Tooling Manager

About the Role

We are looking for an experienced Tooling Manager to lead the tooling function for precision aerospace machining projects. The role demands strong expertise in CNC VMCs, turning, milling, and multi-axis machining (3-axis, 4+1 axis, 5-axis), along with proven leadership in tooling development, optimization, and process improvement. The Tooling Manager will be responsible for building a world-class tooling strategy to meet the stringent quality and close-tolerance requirements of aerospace components.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the

  design, development, and implementation

  of tooling solutions, fixtures, and jigs for aerospace machining.
• Manage and optimize tooling requirements across

  CNC VMCs, milling, and turning machines (3-axis, 4+1 axis, 5-axis machining centers)

  .
• Establish and monitor

  tooling standards, tool life management, and cost optimization strategies

  .
• Drive

  DFM (Design for Manufacturability)

  initiatives in collaboration with design, production, and R&D teams.
• Review and approve

  CAD/CAM-based tooling and fixture designs

  for critical aerospace projects.
• Ensure compliance with

  AS9100, NADCAP, and customer-specific aerospace quality requirements

  .
• Troubleshoot complex tooling issues and provide

  technical guidance to engineers and operators

  .
• Develop and mentor the

  tooling engineering team

  , building expertise in high-precision aerospace manufacturing.
• Implement

  continuous improvement projects

  to reduce cycle times, improve accuracy, and enhance productivity.
• Coordinate with vendors and suppliers for

  tool procurement, validation, and cost negotiations

  .

Required Skills & Competencies

• Strong knowledge of

  multi-axis machining (3-axis, 4+1 axis, 5-axis)

  in aerospace projects.
• Expertise in

  tooling, fixture design, and precision machining processes

  .
• Proficiency in

  CAD/CAM software

  (NX, CATIA, Creo, Mastercam, or equivalent).
• Excellent knowledge of

  GD&T, aerospace machining standards, and close tolerance manufacturing

  .
• Strong leadership, team management, and decision-making skills.
• Ability to collaborate effectively across

  production, quality, and R&D teams

  .
• Exposure to

  lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, or TPM practices

  will be an added advantage.

Qualifications

• B.Tech / M.Tech in Mechanical, Manufacturing, or Aerospace Engineering.
• 1015 years of experience in

  tooling and precision machining

  , with at least 35 years in a

  managerial role

  .
• Prior experience in

  aerospace machining (fixtures, tooling, close-tolerance parts)

  is mandatory.