Position Summary
The Tool Design Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and improving tooling and fixture solutions used in CNC machining and manufacturing processes. This role supports production efficiency, quality, and repeatability by delivering robust, practical tooling designs that meet customer and internal requirements.
Key Responsibilities
· Design and develop custom fixtures, workholding, and tooling solutions for CNC machining operations.
· Create detailed 3D models and 2D drawings using CAD software.
· Collaborate with manufacturing engineers, programmers, and machinists to ensure designs are practical and efficient.
· Support new part introductions with tooling concepts that optimize cycle time and quality.
· Evaluate existing tooling and recommend improvements.
· Select appropriate materials and components.
· Ensure designs meet GD&T requirements.
· Troubleshoot tooling issues on the shop floor.
· Maintain organized documentation of tooling designs.
· Support continuous improvement initiatives.
Qualifications
· 3+ years of tooling/fixture design experience in a machining environment.
· Proficiency in CAD software.
· Working knowledge of CNC machining processes.
· Understanding of GD&T.
· Strong problem-solving skills.
Company Description
SMT specializes in precision machined components and assemblies primarily for the aircraft, aerospace, and defense industries.
We have 21 CNC machines, including 6 horizontal mills (3 of which are on a 23 pallet FMS and 1 has its own 6 pallet system), 1 high speed, 4-axis, vertical mill, 4 vertical mills with capability up to fifth axis positioning, and 8 lathes (some with live tooling). Our 2 most advanced CNC lathes are twin spindle, have twin Y axis turrets with live tooling, and are in a cell with a Fanuc robot.
Some of our niche capabilities include:
-Complex internal and external deburring and finishing under 10-40x magnification
-Process to create precision .0005" tolerance bores with less than 16 microfinish, and 11 sigma capability
-Precision surface treatment applications that eliminate the need for masking when parts require a combination of anodize and chemfilm, which results in clear and consistent edges every time.