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Tool Designer

ATACO Steel Products Corporation, Cedarburg, WI, United States


Job title: Tool Designer (Monday – Thursday 9 hours, half day Fridays)

Job Classification: Exempt

Reports To: Tool Room Manager

Position Summary The Tool Designer is responsible for designing, developing, and improving tooling used in metal stamping, fabrication, and secondary operations. This role works closely with engineering, production, and tool & die to ensure tooling is efficient, manufacturable, and supports high-quality, cost-effective production.

Key Responsibilities

Design progressive, transfer, and/or line dies for metal stamping applications

Develop tooling for brake forming, welding fixtures, and secondary operations

Create detailed 3D models and 2D drawings using CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, DraftSight)

Collaborate with engineers and production teams to optimize part manufacturability

Support quoting by providing tooling concepts, cycle time input, and cost estimates

Troubleshoot existing tooling and implement design improvements to reduce downtime and scrap

Work with Tool & Die Makers to ensure designs are practical and buildable

Maintain accurate documentation, revision control, and tool records

Participate in design reviews and continuous improvement initiatives

Qualifications

Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Tool Design, or related field (or equivalent experience)

3+ years of tooling design experience in a manufacturing environment (stamping preferred)

Proficiency in CAD software (SolidWorks strongly preferred)

Strong understanding of metal forming, materials, and tolerancing

Ability to read and interpret complex part prints and GD&T

Preferred Qualifications

Experience with progressive die design

Familiarity with laser cutting, brake forming, and welding processes

Knowledge of ERP systems (e.g., Syteline) for documentation and job tracking

Experience working in a union manufacturing environment

Problem-solving and root cause analysis

Attention to detail and accuracy

Strong communication and cross‑functional collaboration

Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines

Office‑based design work with regular interaction on the shop floor

Exposure to manufacturing environment including noise, machinery, and moving equipment

Benefits Health, Dental, Vision, HSA, Life & AD&D, Short- and Long-Term Disability, 401(k) with company match, vacation, holidays, education assistance, and gainsharing.

Additional Information All employees are expected to support and uphold the Values, Mission, and Vision Statements of the Company.

The duties described above represent the major elements of this position but are not intended to be all‑inclusive. Other responsibilities may be assigned as necessary to meet business needs. Qualifications and job requirements may change over time. This job description may be revised with approval from Human Resources.

ATACO Steel Products Corp is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other status protected by federal, Wisconsin, or local law.

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