Senior Tool Designer
South Africa Kwazulu-Natal Durban
ZAR 64000 - 65000 Monthly
Senior Tool Designer
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The Senior Tool Designer is responsible for the end-to-end design, development, and optimization of precision tooling. This role requires a dual-discipline expert capable of handling both plastic injection molding and metal press tool projects. The primary focus is to deliver production-ready designs that minimize cycle times, ensure ease of maintenance, and meet strict quality standards
Description
• Design & Development: Execute full-scale 3D designs and 2D manufacturing drawings for single/multi-cavity injection moulds and metal press tools.
• Progression Tooling: Lead the design of full progression (progressive) die sets, including strip layout development, punching, and forming stages.
• Simulation & Validation: Perform DFM (Design for Manufacturing) reviews, including Moldflow and formability simulations, to mitigate risks prior to tool construction.
• Toolroom Liaison: Act as the technical point of contact for the Toolroom during the build phase; provide immediate design resolutions for any manufacturing or assembly interference issues.
• Lifecycle Management: Support T1 trials and tool conditioning; document all design changes and maintain version control of tool drawings and CAD data
Minimum Requirements
• Minimum of 5 years of documented experience in the design of both injection molds and metal press tools.
• Proven expertise in designing complex progression press tools.
• Tool, Jig & Die maker experience
• Advanced, hands-on experience with the following packages is mandatory:
• Mastercam: Version 2022 or later.
• CAD: Proficiency in SolidWorks and/or Autodesk Fusion.
• All internal/external applicants must provide a comprehensive portfolio.
• Required Contents: Examples of 3D assemblies, 2D detail drawings, strip layouts for progression tools, and evidence of successful mould designs.
▪ A minimum of 5 years of experience in a leadership role within a precision engineering or manufacturing environment, with a strong focus on toolmaking.
▪ Proven technical expertise in plastic mould and/or metal pressing toolmaking.
▪ Strong knowledge of CNC milling, wire cutting, spark erosion, and other conventional toolroom machinery.
▪ Familiarity with ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 standards.
▪ Excellent project management skills and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
▪ Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
▪ Proficiency in CAD/CAM software for design and costing purposes. Key Competencies & Additional Requirements
▪ Material Science: Strong understanding of tool steels (D2, P20, H13, etc.), heat treatment specifications, and the shrinkage/flow characteristics of various polymers
▪ Standards: Mastery of GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing) to ensure interchangeability of tool components.
▪ Standardized Parts: Proficiency in incorporating standard components (e.g., HASCO, DME, MISUMI) to streamline maintenance.
▪ Analytical Skills: Ability to troubleshoot "on-press" issues (e.g., spring-back in metal or flash/warpage in plastics) and implement corrective design modifications. Internal Performance Indicators
• Accuracy of Bill of Materials (BOM).
• Reduction in design-related modifications during the tool build phase.
• Adherence to project timelines from concept to final tool sign-off.
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