Tool Room Supervisor
Position Overview
The Model Shop constructs critical master models used to produce prototype and production metal and injection-molded parts. In this role, you will lead a highly collaborative tooling department. You will oversee the creation of high-precision master patterns, core boxes, and tooling used in stamping, injection molding, laminates, vacuum forming, and compression molding facilities.
Key Responsibilities
- Operations Leadership: Direct daily toolmaking activities and workflow, including Design & Modeling, Advanced Tooling & Specialty builds, Mill Room operations, CNC Programming, and Quality Control
- Schedule Management: Track and maintain the overall tool production schedule in ERP (Epicor) to ensure on-time delivery
- Team Mentorship: Provide technical direction and guidance to a collaborative team of 7 tool and model makers
- Administration: Interface with coordinating departments and manage administrative tasks like payroll hours tracking and adjustments
- Quality Assurance: Evaluate tool repairs, support engineering changes, handle "first shot" support, and perform final tool inspections before shipping
Qualifications & Requirements
- Education: Completion of a Patternmaking Apprenticeship or a degree in Mechanical Engineering/Manufacturing
- Supervisory Experience: 3 to 5 years of experience in a leadership or supervisory role
- Technical Experience: At least 5 years of hands-on model/pattern work within automotive or aerospace manufacturing. Experience must span prototype-to-production, vacuum forming, lay-ups, and display builds
- Software Expertise: Advanced proficiency in VISI (CAD/CAM/CAE). Proven skill modifying and creating models or molds using FDM, SLS, and SLA data
- Machining & Materials: Proven expertise in traditional woodworking and toolroom machinery (band saws, table saws, drill presses, etc.). Extensive experience with composites, thermoforming plastics, and laminating resins
- Precision Standards: Ability to work to tight tolerances of +/- 0.005” or better. Strong blueprint reading and basic GD&T understanding
Preferred Skills & Experience
- Practical Mindset: A common-sense approach to applying technical skills to diverse, fast-moving projects
- Problem Solving: Highly analytical with the tendency to ask appropriate questions for the project
- Execution: Strong communication skills and absolute discipline in executing projects on time
