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Aerospace Designer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Howmet Fastening Systems (HFS) is seeking a Designer I in our Fullerton, CA location. Summary ... Minimum of 3- 5 years of tooling design experience working in an aerospace, automotive, medical or ...

Aerospace Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$170K - $210K/yr

... designs, contribute to ground architecture decisions, and support integration of ground segments with the broader missile warning system-of-systems. Provide SME-level aerospace engineering expertise ...

Responsibilities Howmet Fastening Systems (HFS) is seeking a Designer I in our Fullerton, CA ... Minimum of 3- 5 years of tooling design experience working in an aerospace, automotive, medical or ...

Designer I

Fullerton, CA · On-site

$75K - $90K/yr

Responsibilities Howmet Fastening Systems (HFS) is seeking a Designer I in our Fullerton, CA ... Minimum of 3- 5 years of tooling design experience working in an aerospace, automotive, medical or ...

Howmet Aerospace Inc. (NYSE: HWM), headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is a leading global ... Howmet Fastening Systems (HFS) is seeking a Designer I in our Fullerton, CA location. Summary:

Aerospace Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$170K - $210K/yr

Lead engineering reviews of ground system designs, technical baselines, and architecture decisions * Support ground system integration with satellite segments and user segment systems * Provide ...

About Crane: Crane Aerospace & Electronics supplies critical systems and components to the ... You will work on new product designs, modernization, and upgrades, as well as perform extensive ...

Designer I

Fullerton, CA · On-site

$75K - $90K/yr

Howmet Fastening Systems (HFS) is seeking a Designer I in our Fullerton, CA location. Summary ... Minimum of 3- 5 years of tooling design experience working in an aerospace, automotive, medical or ...

Planning Manager (Aerospace)

Carson, CA · On-site

$105K - $147K/yr

Born from many well-known and long-standing brands, Howmet Fastening Systems, headquartered in Torrance, California, is the premier designer and manufacturer of aerospace and industrial fasteners ...

Planning Manager (Aerospace)

Carson, CA · On-site

$105K - $147K/yr

Born from many well-known and long-standing brands, Howmet Fastening Systems, headquartered in Torrance, California, is the premier designer and manufacturer of aerospace and industrial fasteners ...

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Aerospace Designer information

See California salary details

$14

$23

$42

How much do aerospace designer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for aerospace designer in California is $23.40, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.47 and $23.70 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an aerospace designer do?

An Aerospace Designer is responsible for creating and developing the designs of aircraft, spacecraft, satellites, and missiles. They use advanced computer-aided design (CAD) software to draft blueprints and models, focusing on both functionality and safety. Aerospace Designers work closely with engineers and project teams to ensure their designs meet strict industry standards and regulatory requirements. Their work often involves testing prototypes, solving complex technical problems, and making improvements to optimize performance and efficiency.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an aerospace designer, and why are they important?

Aerospace Designers require a solid background in aerospace engineering principles, CAD modeling, and typically hold a bachelor's degree in aerospace or mechanical engineering. Proficiency with technical tools such as CATIA, SolidWorks, and knowledge of simulation software like ANSYS is crucial, along with familiarity with industry standards and certifications. Strong problem-solving skills, creativity, teamwork, and effective communication set exceptional designers apart. These competencies ensure the ability to create innovative, safe, and efficient aerospace components while collaborating across multidisciplinary teams.

How do aerospace designers typically collaborate with engineers and other specialists during the development of new aircraft or spacecraft?

Aerospace Designers work closely with multidisciplinary teams that often include aeronautical engineers, structural analysts, materials specialists, and manufacturing experts. Collaboration is essential throughout the design process, from initial concept sketches to detailed CAD models and prototype testing. Designers attend regular meetings to discuss design feasibility, incorporate feedback, and ensure that their concepts meet safety, performance, and regulatory requirements. Effective communication and adaptability are key, as design iterations are common and input from various departments shapes the final product.

What is the difference between Aerospace Designer vs Aerospace Engineer?

AspectAerospace DesignerAerospace Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in aerospace or mechanical engineering; design certificationsBachelor's or master's in aerospace or mechanical engineering; professional engineering license
Work EnvironmentDesign studios, CAD labs, R&D departmentsResearch labs, testing facilities, manufacturing plants
Employer & Industry UsageAircraft, spacecraft, defense contractorsAircraft manufacturers, space agencies, defense industry

While both roles involve working within the aerospace industry, Aerospace Designers primarily focus on creating detailed designs and CAD models of aircraft or spacecraft components. Aerospace Engineers, on the other hand, are involved in analyzing, testing, and overseeing the development of aerospace systems. The roles often overlap, but engineers typically handle more technical analysis and validation, whereas designers concentrate on conceptualization and detailed design work.

How do you become an aerospace designer?

To become an aerospace designer, typically a bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, or a related field is required. Gaining experience through internships, developing skills in CAD software, and obtaining professional certifications can enhance job prospects in this field.
Infographic showing various Aerospace Designer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,674 per year, or $23.4 per hour.

Aerospace Manufacturing Tool Designer

KBR

Torrance, CA

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 16 days ago


KBR rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 48 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

143rd of 450 rated engineering


Job description

Title:

Aerospace Manufacturing Tool Designer

Belong, Connect, Grow, with KBR!

Program Summary

KBR's Global Asset Management (GAM) group provides comprehensive manufacturing and supply chain solutions globally, serving both commercial and government clients. With a wide range of services including Government Property Management, Production Maintenance, and Equipment Tracking, GAM is dedicated to ensuring excellence in every aspect of the supply chain and asset management process. This commitment ensures the seamless operation of our clients' enterprises across diverse locations.

Job Summary

Under general supervision, the Aerospace Manufacturing Tool Designer develops, designs, and supports tooling solutions used in the manufacture, assembly, inspection, and testing of aerospace components and systems. This role applies engineering and design principles to create production tooling, fixtures, jigs, and related equipment that improve manufacturing efficiency, quality, and safety. The Tool Designer collaborates with engineering, manufacturing, quality, and operations teams to support production requirements and continuous improvement initiatives.

Roles and Responsibilities

  • Design and develop manufacturing tooling, fixtures, jigs, templates, and related equipment to support aerospace production and assembly operations.

  • Create detailed 2D and 3D CAD models, drawings, and technical documentation in accordance with company and industry standards.

  • Support tooling concepts from initial design through fabrication, testing, implementation, and production use.

  • Collaborate with manufacturing engineers, production personnel, and quality teams to resolve tooling and process-related challenges.

  • Review product designs, specifications, and manufacturing requirements to develop effective tooling solutions.

  • Conduct tolerance stack-up analyses and evaluate tooling designs for manufacturability, functionality, and cost effectiveness.

  • Assist in troubleshooting production issues and implementing tooling improvements to enhance quality and efficiency.

  • Ensure tooling designs comply with aerospace standards, safety requirements, and customer specifications.

  • Support continuous improvement and lean manufacturing initiatives.

  • Maintain accurate engineering records, tooling databases, and revision-controlled documentation.

Basic Qualifications

  • Associate's degree or Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Engineering Technology, Mechanical Design, Drafting, or a related technical discipline.

  • Minimum 2 years of experience designing manufacturing tooling, fixtures, or production equipment.

  • Proficiency in CAD software such as CATIA, SolidWorks, Creo, NX, or AutoCAD.

  • Ability to interpret engineering drawings, GD&T, specifications, and manufacturing requirements.

  • Knowledge of manufacturing processes, machining, fabrication, and assembly techniques.

  • Strong problem-solving, analytical, and communication skills.

  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications.

  • Must be a U.S. Citizen.

Preferred Qualification

  • 3-7 years of aerospace tooling design experience.

  • Experience supporting aerospace manufacturing, assembly, integration, or production environments.

  • Knowledge of AS9100 quality standards and aerospace manufacturing best practices.

  • Experience with tooling for composite, metallic, or precision aerospace components.

  • Familiarity with GD&T and tolerance analysis.

  • Experience supporting government or defense programs.

  • Strong understanding of lean manufacturing and continuous improvement methodologies.


Salary Range: - 80,000-88,000

KBR Benefits

KBR offers a selection of competitive lifestyle benefits which could include 401K plan with company match, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, AD&D, flexible spending account, disability, paid time off, or flexible work schedule. We support career advancement through professional training and development.

Belong, Connect and Grow at KBR
At KBR, we are passionate about our people and our Zero Harm culture. These inform all that we do and are at the heart of our commitment to, and ongoing journey toward being a People First company. That commitment is central to our team of team's philosophy and fosters an environment where everyone can Belong, Connect and Grow. We Deliver - Together.

KBR is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, national origin, veteran status, genetic information, union status and/or beliefs, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.


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About KBR

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At KBR, we partner with government and industry clients to provide purposeful and comprehensive solutions with an emphasis on efficiency and safety. With a full portfolio of services, proprietary technologies and expertise, our employees are ready to handle projects and missions from planning and design to sustainability and maintenance. Whether at the bottom of the ocean or in outer space, our clients trust us to deliver the impossible on a daily basis.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Houston, TX, US

Year founded

1998