Progressive Die and Fixture Design Engineer job at Manufacturers' Association Littlestown, PA, US

About the Role
Imagine starting your day reviewing a new stamping project, sketching die concepts, and translating them into precise 3D models. By midday, you’re refining stage sequencing for a progressive die, and later you’re on the floor observing a tryout to confirm the design is production‑ready. As a Progressive Die and Fixture Design Engineer, you’ll architect the tools and fixtures that make reliable, high‑quality parts possible across forging, stamping, and related manufacturing processes.

Conceive and develop new tooling and fixtures that align with manufacturing requirements.
Create detailed die designs enabling complete forging, stamping, and other processes to meet product specifications.
Define the sequence and number of die stages (single or progressive) for cutting, punching, and forming, and select the appropriate die set types based on process and machine knowledge.
Specify and integrate purchased components—such as die sets and bushings—into die designs.
Produce accurate scale drawings for each die set, clearly indicating contours and dimensions for manufacturing and assembly.
Observe setup and tryout of new die sets on production machines to validate readiness or identify redesign needs.
Collaborate closely with teammates and supervisors to clarify requirements and coordinate project activities.
Model and detail designs in 3D CAD (SolidWorks preferred).

4–10 years combined experience through trade school, vocational programs, on‑the‑job training, or apprenticeship.
Many successful designers come from hands‑on tool and die making apprenticeships covering theory and practice.