Tooling Manager

HGC Industries•Indianapolis, IN

6d•$110,000 - $120,000•Onsite

About The Position

HGC Industries is seeking a hands-on Tooling Manager to lead the strategy, performance, and growth of the tooling department. This role involves partnering with Engineering, Production, Quality, and Maintenance to improve tooling performance, reduce downtime, and support continuous improvement. The ideal candidate is a collaborative leader who enjoys building high-performing teams and driving results. HGC Industries is a worldwide leader in designing and manufacturing gaskets, sealing surfaces, and stamping, with a mission to create high-quality products and services that meet complex manufacturing challenges. Employees are the foundation of HGC's success, fostering a diverse and collaborative team environment.

Requirements

Proficient mathematical skills, including applying basic math skills to solve more complex problems, often involving multi-step calculations and reasoning.
Skilled in root cause analysis and hands-on problem-solving of tooling and die-related issues.
Ability to read blueprints and identify non-conforming products.
Ability to manage complex projects.
Basic skills in Microsoft Office tools, including Word and Excel.
Excellent time management skills and the ability to efficiently manage priorities and tasks based on importance.
Adaptability skills to effectively manage demands, frequent changes, delays, or unexpected events.
Ability to work self-sufficiently to ensure accuracy and quality of tasks.
Ability to navigate and resolve internal or external situations effectively and resourcefully.
High School Diploma/GED
5+ years of tool and die experience
5+ years of experience in a manufacturing facility

Nice To Haves

3+ years of experience in automotive manufacturing
Certified in Manufacturing CNC equipment
Tool and Die Maker Trade Certifications
Forklift Operator Certification
National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS) Certification

Responsibilities

Supervise and coordinate all rework and repair activities for steel tooling using in-house equipment, including manual mill, manual lathe, surface grinder, and standard hand tools.
Ensure work is completed safely and efficiently, in accordance with established quality requirements.
Review and interpret customer blueprints to verify tooling accuracy and compliance; provide clarification, coaching, and technical support to team members on blueprint interpretation.
Lead troubleshooting efforts for machine and tooling issues at the point of use; assist technicians in identifying root causes and drive implementation of corrective and preventive actions.
Partner with Quality, Engineering, and Maintenance leadership to support and execute continuous improvement initiatives; identify opportunities to streamline processes, reduce downtime, and improve tooling performance.
Oversee the maintenance and accuracy of tooling records.
Ensure effective use of the ERP system for full traceability, proper staging, and status updates for all tooling; monitor data integrity and coach employees on correct ERP processes.
Set priorities, allocate tasks, and manage workflow across cross-functional teams to meet production requirements and ensure timely completion of assignments.
Participate in and contribute to internal design reviews for new products, providing insight on tooling feasibility, resource requirements, and long-term performance expectations.
Build and maintain strong working relationships with internal departments; promote a collaborative, positive work environment; and support team development through coaching, feedback, and knowledge sharing.
Monitor team performance and development, conducting regular check-ins, identifying training needs, and ensuring adherence to company policies, SOPs, and safety standards.
Support staffing activities, including interviewing, onboarding, training, performance evaluations, and corrective action when necessary.
Ensure compliance with all safety, quality, and regulatory requirements, model best practices, and hold team members accountable for maintaining a safe work environment.
Perform other duties as assigned to support departmental and organizational goals.