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Tool Design Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Shield AI

Staff Engineer, Tool Design (R4967)

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 ...

Shield AI

Staff Engineer, Tool Design (R4967)

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 ...

ITC, Inc.

Tool Designer

Peoria, IL · On-site

$60K - $75K/yr

Review manufacturing information (e.g., process routing, 3D model, workholding) of new or existing parts, as applicable, to ensure proper development or update of tool design documentation and set up ...

Collabera

Tool Design Engineer

Valley City, ND

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Company Description Established in 1991, Collabera has been a leader in IT staffing for over 22 years and is one of the largest diversity IT staffing firms in the industry. As a half a billion dollar ...

ITC, Inc.

Tool Designer - Peoria, Illinois

Peoria, IL

Our large manufacturing client located in Peoria, Illinois, is looking for a Tool Designer, to add ... Evaluate and design workholding as needed to manufacture part(s) in selected machines * Create new ...

ITC, Inc.

Tool Designer - Peoria, Illinois

Peoria, IL · On-site

$60K - $75K/yr

Our large manufacturing client located in Peoria, Illinois, is looking for a Tool Designer, to add ... Evaluate and design workholding as needed to manufacture part(s) in selected machines * Create new ...

TRUMPF Group

Tooling Design Engineer

Farmington, CT · On-site

TRUMPF's sheet metal fabrication tooling division is looking for a Tool Design Engineer to lead the development of custom punch and die solutions that enable our customers to innovate faster. You'll ...

Trumpf

Tooling Design Engineer

Farmington, CT

TRUMPF's sheet metal fabrication tooling division is looking for a Tool Design Engineer to lead the development of custom punch and die solutions that enable our customers to innovate faster. You'll ...

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All JobsTool Design Jobs

Tool Design information

See salary details

$53.5K

$90.4K

$133.5K

How much do tool design jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for 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 some common challenges faced by tool designers when collaborating with manufacturing teams?

Tool designers often encounter challenges such as aligning their designs with manufacturing capabilities and production timelines. Effective communication is crucial to ensure that the tools are both functional and manufacturable within budget constraints. Additionally, adapting designs to accommodate changes in materials or production processes can require quick problem-solving and close teamwork. Regular meetings and feedback sessions with manufacturing engineers help address these challenges and promote smooth project execution.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a tool designer?

To excel as a Tool Designer, you need a solid background in mechanical engineering, manufacturing processes, and technical drawing, often supported by a relevant degree or certification. Proficiency with CAD software (like SolidWorks or AutoCAD) and knowledge of materials and fabrication methods are crucial. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help ensure designs meet both functional and safety requirements. These skills are vital for creating efficient, reliable tools that optimize production and maintain quality standards.

What does a tool design do?

A tool designer develops and creates tools, dies, and fixtures used in manufacturing processes to ensure efficient and precise production. They use CAD software, understand materials, and collaborate with engineers to optimize tool performance and durability.

What is the difference between Tool Design vs Manufacturing Engineering?

AspectTool DesignManufacturing Engineering
Primary FocusDesigning tools and equipment used in manufacturing processesPlanning and optimizing manufacturing processes and workflows
Required SkillsCAD, technical drawing, materials knowledgeProcess analysis, production planning, quality control
Work EnvironmentDesign studios, workshops, CAD labsFactories, production lines, plant floors
Common CertificationsCAD certifications, technical diplomasSix Sigma, Lean Manufacturing, PMP

Tool Design focuses on creating the tools and equipment needed for manufacturing, while Manufacturing Engineering involves planning and improving the overall production process. Both roles are essential in manufacturing industries but differ in their core responsibilities and work environments.

What is a tool designer?

Tool designers are professionals who create and develop tools, dies, jigs, fixtures, and other devices used in manufacturing processes. Their main role is to design tools that enable efficient, precise, and cost-effective production of parts and products. Tool designers typically work closely with engineers, machinists, and production staff to ensure the tools meet specific requirements and are manufacturable. They use computer-aided design (CAD) software and have a strong understanding of materials, manufacturing methods, and production workflows.
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What states have the most Tool Design jobs?

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What job categories do people searching Tool Design jobs look for?

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Tool Design jobs near you
Infographic showing various Tool Design job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 88% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $90,449 per year, or $43.5 per hour.

Staff Engineer, Tool Design (R4967)

Shield AI

Dallas, TX

$120K - $190K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

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, V-BAT and X-BAT aircraft, and Aechelon simulation and synthetic reality technologies. 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.
 
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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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