Engineering Jobs in Lyon, MI

Job Summary

The Cutting Tool Engineer is responsible for the design, development, and implementation of custom and standard cutting tools used in 4- and 5-axis horizontal milling machines. This role combines hands-on tool design, cutting condition analysis, supplier coordination, and direct collaboration with internal engineering teams and customers to deliver robust, production-ready tooling solutions.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

Cutting Tool Design & Engineering

• Coordinate design of custom cutting tools and tool assemblies for 4- and 5-axis horizontal machining applications with cutting tool suppliers.

• Develop 3D models and assemblies using SolidWorks or NX, including toolholder interfaces and complete tool stacks.

• Perform collision detection and tool envelope validation within machining environments.

• Optimize tool geometry and tool assemblies for performance, rigidity, tool life, and chip evacuation.

Cutting Condition Analysis

• Develop and maintain Microsoft Excel spreadsheets and macros for cutting condition calculations.

• Analyze machining data to recommend optimized cutting parameters.

• Support continuous improvement efforts through data-driven tooling and process recommendations.

Standard Components & Supplier Management

• Identify, specify, and integrate standard cutting tool components if applicable and still achieve project quality and performance.

• Work directly with suppliers to ensure quality, cost, and in coordination with purchasing department the delivery targets.

• Manage supplier relationships and corrective actions.

• Participate in supplier evaluations.

Cross-Functional & Customer Collaboration

• Collaborate with the Project Engineering Group on turnkey machining systems.

• Support tooling proposals, technical presentations, and design reviews.

• Participate in tooling acceptance and validation activities.

• Provide support during installation and production ramp-up.

Documentation & Standards

• Create tooling documentation, BOMs, machining charts, specifications, and coordinate drawings from suppliers.

• Ensure compliance with internal and customer standards.

• Maintain & use Excel templates and macros for cost estimations and comparisons

• Support best-practice development.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical or Manufacturing Engineering is beneficial but not required based on experience..

• 3+ years of experience in cutting tool applications or CNC tooling design.

• Proficiency in SolidWorks or NX and Microsoft Excel.

• Knowledge of metal cutting theory and machining processes.

• Supplier and customer interaction experience.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with 4- and 5-axis machining centers.

• Automotive or aerospace background.

• CAM software familiarity.

Key Competencies

• Analytical thinking

• Attention to detail

• Project coordination

• Technical communication

• Team collaboration