Job Description

Tooling Engineer - Purchasing
Location: Bowling Green, KY

Position Overview

A leading automotive manufacturing division in Bowling Green, KY is seeking a Tooling Engineer within its purchasing group. This role serves as the technical subject matter expert for outside vendor-built tooling, conducting die design reviews, managing external suppliers, and ensuring tooling project success. Note: This position requires up to 50% travel, often on short notice.

Key Responsibilities

• Act as primary technical contact for outside tooling vendors and procurement teams.
• Evaluate die designs, press tonnage requirements, clearances, tolerances, and steel selections.
• Oversee APQP launch activities and tool build progress with external suppliers.
• Interpret engineering drawings, CAD models, and GD&T specifications.
• Travel to vendor facilities (up to 50%, including short-notice trips) to audit build progress and resolve technical issues.

Required Qualifications

• Minimum 7 years of automotive metal stamping tooling experience.
• Minimum 7 years of overall manufacturing experience.
• Strong knowledge of stamping dies, press tonnage, steel selection, and tolerances.
• Proficient in GD&T print reading and CAD modeling software.
• Experience managing external tooling vendors and APQP timelines.
• Must be comfortable with up to 50% travel, including short-notice travel under 24 hours.

Preferred Qualifications

• Journeyman Tool & Die background.
• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or technical discipline.
• Experience in automotive purchasing or supplier quality management.

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