PTME Tooling Engineer

As a Tooling Engineer at Ford, you will be a pivotal expert within the Powertrain Manufacturing Engineering (PTME) team, specializing in cutting tools and tooling management for new manufacturing processes and technologies. You will be responsible for developing, standardizing, and implementing cutting-edge tooling solutions that optimize cost, efficiency, and quality across Ford's global powertrain operations. Your role will involve conducting detailed studies, evaluating new materials and processes, and providing technical guidance to process teams from initial concept through to plant launch. This position requires a strong technical background in machining, materials science, and cost analysis, coupled with a proactive approach to continuous improvement and standardization. 

Your role will encompass program leadership, technical process development, and financial stewardship. Key responsibilities include:

Tooling Strategy & Development: 

• Lead the development of new cutting tool types, designs, and processes for features not currently part of the established library or experience base within PTME, generating Global Common Process Library (GCPL) entries whenever practical.
• Evaluate and implement new tooling technologies and conduct standard machinability testing for work materials, tools, and processes.
• Develop new specifications, standards, procedures, and guidelines for all new tooling processes, driving common practices and ensuring understanding through teaching modules and program support.
• Create, update, and maintain all tooling specifications, standards, procedures, and guidelines.

Costing & Standardization: 

• Complete program studies estimating cutting tool needs, related costs, and developing new cost models for inclusion in the Bill of Process (BoP) for new processes/technologies.
• Update and maintain BoP costs for tooling and tool management facilities to be used by process teams during cost study preparation.
• Implement standard tool management systems in all new Powertrain Plants.
• Update and maintain the Global Early Sourcing Work Plan (GESWP) for Tooling and Tool Management facilities.

Technical Guidance & Support: 

• Provide oversight and guidance to process teams in the approval of existing tool types, designs, and processes.
• Provide oversight and guidance to process teams in the development of cost studies.
• Provide tooling information and other details in support of 1295 generation by third-party providers.
• Support Process Engineering teams relative to their deliverables.

Plant Support & Ergonomics: 

• Liaise with Powertrain Operations (PTO) plants during the launch of new manufacturing processes, resolving technical issues as they arise, specifically for new technologies.
• Conduct ergonomic analysis to support tool management activities for new facilities and develop/document standards as needed.

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Manufacturing, or related). 

• Experience:

  • Professional experience in manufacturing engineering with a strong focus on cutting tools, machining processes, and tooling management.

  • Experience with new process introduction and technology evaluation within a manufacturing environment.

  • Familiarity with powertrain component manufacturing is preferred.

• Technical Knowledge: 

  • Deep understanding of cutting tool materials, geometries, and applications.

  • Proficiency in developing cost models, conducting machinability studies, and ergonomic analysis related to tooling.

  • Ability to create and interpret technical specifications, standards, and procedures for tooling.

  • Knowledge of global sourcing and procurement processes for tooling.

• Language Skills: Advanced proficiency in English (written and verbal) for global reporting and cross-functional collaboration. 

• Soft Skills: 

  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills for resolving complex tooling-related issues.

  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to provide guidance and collaborate effectively with diverse teams and suppliers.

  • Proactive in identifying and implementing continuous improvements and new technologies.