Tooling Engineer Jobs in Milwaukee, WI

Milwaukee, Wisconsin$77,550 USD/yearFull-time
Updated: April 2026Expert reviewed|Data sourced from BLS, Glassdoor, and industry reports

About Tooling Engineer Jobs in Milwaukee

Looking for a Tooling Engineer job in Milwaukee? You're in the right place. This guide covers everything you need to know about working as a Tooling Engineer in Milwaukee, WI.

We'll show you what you can expect to earn. We'll also share which companies are hiring. Plus, you'll learn about the cost of living and how to get started in your job search.

Milwaukee has a strong job market for Tooling Engineers. Many employers are actively looking for talent. Read on to learn how to land your next role.

Tooling Engineer Salary in Milwaukee

Entry Level
$51,935
Median
$77,550
Senior Level
$108,100

Tooling Engineer salaries in Milwaukee are in line with national averages, offering competitive compensation for the region.

Purchasing power in Milwaukee is comparable to the national average, with salaries appropriately scaled to local costs.

Required Skills

Tool DesignCADManufacturing ProcessesProblem SolvingMaterials

Tooling Engineer Job Market in Milwaukee

Milwaukee, WI is a major regional employment hub for Tooling Engineer professionals. As a mid-sized metro with 577K residents, Milwaukee balances career opportunities with quality of life. The city's strong Manufacturing and Healthcare sectors create robust demand for Tooling Engineer talent. The market for Tooling Engineer positions remains stable, with opportunities in both established companies and growing organizations.

Top Companies Hiring Tooling Engineers in Milwaukee

Harley-DavidsonJohnson ControlsRockwellBriggs & Stratton

Major employers hiring Tooling Engineers in Milwaukee include Harley-Davidson, Johnson Controls, Rockwell, Briggs & Stratton. Many companies offer competitive benefits including comprehensive healthcare, and professional development opportunities.

Cost of Living for Tooling Engineers in Milwaukee

Living in Milwaukee as a Tooling Engineer means navigating a cost of living that's close to the national average. Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $1,200/month (33% below the national average). At median Tooling Engineer salary, housing is quite affordable at 19% of gross income, leaving room for savings and lifestyle spending. Suburban apartments average $950/month, offering significant savings with slightly longer commutes.

94
Cost Index (100=avg)
$1.2K
Avg Rent/Month
Growing
Tech Hub
Tier 2
Market Size

Commuting as a Tooling Engineer in Milwaukee

Milwaukee Limited public transit options; car recommended for most commutes. The average commute time is 25 minutes. Research employer-specific shuttle services. Consider living close to your workplace. Since transit options are limited, consider living close to your workplace or negotiating flexible hours to avoid peak traffic.

Best neighborhoods for Tooling Engineers in Milwaukee: Downtown (Central business district with tech companies); Tech Park/Campus (Suburban office park developments). Downtown is particularly popular among Tooling Engineer professionals due to proximity to major employers and urban amenities.

Tax Considerations in Wisconsin

Wisconsin has relatively high state income taxes. A Tooling Engineer earning $77,550 might pay approximately $6,204 in state income tax. However, Wisconsin's strong job market and quality of life often offset the higher tax burden.

Career Outlook for Tooling Engineers

The job outlook for Tooling Engineers in Milwaukee is stable. While not experiencing rapid growth, the field maintains steady demand with consistent opportunities for qualified professionals. Milwaukee's growing economy creates new positions regularly, often with less competition than coastal tech hubs. In-demand skills include Tool Design, CAD, Manufacturing Processes, Problem Solving.

Relocating to Milwaukee

Milwaukee's affordable cost of living means your Tooling Engineer salary will stretch further than in major coastal cities. Many professionals relocate here for better quality of life. Wisconsin has higher state income taxes. Factor this into salary negotiations, as gross salary comparisons can be misleading.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average Tooling Engineer salary in Milwaukee, WI?

The average Tooling Engineer salary in Milwaukee, WI is $77,550 per year. Entry-level Tooling Engineers typically start around $51,935, while experienced professionals can earn $108,100 or more. The national average for Tooling Engineer roles is $82,500.

How many Tooling Engineer jobs are available in Milwaukee?

Milwaukee has a strong job market with regular openings for Tooling Engineer professionals. Major employers hiring Tooling Engineers include Harley-Davidson, Johnson Controls, Rockwell, Briggs & Stratton. The Manufacturing and Healthcare sectors drive much of the demand in this market.

Is Milwaukee a good city for Tooling Engineers?

Milwaukee is an very good choice for Tooling Engineers. As a major metro area, it offers abundant opportunities and competitive salaries. The affordable cost of living means salaries go further than in more expensive markets. The city's manufacturing industry creates strong demand for manufacturing professionals.

What skills are most in-demand for Tooling Engineers in Milwaukee?

Top skills for Tooling Engineers in Milwaukee include Tool Design, CAD, Manufacturing Processes, Problem Solving, Materials. Employers value both technical expertise and soft skills like communication and teamwork.

What is the cost of living for Tooling Engineers in Milwaukee?

Milwaukee's cost of living is near the national average (94% of baseline). Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $1,200/month. Purchasing power in Milwaukee is comparable to the national average, with salaries appropriately scaled to local costs.

How is the commute for Tooling Engineers in Milwaukee?

Milwaukee Limited public transit options; car recommended for most commutes. The average commute is 25 minutes. Research employer-specific shuttle services.

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