Principal Tooling Engineer

Buffalo Grove, IL 60089

Employment Type: Permanent Job Category: Manufacturing / Process Engineering Job Number: 54309905 Compensation: $120000-164000 / year

Job Description

Principal Tooling Engineer – Injection Molding
Location: Libertyville, IL (Relocation assistance packages offered for qualified candidates) 
Travel: International travel to Denmark (1–2 weeks at a time during the first year; significantly reduced thereafter)
Target Pay: $145,000-$175,000/year + 10% annual bonus 

Overview
We are seeking an experienced Principal Tooling Engineer to support the development of state-of-the-art injection molding tooling for a high-visibility medical manufacturing program, including production of a leading weight-loss therapy. This role partners closely with global customers and internal engineering teams to design, validate, and launch advanced tooling while helping establish U.S.-based manufacturing capability.
This is a highly collaborative, hands-on position ideal for a senior tooling professional who enjoys working across design, process development, and shop-floor execution.

Key Responsibilities
  • Design and engineer complex tooling solutions for molds, jigs, and fixtures to meet product and regulatory specifications.
  • Participate in design reviews and perform Design for Manufacturability (DFM) evaluations.
  • Lead validation of molding tools and troubleshoot tooling or process-related issues.
  • Implement cost-effective tooling improvements and engineering changes.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams on tool qualification, sampling, and final part approval.
  • Develop and maintain tooling documentation, work instructions, and process standards.
  • Provide technical coaching and guidance to tooling technicians and internal engineering staff.
  • Deliver status updates aligned with project timelines and customer expectations.
  • Support early-phase international collaboration, including travel to Denmark during initial program launch.
Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or a related technical field.
  • 15+ years of experience in injection molding tooling design, validation, and troubleshooting.
  • Deep expertise in thermoplastics and/or thermosets, mold flow, and molding process optimization.
  • Strong background in Design for Manufacturability and tooling qualification.
  • Hands-on experience working in manufacturing or tool room environments.
  • Proven ability to collaborate across engineering, production, and customer teams.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Medical device or regulated manufacturing experience.
  • Experience supporting global manufacturing transfers or new product launches.
  • Familiarity with inspection, measurement tools, and electronic/mechanical test equipment.
Why Join
  • Opportunity to contribute to a high-impact medical manufacturing program.
  • Visibility with global customers and leadership teams.
  • Key role in bringing advanced production capability to the United States.
  • Collaborative environment where senior technical expertise drives real outcomes.

Meet Your Recruiter

Max Francis
Recruiting Team Lead

Max Francis is a Recruiter at Sterling Engineering, where he has been a valued member of the team for more than seven years. He focuses on supporting a key Flex account, helping connect qualified candidates with opportunities that align with their experience, goals, and long-term career path.

Max understands that making a career move is a major life decision. He enjoys helping candidates navigate the ever-changing job market and hiring process with confidence, clarity, and support. His goal is to help each candidate take the next meaningful step in their career while finding the right long-term professional home.

Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information. 

 As one of the most respected names in engineering staffing, Sterling has hundreds of opportunities with top employers. If you’ve got a friend or colleague seeking their next move in engineering, we could have their next opportunity. We offer a referral bonus for every referral that we place. Submit referral now. 

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About Buffalo Grove, IL

Looking to kickstart your career in the vibrant area surrounding Buffalo Grove, Illinois? Explore our job opportunities in this thriving community where endless growth opportunities await. Nestled in the heart of Lake County, this charming suburb offers a perfect blend of urban amenities and picturesque natural beauty. With renowned art galleries like the Buffalo Creek Art Center, dynamic theaters such as the Metropolis Performing Arts Centre, and easy access to professional sports teams like the Chicago Bears, there's something for everyone here. Indulge in local delicacies like deep dish pizza and Chicago-style hot dogs, then unwind at the beautiful Buffalo Creek Forest Preserve. Join us in Buffalo Grove, IL, and let your career flourish in this captivating location!