Tool designers create the tools that are used in manufacturing processes. They are employed in manufacturing and processing industries as well by engineering consultants.
As a tool designer, you must assess many elements when planning a manufacturing tool. You work from engineering drawings and refer to manuals to determine the requirements of each tool. You determine specifications for each part, what materials can be used, the expected life span of the part, and what machines should be used to manufacture the part. It is your responsibility to calculate the design specifications and ensure that dimensions are accurate. You must also determine whether manufacturing the part is safe and whether making this tool is cost-effective to the company.
You work with other people in the manufacturing process who tell you whether or not the tool you are designing meets all the necessary requirements. Though this system of checks and balances requires that designs be revised and refined many times, the increasing use of computers in this field means that exacting design standards may be achieved at a much faster rate.
People working in this position tend to be paid an annual salary.
There is no limit to the type of design work you might find yourself doing. Formal training periods are usually provided when you begin as companies want you to learn about their own specific methods and practices. Continual upgrading is part of the business, especially with the influence of computer-aided design programs and the rapid development of new materials. If courses on developing technology are not offered on the job, you can upgrade your skills through classes provide at a local community college.
You are able to advance within this area from machinist, to sheet metal operator, to draftsperson. Once you become a tool designer, you begin with simple design projects. As you gather more experience, you will be exposed to a greater variety of work and more challenging projects. As your skills improve, you may choose to pursue a specialization in fields such as detail tooling, assembly tooling, or design engineering.
Most tool designers work a regular forty-hour week, though some companies may require shift work.
There is strong and ongoing demand for people in this profession. To do well in it, you should be able to balance practical know-how of mechanics with creative ability. You must constantly look for new ways to modify or improve existing standards. This aspect of the work will attract you if you are the inventive type.
The work is meticulous and you must be able to concentrate on small details for extended periods of time. In most cases, you work in conjunction with tool makers, manufacturing engineers and quality control personnel. Because of this you should be able to communicate clearly and directly. Also, since much of the design process involves evaluating and revising ideas, you have to be open to constructive criticism from fellow workers.