Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: Dynamics • Tolerance Analysis • ASME Standards

Tool Design

Term from Mechanical Engineering industry explained for recruiters

Tool Design is a specialized field within mechanical engineering that focuses on creating and developing the tools, fixtures, and equipment used in manufacturing processes. Think of it as designing the equipment that makes other products. Tool designers work on everything from simple cutting tools to complex molds and dies that shape metal parts. This role is crucial in manufacturing because well-designed tools lead to better quality products, faster production times, and lower costs. When you see terms like "tool and die design," "fixture design," or "jig design" in resumes, they're all referring to different aspects of tool design.

Examples in Resumes

Developed Tool Design solutions that reduced manufacturing time by 30%

Created precision Tool Designs for automotive component production

Led team in implementing new Tool Design and Tooling Design concepts for aerospace parts

Typical job title: "Tool Designers"

Also try searching for:

Tool Design Engineer Manufacturing Engineer Tool and Die Designer Mechanical Designer Process Tool Designer Tooling Engineer Manufacturing Tool Engineer

Where to Find Tool Designers

Professional Organizations

Online Communities

Job Resources

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you approach cost reduction in a tool design project?

Expected Answer: A senior tool designer should discuss analyzing material choices, simplifying designs, considering manufacturing processes, and balancing initial costs with long-term durability. They should mention experience with value engineering and optimization techniques.

Q: How do you manage multiple tool design projects simultaneously?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate project management skills, prioritization methods, team coordination, and experience with managing deadlines and resources across multiple projects while maintaining quality standards.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What factors do you consider when designing a new tool?

Expected Answer: Should mention material selection, manufacturing process requirements, cost considerations, ergonomics, safety factors, and maintenance needs. Should show understanding of practical manufacturing constraints.

Q: How do you ensure your tool designs are manufacturable?

Expected Answer: Should discuss collaboration with manufacturing teams, understanding of manufacturing processes, consideration of available equipment, and importance of clear documentation and specifications.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What basic safety considerations are important in tool design?

Expected Answer: Should be able to discuss basic safety features, ergonomic considerations, and standard safety guidelines that need to be incorporated into tool designs.

Q: What software tools do you use for tool design?

Expected Answer: Should be familiar with common CAD software and basic design tools, able to explain how they use these tools to create and document designs.