and lifecycle management preferred. Preferred Qualifications Strong understanding of automotive manufacturing launch processes and program management methodologies. Knowledge of plastic injection molding processes, mold design, tooling construction, and process validation. Experience supporting mold trials, production launches, capability studies, and customer validation activities. Working knowledge of IATF 16949, APQP, PPAP, FMEA, MSA, SPC, and Control Plans. Proficiency with CAD software, tooling design reviews, and manufacturing engineering documentation. Strong project management, scheduling, and cross-functional leadership skills. Ability to diagnose and resolve tooling, mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, and manufacturing process issues. Excellent communication and supplier management capabilities. Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, ERP systems, and project tracking tools. Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or continuous improvement experience preferred. Physical Requirements Ability to stand, walk, and move throughout a manufacturing environment for extended periods. Ability to occasionally lift and move up to 40 pounds. Ability to work around production equipment, tooling systems, molds, presses, and industrial machinery. Ability to support tooling tryouts, launch events, and troubleshooting activities on the manufacturing floor. Occasional travel to tooling suppliers, customer locations, or corporate engineering facilities may be required. Perks of Working with Us Competitive Salary Three (3) Weeks of Vacation (prorated the first year) 401(k) Match up to 4% Comprehensive Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance Holiday Plant Shut-down & Employee Engagement Company Events Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Career Growth Opportunities within a Global Automotive Manufacturer Exposure to Advanced Manufacturing Technologies and New Product Launches