We are seeking a Design Engineer with experience in solid carbide round cutting tools to support the design, development, and production of drills, end mills, and reamers. This role is focused entirely on all-solid-carbide tooling and works closely with CNC tool grinding operations to ensure tool designs perform reliably in production and in customer applications.
This position is ideal for an engineer with a strong background in cutting tool geometry, CNC grinding, and manufacturability, who enjoys working hands-on with manufacturing, quality, and applications teams.
Key Responsibilities:
- Design and modify solid carbide cutting tools, including drills, end mills, and reamers
- Develop cutting geometries, flute profiles, reliefs, and tolerances to improve tool life and performance
- Support new product development and continuous improvement of existing round tool designs
- Work directly with CNC tool grinding machines, including Walter and Reinecker platforms
- Collaborate with manufacturing and quality teams to ensure designs translate efficiently into production
- Troubleshoot tooling and process issues related to geometry, grinding strategy, or performance
- Analyze inspection and performance data to guide design updates and refinements
- Create and maintain engineering documentation, drawings, and design revisions
- Participate in technical design reviews and cross-functional discussions
- Provide occasional technical support for customer-facing tooling discussions
Tools, Equipment & Software:
- CNC tool grinding equipment for solid carbide round tools
- Tool design and inspection systems such as Walter Helicheck, Zoller PomBasic, Bruker Alicona, and Tool Studio
- CAD and drafting tools including AutoCAD or equivalent
- Precision inspection and measurement systems used in cutting tool manufacturing
Required Experience & Qualifications:
- 7–10+ years of experience in solid carbide round tool design
- Proven experience designing drills, end mills, and reamers (solid carbide only)
- Strong understanding of cutting tool geometry, carbide materials, coatings, and grinding processes
- Experience supporting or programming production on Walter CNC tool grinding machines
- Ability to work effectively in a manufacturing-focused engineering environment
- Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail
- Clear communication skills and comfort working with shop-floor and technical teams
Preferred Experience:
- Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or related field (or equivalent industry experience)
- Background in cutting tool manufacturing or precision machining
- Experience creating and interpreting engineering drawings and blueprints
- Willingness to support light travel to collaborate with end users as needed
Why This Opportunity:
- Hands-on role designing high-performance solid carbide cutting tools
- Direct connection between engineering and CNC production
- Competitive compensation in the $100K–$130K range
- Opportunity to influence tool performance, quality, and manufacturability
- Stable role within a technically focused manufacturing environment
