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Aerospace Tool Design Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Shield AI

Staff Engineer, Tool Design (R4299)

Dallas, TX · On-site

$120K - $190K/yr

The Senior Tool Design Engineer brings 7+ years of experience developing production tooling for complex aerospace systems. This role owns tooling throughout its lifecycle (concept, design, analysis ...

Shield AI

Staff Engineer, Tool Design (R4299)

Dallas, TX

$120K - $190K/yr

The Senior Tool Design Engineer brings 7+ years of experience developing production tooling for complex aerospace systems. This role owns tooling throughout its lifecycle (concept, design, analysis ...

HANWHA AEROSPACE USA LLC

Tool Designer 1

Cheshire, CT · On-site

You will develop tool designs in support of internal manufacturing as well as multiple Aerospace & Defense companies. Essential Functions: * Create tool designs utilizing NX (Unigraphics) CAD system.

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Prolim Global

Engineer Tool 1

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$39 - $42/hr

Join a Leading Aerospace & Defense Organization We are seeking a motivated Engineer Tool 1 to support a Tool Design organization in El Segundo, California. This is an exciting opportunity for recent ...

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Prolim Global

Engineer Tool 1

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$39 - $42/hr

Design industrial machinery, equipment, tools, dies, gauges, jigs, fixtures, and machine ... Experience in an aerospace manufacturing environment. * Experience designing or supporting ...

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Aerospace Tool Design information

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$53.5K

$90.4K

$133.5K

How much do aerospace tool design jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for aerospace tool design in the United States is $90,449.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $73,000.00 and $103,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Aerospace Tool Design position, and why are they important?

To thrive in Aerospace Tool Design, a strong background in mechanical or aerospace engineering, CAD proficiency, and knowledge of manufacturing processes are essential, often backed by a relevant degree or certification. Familiarity with software such as CATIA, SolidWorks, and Siemens NX, as well as GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing), is commonly required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, collaboration, and effective communication distinguish top performers in this field. These skills ensure the creation of precise, reliable tools critical for aircraft manufacturing and maintenance within complex team environments.

What are some typical challenges faced by professionals in Aerospace Tool Design?

Professionals in Aerospace Tool Design often face the challenge of balancing strict safety standards with innovative tool solutions for complex aerospace systems. They must frequently collaborate with engineers, machinists, and quality assurance teams to ensure designs are both manufacturable and compliant with industry regulations. Adapting to evolving technology and meeting tight project deadlines are also common aspects of the role. Staying detail-oriented and open to feedback helps professionals thrive in this fast-paced, precision-driven environment.

What is an Aerospace Tool Design job?

An Aerospace Tool Design job involves creating specialized tools, fixtures, and equipment used in the manufacturing and assembly of aerospace components. Designers work with engineering teams to develop efficient, precise, and safe tooling solutions that meet industry standards. They use CAD software to design tools that improve production processes, reduce costs, and ensure high-quality results. This role requires knowledge of materials, manufacturing techniques, and aerospace regulations.

More about Aerospace Tool Design jobs
What cities are hiring for Aerospace Tool Design jobs? Cities with the most Aerospace Tool Design job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Aerospace Tool Design jobs? The most popular types of Aerospace Tool Design jobs are:
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Aerospace Tool Design jobs near you
Infographic showing various Aerospace Tool Design job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $90,449 per year, or $43.5 per hour.
Staff Engineer, Tool Design (R4299)

Staff Engineer, Tool Design (R4299)

Shield AI

Dallas, TX • On-site

$120K - $190K/yr

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago

Job description

Founded in 2015, Shield AI is a venture-backed defense-tech company with the mission of protecting service members and civilians with intelligent systems. Its products include Hivemind autonomy software and V-BAT and X-BAT aircraft. With offices and facilities across the U.S., Europe, the Middle East, and Asia-Pacific, Shield AI's technology actively supports operations worldwide. For more information, visit www.shield.ai. Follow Shield AI on LinkedIn, X, Instagram, and YouTube.
Job Description:
The Senior Tool Design Engineer brings 7+ years of experience developing production tooling for complex aerospace systems. This role owns tooling throughout its lifecycle (concept, design, analysis, release, fabrication, and prove-out) ensuring safe, repeatable, first-time-right assembly. You will work cross-functionally with Manufacturing, Quality, and Safety to deliver robust tooling that supports pilot builds through rate production.
What you'll do:
  • Translate GD&T, key characteristics, and CTQs into tooling requirements (datums, locators, clamps, tolerances, ergonomics, ESD/FOD controls).
  • Design assembly jigs, drill/bond fixtures, composites molds & trim fixtures, go/no-go gauges, lifting/handling carts, and protective tooling using CATIA/NX/SolidWorks.
  • Conduct FEA and hand calculations to confirm stiffness, clamp loads, safety factors, and ergonomics.
  • Generate complete Tool Design Packages including 3D models, 2D drawings with GD&T, BOM, torque/fastener specs, materials/finishes, lifting points, and safety labeling.
  • Lead design reviews with ME, Quality, Safety, and Launch teams; perform human-factors evaluations.
  • Manage tool fabrication , oversee NCR/ECR resolution, and support shop-floor prove-out.
  • Develop Tool Setup & Care Instructions, PM plans, and inspection checklists.
  • Support First Article activities including CMM/laser-tracker alignment, gage strategy, and dimensional validation.

Tools & Skills
  • CATIA / NX / SolidWorks, 3DEXPERIENCE / Teamcenter, FEA tools, GD&T, metrology fundamentals, supplier manufacturing processes.

Required qualifications:
  • 7+ years of experience in tooling design, mechanical design, or manufacturing engineering.
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Aerospace, Industrial, Mechatronics, or related engineering field.
  • Experience in prototype manufacturing in a startup or rapid-growth environment.
  • Strong understanding of manufacturing processes, including machining, composites, avionics and/or assembly.
  • Demonstrated ability to work in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment and adapt to changing priorities

Preferred qualifications:
  • Knowledge of quality standards, such as AS9100 or ISO 9001.
  • Familiarity with advanced manufacturing technologies, such as additive manufacturing or automation systems.
  • Strong project management skills, including experience managing multiple priorities and deadlines.

$120,000 - $190,000 a year
Full-time regular employee offer package:
Pay within range listed + Bonus + Benefits + Equity
Temporary employee offer package:
Pay within range listed above + temporary benefits package (applicable after 60 days of employment)
Salary compensation is influenced by a wide array of factors including but not limited to skill set, level of experience, licenses and certifications, and specific work location. All offers are contingent on a cleared background and possible reference check. Military fellows and part-time employees are not eligible for benefits. Please speak to your talent acquisition representative for more information.
Shield AI is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace and is an affirmative action employer. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, marital status, disability, gender identity or Veteran status. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please let us know.
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.

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