1. Cutting Tool Planning & Management

• Ensure timely availability of cutting tools, inserts, holders, drills, reamers, taps, and special tooling.
• Maintain tool inventory levels as per production requirements.
• Develop tool consumption forecasts based on production plans.
• Monitor tool utilization and prevent line stoppages due to tool shortages.
• Establish tool replenishment systems and minimum stock levels.

2. Tool Life Optimization

• Monitor and analyze tool life performance across machining operations.
• Implement initiatives to improve cutting tool performance and productivity.
• Standardize cutting parameters and tool usage practices.
• Conduct tool trials for cycle time reduction and productivity improvement.
• Work on optimization of feeds, speeds, and cutting conditions.

3. Cost Reduction & Productivity Improvement

• Drive tooling cost reduction projects.
• Identify alternate tooling solutions and cost-effective suppliers.
• Improve tool utilization and reduce tool consumption per component.
• Support Kaizen and Lean Manufacturing initiatives.
• Track tooling cost per component and implement improvement actions.

4. Tool Crib Management

• Manage tool crib operations and inventory accuracy.
• Ensure proper storage, issue, return, and tracking of tools.
• Maintain inventory records in ERP/SAP systems.
• Implement FIFO and inventory control practices.
• Conduct periodic audits and stock verification.

5. New Product Development Support

• Participate in APQP and new project activities.
• Define tooling requirements for new products and processes.
• Coordinate procurement and development of special cutting tools.
• Support PPAP and process validation activities.
• Conduct machining feasibility studies.

6. Vendor Development & Coordination

• Coordinate with cutting tool manufacturers and suppliers.
• Conduct technical discussions for tooling improvements.
• Evaluate new tooling technologies and products.
• Monitor supplier performance, quality, and delivery.
• Negotiate tooling costs and optimize sourcing.

7. Process Improvement & Technical Support

• Support production teams in resolving machining-related issues.
• Analyze machining problems related to tool wear, tool breakage, chatter, and dimensional deviations.
• Carry out root cause analysis and corrective actions.
• Establish standard operating procedures for tool management.
• Support CNC machining process improvement projects.

8. Quality & Compliance

• Ensure tooling standards comply with customer and internal requirements.
• Support IATF 16949, ISO 9001, and other quality systems.
• Maintain tooling-related documentation and records.
• Participate in internal and external audits.
• Ensure compliance with safety and environmental standards.

9. Team Management

• Lead tool crib personnel and tooling technicians.
• Train operators and supervisors on tool handling and best practices.
• Develop skill enhancement programs for tooling teams.
• Monitor manpower utilization and productivity.