Tooling Manager

Advanced Structural Technologies•Oxnard, CA

2h•$95,000 - $135,000•Onsite

About The Position

Advanced Structural Technologies (AST), a manufacturer of forged, flow-formed, and machined products for the aerospace, defense, and automotive industries, is seeking a Tooling Manager to lead and coordinate tooling operations across its machining, forging, and spinning departments. The position oversees tooling procurement, scheduling, inventory, cost tracking, and maintenance standards, collaborating with Engineering, Machine Shop Management, and Production to ensure tools are delivered on time, well maintained, and accurately tracked. The role supports production efficiency through organized, optimized tooling practices.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Manufacturing Technology, Industrial Management, or a related field.
2–5 years of experience in a manufacturing or tooling management role.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office and ability to create and manage detailed tracking reports.
Experience with ERP systems such as JobBOSS, NetSuite, or Microsoft Dynamics.
Knowledge of tooling practices for CNC, forging, and spinning operations.
Strong organizational, communication, and time management skills.
Ability to work cross-functionally and drive results through collaboration and accountability.
Understanding of cost tracking, inventory control, and production workflows.
Hands-on, detail-oriented approach and ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment.

Nice To Haves

Manufacturing or tooling management experience in metalworking or machining environments.

Responsibilities

Coordinate tooling-related activities between the Machine Shop, Engineering, and Production departments.
Develop and maintain Tooling Status Schedules and Tooling Detail Schedules for CNC and conventional tooling, providing visibility across management teams.
Issue and manage tooling work orders, including cost collection, tracking, and reporting in accordance with AST financial policies.
Collaborate with Engineering on timely ordering of tooling steel and raw materials, and maintain a Tool Steel Inventory Report.
Establish and maintain standard tooling inventories and replenishment systems for the Forge, CNC, and Spin departments.
Oversee the organization, maintenance, and labeling of tooling to ensure readiness and minimize delays.
Support tool crib management, including tooling lifecycle tracking, retirement, and reordering strategies.
Maintain cleanliness, safety, and orderliness in all tooling areas, including the conventional tooling department.
Participate in continuous improvement initiatives related to tooling design, procurement, and process flow.