Position Details
Tool Engineer Apply
Title: Tool Engineer
Job ID: 15576-1
Pay : $90.00/hr - $107.00/hr on W2!
Shift : 1st shift, 4/10
Location: Palmdale, CA 93550 - 100% ONSITE
Contract: 24 month Contract with potential extension
Citizenship Requirement: US Citizenship (Ability to obtain a Secret Clearance)
Job Description:
Key Responsibilities
Tool Design & Development
o Generate 3 D models and detailed drawings for custom tools, fixtures, jigs, and gauges using CAD software (SolidWorks, CATIA, or Creo).
o Conduct design for manufacturability (DFM) and design for assembly (DFA) reviews; incorporate GD&T and tolerancing best practices.
o Perform finite element analysis (FEA) and stress/deflection calculations to validate structural integrity.
Prototype & Validation
o Build and assemble prototype tooling; coordinate rapid prototype methods (3 D printing, CNC machining, additive manufacturing).
o Develop test plans; run qualification trials, capture data, and analyze results to verify tool performance against specifications.
o Document tool qualification reports and secure release for production use.
Production Support
o Issue and maintain engineering change orders (ECOs) for tooling improvements or corrective actions.
o Provide on site support for tool installation, alignment, and troubleshooting; train manufacturing personnel on proper usage.
o Monitor tool wear, life cycle cost, and schedule preventive maintenance or refurbishment as needed.
Supplier Management
o Identify, qualify, and manage external tool vendors; develop statements of work (SOW) and technical specifications.
o Conduct supplier audits, evaluate capability, and ensure compliance with Northrop quality standards (AS9100, NADCAP).
Continuous Improvement
o Lead initiatives to reduce tooling cost, cycle time, and waste through lean manufacturing, value stream mapping, and automation.
o Capture lessons learned; update tooling standards, best practice guides, and knowledge base documents.
Compliance & Documentation
o Ensure all tooling complies with relevant standards (MIL STD 1850, FAA/EASA, ITAR) and internal security requirements.
o Maintain accurate configuration controlled records in PLM system (Windchill, Teamcenter).
Basic Qualifications:
High school diploma
15 + years of aerospace/manufacturing experience
Preferred Qualifications:
High school diploma
Experience in tool fabrication/assemblies
15 + years of aerospace/manufacturing experience
