Tooling and Equipment Design & Build Manager

Principal Responsibilities

• Lead and manage a multidisciplinary team responsible for tooling and equipment design, fabrication, assembly, and validation.
• Provide strategic direction for tooling and equipment capabilities aligned to product development and manufacturing needs.
• Oversee design and build of complex tooling, fixtures, and automated equipment systems.
• Ensure integration of mechanical, electrical, controls, vision systems, and safety systems (LOTO, guarding, light curtains, PLC-based controls).
• Partner with the Machine Shop Manager to align workflows including job intake, prioritization, tracking, and completion.
• Develop and implement systems for job ideation, origination, estimation, tracking, and reporting.
• Coordinate internal and external resources to ensure timely and cost-effective execution of projects.
• Drive design for manufacturability, reliability, safety, and scalability in all tooling and equipment solutions.
• Oversee lab/shop operations including space utilization, equipment maintenance, safety compliance, and material management.
• Lead troubleshooting and root cause analysis for tooling and equipment issues impacting development or production.
• Review and approve technical documentation including drawings, specifications, validation protocols, and reports.
• Establish and maintain strong partnerships with product design, product engineering, and process development teams.
• Provide technical leadership and guidance on machining processes, machine design, and automation strategies.
• Develop team capabilities through coaching, mentoring, and performance management.
• Manage budgets, capital planning, and resource allocation for tooling and equipment development.
• Interface with vendors and external machine builders to support equipment development and integration.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives across tooling, equipment, and workflow processes.
• Ensure compliance with quality systems, design controls, EH&S and regulatory requirements.
• Define and drive automation strategy to support transition from development to high-volume manufacturing.
• Lead vendor selection, qualification, and ongoing management for equipment design, build, and integration.
• Oversee implementation and scaling of automated equipment for high-volume production, including establishment of machine requirements, factory acceptance, installation, validation, and ramp-up.
• Champion a culture of safety, accountability, innovation, and company-first mindset.

  Education / Experience Requirements

  • Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or related technical field with 10+ years of relevant experience OR equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • Demonstrated experience in tooling, machining, and equipment design/build environments. Proven leadership experience managing technical teams and cross-functional initiatives.

  Specialized Skills / Other Requirements

  • Strong background in toolmaking, machining, and machine design.
  • Proficiency in CAD systems (SolidWorks preferred).
  • Knowledge of CNC machining, EDM, and fabrication processes.
  • Understanding of automation systems, PLCs, sensors, and controls integration.
  • Knowledge of safety systems including lockout/tagout, guarding, and light curtains.
  • Strong leadership, communication, and team development skills.
  • Experience with job tracking systems, ERP/MES tools, or similar workflows.
  • Ability to balance technical, operational, and business priorities.
  • Strong problem-solving and decision-making capabilities.
  • Knowledge of medical device design controls and regulatory requirements preferred.