HPDC Tooling Designer

Kohler Co.

3d•Onsite

About The Position

Under the general supervision of the Tool Room Engineering Manager, this position is responsible for the design of high-pressure die-casting (HPDC) molds, CNC fixtures, assembly fixtures, and high-complexity tooling required by manufacturing operations. The role ensures that all designs meet performance, manufacturability, durability, and maintenance requirements, while supporting the strategic objective of reducing mold design lead time and increasing annual mold output capacity. This position is also accountable for implementing design standards, providing technical support during machining and mold validation, and driving innovation through advanced engineering tools and continuous improvement initiatives.

Requirements

3–5 years of experience in: HPDC mold design
Tooling and fixture design for machining and assembly
CAD modeling and drafting (NX, Creo, SolidWorks, etc.)
GD&T, DFM/DFA principles
Knowledge of machining processes, tool steels, heat treatment, and cooling layouts
CAD proficiency is required (NX preferred).

Nice To Haves

Mold flow or thermal simulation (desired)
Experience with simulation tools (Moldflow, MAGMA, or equivalent) is a plus.
Familiarity with ERP systems and engineering documentation workflows is desired.

Responsibilities

Develop complete 3D and 2D designs for HPDC molds, CNC fixtures, and assembly tooling.
Ensure all tooling designs meet functional, dimensional, thermal, and manufacturability requirements.
Create and maintain CAD libraries, standard components, templates, and design guidelines.
Standardize design practices to ensure consistency, quality, and design efficiency.
Reduce design lead time through concurrent engineering, design reuse, and process optimization.
Collaborate closely with machining, assembly, foundry, PVD, and production teams to ensure seamless tool manufacturing and implementation.
Support CNC programmers and tool room supervisors during machining and mold assembly.
Participate in mold try-outs, collect feedback, and implement design adjustments as required.
Provide technical troubleshooting in cases of mold defects, premature wear, or performance deviations.
Integrate advanced tools such as simulation (flow/thermal/structural), additive manufacturing, and FEA to improve design performance.
Review and update design documentation, BOMs, tolerances, GD&T, and engineering change records.
Support cost-reduction efforts through standardization, material optimization, and design simplification.
Participate in TIER meetings and cross-functional reviews as required.
Perform other duties or assignments as directed by the Tool Room Engineering Manager.
Comply with the Health and Safety roles and responsibilities established for this position.