Tooling Design Engineer

Business overview

Volex is a global leader in integrated manufacturing for performance-critical applications and a supplier of power products. We serve a diverse range of markets and customers, with particular expertise in cable assemblies, higher-level assemblies, data center power and connectivity, electric vehicle charging, and consumer electricals. We are headquartered in the UK and operate from 28 manufacturing locations with a global workforce of over 14,000 employees across 25 countries. Volex operates across five divisions: Complex Industrial Technology, Consumer Electricals, Electric Vehicles, Medical, and Off-Highway/Specialist Automotive. Our products are sold through our own locally based sales teams and through authorized distributor partners to Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) and Electronic Manufacturing Services (EMS) companies worldwide. All of the products and services that we offer are integral to the increasingly complex digital world in which we live, providing power and connectivity from the most common household items to the most complex medical equipment.

Job Role / Job Overview

The Tooling Designer is responsible for designing, developing, and optimizing precision plastic injection molds and tooling systems. This role involves collaborating with engineers, toolmakers, and production teams to ensure molds meet quality, performance, and manufacturability standards.

Key Responsibilities

1. Mold Design & Development

• Create detailed 3D models and 2D drawings of plastic injection molds using CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD, UG NX, or CATIA).
• Design multi-cavity molds, hot/cold runner systems, sliders, lifters, and ejection mechanisms.
• Ensure designs meet specifications for material selection, cooling systems, venting, and parting lines.
• Perform DFM (Design for Manufacturability) reviews with cross-functional teams.

2. Technical Collaboration

• Work closely with toolmakers, molders, and product engineers to resolve design challenges.
• Review and interpret customer drawings, specifications, and GD&T requirements.
• Optimize mold designs for cycle time reduction, durability, and cost efficiency.

3. Prototyping & Testing Support

• Assist in mold trials (T0, T1, etc.) and troubleshoot issues like sink marks, warpage, or flash.
• Recommend design modifications based on trial results and production feedback.

4. Documentation & Standards Compliance

• Maintain accurate design documentation, including BOMs (Bill of Materials), tooling drawings, and revisions.

5. Continuous Improvement

• Research new mold technologies, materials, and software tools to enhance design efficiency.
• Support cost-saving initiatives and lean manufacturing practices.

Qualifications & Skills

Education & Experience

• Associates or Bachelors degree in Mechanical Engineering, Tool & Die Design, or related field.
• 3+ years of experience in plastic injection mold design.
• Proficiency in CAD/CAM software (e.g., SolidWorks, NX, Mastercam).
• Knowledge of plastic resins (e.g., ABS, PP, PC, Nylon, PVC) and their molding behaviors.

Technical Skills

• Strong understanding of mold flow analysis (e.g., Moldflow).
• Familiarity with CNC machining, EDM, and tool fabrication processes.
• Ability to interpret GD&T, FEA reports, and technical specifications.

Soft Skills

• Problem-solving mindset with attention to detail.
• Strong communication and teamwork abilities.
• Ability to manage multiple projects under tight deadlines.

Work Environment

• Office-based with occasional shop floor visits.
• May require overtime during critical project phases.

Languages

• Fluency in English is essential

Equal Opportunity Statement

Volex is committed to upholding fair, inclusive, and non-discriminatory employment practices. All employment decisions are based strictly on job-related qualifications and merit, without regard to personal characteristics unrelated to job performance. We maintain a zero-tolerance policy toward discrimination, harassment, and the use of child labour. Volex also recognises and respects the right of employees to representation and collective bargaining, and we are dedicated to fostering a safe, respectful, and empowering work environment for all.