Manufacturing Engineer - CNC Tooling and Application

About the Role

We are looking for a hands-on CNC Tooling and Application Engineer with strong practical and technical expertise across HMC (Horizontal Machining Centers), VMC (Vertical Machining Centers), and CNC Turning / Turn-Mill platforms. This role sits at the intersection of process engineering, tooling selection, and shop-floor application support, ensuring machining processes are optimized for cycle time, tool life, quality, and cost.

Key Responsibilities

1. Select, design, and optimize cutting tools (inserts, holders, boring bars, live tooling, form tools) for HMC, VMC, and Turn-Mill operations based on part geometry, material, and tolerance requirements.
2. Develop and validate machining processes for new components : fixture concepts, tool paths, speeds/feeds, and cycle time estimation.
3. Troubleshoot tooling and process-related issues on the shop floor: tool breakage, chatter, poor surface finish, dimensional deviation, and tool life inconsistency.
4. Work closely with CAM programmers to review and optimize toolpaths (roughing, finishing, drilling, tapping, boring, threading, multi-axis turning).
5. Conduct tool trials and cost-per-component (CPC) analysis to identify tooling standardization and cost reduction opportunities.
6. Coordinate with tooling vendors (Sandvik, Kennametal, Iscar, Walter, Mitsubishi, etc.) for new tool development, trials, and technical support.
7. Support DFM (Design for Manufacturability) reviews with design/quality teams for new product introductions.
8. Maintain and update tooling databases, tool life records, and standard operating parameters (feeds, speeds, DOC) for recurring components.
9. Train and mentor CNC operators/programmers on tooling best practices, machine capability, and application techniques.
10. Support capacity planning and machine/process capability studies (Cp, Cpk) related to tooling performance.
11. Drive continuous improvement initiatives (Kaizen, lean tooling practices) to improve OEE and reduce tooling costs.

Required Qualifications

1. Diploma / B.E. / B.Tech in Mechanical, Production, Tool Engineering, or related field.
2. 6–8 years of experience in a CNC machining environment (job shop, auto components, aerospace, or general engineering manufacturing).
3. Strong practical knowledge of HMC, VMC, and CNC Turning/Turn-Mill machines and their tooling systems (VDI, BMT, capto, HSK, live tooling, Y-axis machining).
4. Working knowledge of CAM software (Mastercam, NX CAM, Esprit, or equivalent).
5. Sound understanding of GD&T, cutting tool metallurgy, coatings, and machining parameters for various materials (steel, cast iron, stainless steel, aluminum, superalloys).
6. Experience with tool management systems and tool presetting equipment.
7. Good analytical and problem-solving skills with a data-driven approach to process optimization.

Preferred Qualifications (Good to Have)

1. Prior experience working directly with tooling OEMs/vendors (application engineer role or close collaboration) on tool development or trials.
2. Exposure to 5-axis machining concepts and multi-axis toolpath strategies.
3. Familiarity with CNC controllers (Fanuc, Siemens, Heidenhain, Mitsubishi) at a parameter/programming level.
4. Basic understanding of fixture design and workholding solutions for multi-machine setups.
5. Basic proficiency in Excel/data analysis for tool life and cost trend reporting.

What We Offer

- Opportunity to work on diverse, high-precision components across industries.

- Direct exposure to leading tooling technologies and vendor partnerships.

- Career growth path toward Senior Manufacturing Engineer / Tooling Manager roles.

*Competitive compensation aligned with industry standards.