Manufacturing Engineer IV

Role Summary

We are seeking a highly organized, self-directed Manufacturing Tooling & TDM Specialist to help establish control, consistency, and ownership of cutting-tool data within our CNC programming organization.

The primary focus of this role is to develop, maintain, and improve cutting-tool content within our Tool Data Management (TDM) environment, with the goal of making TDM the single source of truth for approved cutting-tool data. The individual will work closely with CNC programmers, machinists, manufacturing engineers, local tooling experts, and suppliers to ensure cutting tools are accurately defined and available for use in the programming environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Own and maintain cutting-tool data content within TDM, ensuring records are accurate, complete, consistent, and usable by CNC programmers.
• Review existing cutting-tool definitions used by programmers and help transition agreed-upon tooling into TDM as the approved source of truth.
• Create and edit cutting-tool and toolholder geometry and accurately define complete tool assemblies, including required attributes, naming, classifications, and associated data.
• Maintain approved feeds, speeds, and other cutting parameters in TDM based on released part-qualification or metallurgical test results.
• Serve as the primary programming/data-side contact for implementation of new cutting tools. Track requests from identified need through technical validation, TDM implementation, and availability for programmer use.
• Communicate with requesting programmers when new or revised tooling is correctly implemented and ready for use.
• Stay closely connected with CNC programmers and machinists to understand tooling needs, current practices, and shop-floor challenges.
• Own the day-to-day integrity of established TDM naming and classification structures while recommending improvements when appropriate.

Qualifications & Professional Competencies

• Candidates with experience working with TDM Systems will be given priority and is preferred
• Candidates with experience working with Siemens NX CAM will be given priority and is preferred
• Experience with comparable tool-management systems will also be considered.
• Approximately 5–8 years of relevant manufacturing experience is preferred; candidates with fewer years but strong applicable skills and practical experience will be considered.
• Strong practical knowledge of cutting tools used in milling and turning applications.
• Good understanding of complete cutting-tool assemblies, including cutters, inserts, holders, adapters, extensions, interfaces, and assembly compatibility.
• Practical, shop-focused mindset with an understanding that the objective is not simply to maintain a database, but to provide accurate tooling information that supports effective CNC programming and manufacturing.
• Ability to create and modify 3D cutting-tool and toolholder geometry.
• Working knowledge of feeds, speeds, cutting-tool application, and machining fundamentals.
• Relevant machining, manufacturing, tooling, CNC, or equivalent technical experience is valued.
• Highly detail-oriented and organized, with a strong commitment to data accuracy.
• Self-directed and comfortable working in an environment where processes and standards are still being developed.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively with programmers, machinists, technical experts, suppliers, and leadership.
• Comfortable questioning inconsistent practices or inaccurate data in a constructive, professional manner.