A Tool Crib Engineer manages and optimizes a manufacturing facility's tooling inventory. They ensure production lines have the right equipment to minimize downtime while controlling costs. This hybrid engineering-logistics role balances tool design, procurement, inventory control, and technical troubleshooting.
Responsibilities
A Tool Crib Engineer manages and optimizes a manufacturing facility's tooling inventory. They ensure production lines have the right equipment to minimize downtime while controlling costs. This hybrid engineering-logistics role balances tool design, procurement, inventory control, and technical troubleshooting.
Core Responsibilities
- Inventory Management: Track, stock, and issue tooling and consumables using Crib Management Software. Establish minimum/maximum stock levels to prevent shortages.
- Tooling Optimization & Design: Analyse existing tools, implement standardized cutter lists, and design custom tooling solutions to support manufacturing processes.
- Quality Assurance: Inspect returned tools for wear or damage using presetting equipment (e.g., ZOLLER). Decide if tooling should be reground, refurbished, or scrapped.
- Vendor & Budget Management: Collaborate with purchasing departments to source new tooling. Negotiate prices, manage repair warranties, and track tooling expenses.
- Troubleshooting: Support the production floor by performing root-cause analysis on tooling failures and process bottlenecks
- NPI : Will be responsible to support on NPI including audit & preparation across the manufacturing.
Job Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Tooling/Die Engineering, or related field.
- Minimum 7–10 years of experience in tooling development, machining, or precision engineering.
- At least 3–5 years in a leadership or managerial role.
- Strong background in: CNC machining (3-axis, 4-axis, 5-axis), Precision weldment, Jig and fixture design, (TIG/MIG/Orbital welding), Semiconductor or high-precision manufacturing environment (advantage)
- Proficiency in CAD/CAM tools (SolidWorks, NX, Mastercam, AutoCAD).
- Strong understanding of machining processes, cutting tools, materials, GD&T, and tolerancing.
- Knowledge of welding fixtures, weld distortion control, heat treatment, and metrology.
- Experience with FAI, PPAP, SPC, and capability studies.
- Familiarity with root cause analysis (5Why, Fishbone, DMAIC).
- Strong leadership and communication skills, effective problem-solving and decision-making, detail-oriented and able to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
