Roles and Responsibilities
Tool Design & Development
Design cutting tools (drills, milling cutters, reamers, inserts) for automotive components.
Optimize geometry, coating, and edge preparation for different materials (steel, stainless steel, aluminum).
Collaborate with process engineering for tool-path and machining strategy alignment.
In-house Tool Manufacturing
Manage and improve internal tool production processes including:
CNC tool grinding (e.g., SAACKE, TTB or equivalent)
Edge preparation (brushing, drag finishing, polishing) and tool coating coordination
Ensure tooling quality, repeatability, and lead-time control.
Tool Localization & Supplier Development
Drive localization strategy for cutting tools to reduce cost and lead time.
Identify, develop, and qualify local tool suppliers (including grinding and coating vendors).
Ensure localized tools meet performance, quality, and durability requirements.
Lead trials, benchmarking, and validation of local alternatives vs. global standards.
Collaborate with procurement and global teams to implement localization roadmap.
Process Optimization & Cost Control
Analyze tool performance (tool life, wear mechanisms, failure modes).
Drive tooling cost reduction initiatives (e.g., regrinding, reuse strategy, supplier optimization).
Support productivity improvement (cycle time, tool change frequency, scrap reduction).
Problem Solving & Troubleshooting
Lead root cause analysis for machining issues (burrs, tool breakage, surface defects, instability).
Implement corrective actions using structured methods (8D, 5Why, Fishbone).
Cross-functional Collaboration
Work with production, quality, R&D, and external suppliers.
Support new product introduction (NPI) and process development.
Interface with global teams for best practice sharing.