Tooling Engineer at Howmet

The Tooling Engineer position is responsible for coordinating new and replacement tool builds involving core dies, fixtures, and auxiliary tooling used in the manufacture of ceramic cores for the investment casting process. Additional primary responsibilities will include overall plant tooling management consisting of die and fixture life tracking and the facilitation of cost effective, timely, tooling replacement and qualification. This position will interface with engineers, managers, and personnel at all levels both internal to Howmet and with external tooling suppliers and OEM manufacturers.

• Responsible for maintaining Tooling Management Database and coordinating the release of new and replacement tool specifications, builds, approvals, and designs through Alcoa Howmet casting facilities. This will include issuing status reports (including tool history and projected life) and coordinating/facilitating communication meetings resulting in tooling project management plans.
• Initiates tooling project schedules; coordinates and implements the release of engineering changes and/or updates.
• Assists engineers and tool designers to contribute ideas that ensure tools will function properly with minimal maintenance.
• Trouble shoots tooling with engineering and tooling personnel as needed.
• Obtains cost estimates for repairs, both internally and by outside contractors.
• Solicits/reviews quotes, recommends and initiates actions.
• Responsible for the management of tool CAD data.
• Conduct cross functional New Product Introduction (NPI) meetings resulting in design definition and specification. Responsible to review and approve new and replacement tool builds with the consensus of the team, inspect final tooling builds at tooling supplier prior to shipment.
• Works on continuous improvement efforts on existing tools with the Tooling Process Owner oversight.
• Work in a safe and efficient manner
• Maintain a high attendance record
• Travel may be required
• Perform other work related duties as necessary

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

• B.S. degree in an applicable engineering discipline OR 20+ years' experience
• Minimum of 2-3 years experience preferably in tool & die design and/or injection molding.

PREFFERED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Experience in managing tooling development programs from start to finish.
• Experience with die build and repair.
• Ability to think and work in 3-D space (i.e. be able to look at a part and determine what it will take to process the die).
• Working knowledge of operating injection molding machines and processes
• Ability to work hands-on; must be able to work with job related materials
• Possess problem solving and statistical analysis skills.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS/EQUIPMENT USED: Computer, phone, calculator, 50-75% of day spent in the manufacturing areas and lab areas working with technicians and hourly work force.

SKILLS AND ABILITIES: Strong interpersonal and communication skills, ability to work effectively in a team environment, Six Sigma (optional), Lean Manufacturing (optional), Ability to work with a wide range of cross functional teams, Strong problem solving and creative thinking skills, Understanding of basic chemistry principles