Manager, Tooling

SUMMARY

The Tooling Manager is responsible for leading and coordinating all Toolroom activities, both internal and external, including tool builds, preventative maintenance programs, and new technology implementation. This role develops strategic direction while maintaining day-to-day oversight of team performance, tooling schedules, supplier partnerships, and cost controls. The Tooling Manager supports lean manufacturing initiatives, builds a continuous improvement culture, and ensures that all tooling functions exceed expectations for safety, quality, delivery, and cost.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Provide leadership and oversight of daily Toolroom operations across all shifts.
• Lead strategic planning and execution for new tooling builds and repairs, internally and externally.
• Create, implement, and communicate delivery schedules for all tooling activities.
• Own and manage ASPC’s tooling standards, design protocols, and CAD data systems.
• Develop and manage reliable external tooling suppliers and outsourced projects.
• Maintain proactive Tooling PM systems using internal data and performance metrics.
• Oversee internal and external tool design review processes and sampling adjustments.
• Lead continuous improvement in tooling methods, equipment, and documentation.
• Serve as the single point of contact for all tooling-related updates during launch.
• Support quote development for tooling costs and provide technical advice when needed.
• Define emergency tool repair protocols and coordinate off-shift escalation paths.
• Ensure cross-functional collaboration with Engineering, Production, Launch, and Maintenance.
• Develop and manage the Toolroom as a cost center, ensuring alignment with quoted budgets.
• Actively participate in leadership and crisis management meetings.
• Train, mentor, and coach Tooling Engineers, Die Makers, Apprentices, and support staff.
• Promote standardized work, 5S, lean manufacturing, and CI methodology.
• Manage staffing levels, capacity planning, and resource sharing across 4SL and PP tools.
• Uphold ASPC safety, environmental, and policy compliance standards.

COMPETENCIES

• Honesty & Integrity
• Planning & Organizational Agility
• Analytical Problem Solving
• Proactive Leadership
• Perseverance and Ownership
• Commitment to ASPC’s Mission

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

• Journeyman Tool & Die Maker certification required.
• Minimum 15 years of manufacturing leadership experience required, preferably in metal stamping or progressive die systems.

TECHNICAL SKILLS & ABILITIES

• Proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, AS400.
• Familiarity with lean tools and CI methodologies.
• CAD proficiency preferred (SolidWorks or equivalent).
• Understanding of tool design, blueprint revision systems, and PDM vaulting systems.
• Experience with CMMS programs and managing tooling databases.

SOFT SKILLS

• Strong coaching, mentoring, and leadership presence.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Adaptable, coachable, and reflective with high emotional intelligence.
• Positive attitude with a focus on continuous growth and development.
• Solution-focused and results-driven.

PHYICAL DEMANDS

• Required to stand, walk, use hands, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl.
• Must frequently lift or move up to 25 pounds and occasionally lift up to 100 pounds.
• Must have close vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.
• Must be able to speak and hear clearly in a manufacturing environment.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

The work environment characteristics described below are representative of those a team member may encounter while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Regular exposure to moving mechanical parts.
• Noise levels in the work environment are typically moderate although hearing protection is required.

Benefits:

• Medical - 1st of the month following hire date.
• Dental, Vision, Short Term Disability, & Life Insurance
• Free ASPC Health and Wellness Clinic - located in Grand Haven
• $100 annually for safety boots
• Prescription safety glasses program
• Paid Holidays & your birthday is a paid holiday.

Automatic Spring Products Corporation is an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, marital status, protected veteran status, or disability status. We are committed to the full inclusion of all qualified individuals and will take the necessary steps to ensure reasonable accommodations are provided for those with disabilities throughout the application and interview process, as well as during employment.