Staff Engineer

BASIC FUNCTION
Under the general supervision of the Tool Room Engineering Manager, this position is responsible for developing, optimizing, and maintaining CNC programs for the manufacturing of high-pressure die-casting (HPDC) molds, stamping dies, and complex tooling components.

The role ensures that machining programs meet quality, safety, cost, and delivery requirements while supporting strategic objectives related to machining efficiency, lead-time reduction, tooling capacity growth, and standardization of best practices within the Tool Room.

This position is also accountable for machining process optimization, collaboration with tooling designers and machinists, and continuous improvement initiatives related to CNC programming, tooling strategies, and manufacturing methods.

Specific Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain CNC programs for HPDC molds, stamping dies, and complex tooling components using approved CAM software.
• Optimize machining strategies to reduce cycle time, improve surface finish, and extend cutting tool life.
• Select and define appropriate cutting tools, feeds, speeds, and machining parameters for hardened steels and special materials.
• Ensure CNC programs meet dimensional, tolerance, and quality requirements as defined by engineering drawings and specifications.
• Support tooling designers during design reviews by providing manufacturability feedback and machining feasibility input.
• Collaborate closely with tool makers, machinists, and supervisors to ensure effective execution of CNC programs.
• Standardize CNC programming practices, templates, post-processors, and documentation.
• Maintain version control and traceability of all NC programs to ensure consistency and error prevention.
• Support mold try-outs, debug machining issues, and implement corrective actions as required.
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives to enhance machining efficiency, safety, and quality.
• Assist in troubleshooting machining, tooling, or equipment-related issues impacting delivery or quality.
• Always ensure compliance with safety standards and proper machining practices.
• Support documentation updates, including machining instructions, tooling lists, and process records.
• Participate in TIER meetings and cross-functional reviews as required.
• Perform other duties or assignments as directed by the Tool Room Engineering Manager.
• Comply with the Health and Safety rules and responsibilities established for this position.

Skills/Requirements

• 3+ years of experience working with tooling (HPDC, Die Casting, Injection Molds, or Stamping Dies).
• 5 + years of experience operating and programming CNC machines (Vertical & Horizontal Milling, Lathe, Grinding, EDM).
• 5+ years of experience developing NC programs using CAM software (Mastercam, Powermill, or equivalent).
• Proven experience machining hardened steels and complex tooling components.

FORMATION

• Proficiency in CAM software for CNC programming (Mastercam or Powermill preferred).
• Strong understanding of machining processes, cutting tools, tool holders, and work holding.
• Familiarity with ERP or CMMS systems for work orders, documentation, and time confirmations is desired.

Why Choose Kohler?
We empower each associate to #BecomeMoreAtKohler with a competitive total rewards package to support your health and wellbeing, access to career growth and development opportunities, a diverse and inclusive workplace, and a strong culture of innovation. With more than 30,000 bold leaders across the globe, we're driving meaningful change in our mission to help people live gracious, healthy, and sustainable lives.

About Us
It is Kohler's policy to recruit, hire, and promote qualified applicants without regard to race, creed, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, national origin, disability or status as a protected veteran. If, as an individual with a disability, you need reasonable accommodation during the recruitment process, please contact . Kohler Co. is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.