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Tool Designer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Tool Maker/ CNC Machinist

Ashburn, VA

$21 - $28.75/hr

L3Harris provides an inclusive, engaging environment designed to empower employees and promote work ... Tool Maker B Job Code: 41610 Job Location: Ashburn, VA Job Schedule: 9/80: Employees work 9 out of ...

Tool Maker/ CNC Machinist

Ashburn, VA · On-site

$30.29 - $56.25/hr

L3Harris provides an inclusive, engaging environment designed to empower employees and promote work ... Tool Maker B Job Code: 41610 Job Location: Ashburn, VA Job Schedule: 9/80: Employees work 9 out of ...

AWS Responsible for the designing and developing automated application builds and deployments ... Continuous Deployment tool sets: AnthillPro, uDeploy etc... Scripting: Perl, shell, python, ruby ...

AWS Responsible for the designing and developing automated application builds and deployments ... Continuous Deployment tool sets: AnthillPro, uDeploy etc... Scripting: Perl, shell, python, ruby ...

Showing results 41-60

Tool Designer information

See Virginia salary details

$23

$37

$50

How much do tool designer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for tool designer in Virginia is $37.77, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $30.96 and $44.09 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Tool Designer vs Machinist?

AspectTool DesignerMachinist
CredentialsTechnical degree or certification in manufacturing or engineeringHigh school diploma or equivalent; technical training often preferred
Work EnvironmentDesign offices, CAD software, collaborative teamsMachine shops, manufacturing floors, workshop settings
Industry UsageUsed in manufacturing, engineering, product developmentUsed in machining, fabrication, production
Primary FocusDesigning tools, fixtures, and jigsOperating machines to produce parts

Tool Designers focus on creating and developing tools and fixtures using CAD software, working mainly in design environments. Machinists operate manufacturing equipment to produce parts based on specifications. While both roles are essential in manufacturing, Tool Designers concentrate on design, whereas Machinists focus on production and operation of machinery.

What are some common challenges tool designers face when collaborating with manufacturing teams?

Tool Designers often need to balance innovative design concepts with the practical constraints of manufacturing processes and deadlines. Communication with machinists and production engineers is essential to ensure that tools are not only functional but also manufacturable and cost-effective. Challenges can include adapting designs based on feedback, managing changes during prototyping, and ensuring all safety and quality standards are met. Building strong relationships with the manufacturing team and staying open to iterative improvements are key to overcoming these challenges.

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

To thrive as a Tool Designer, you need strong skills in mechanical design, CAD software proficiency, and an understanding of manufacturing processes, usually backed by a degree in engineering or a related field. Familiarity with industry-standard tools like SolidWorks, AutoCAD, and knowledge of GD&T are commonly required, along with relevant certifications such as Certified SolidWorks Professional (CSWP). Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are crucial soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure that tools are designed for optimal functionality, manufacturability, and collaboration with cross-functional teams.

What does a tool designer do?

A tool designer works in a machine shop or factory using a variety of methods to conceptualize and construct forms referred to as dies. In this role, you may work with blueprints or computer software such as CAD to create products and equipment according to customer specifications. Your responsibilities include the manufacturing of fixtures, molds, and jigs for die casting or molding other materials. Your duties also involve complying with the company’s safety policies and any regulations that may apply when using the equipment. The nature of this job is hazardous, making the use of protective gear imperative.

What is a tool designer?

Tool Designers are professionals who specialize in creating designs and specifications for tools, dies, jigs, fixtures, and other equipment used in manufacturing processes. They use engineering principles and computer-aided design (CAD) software to ensure that tools are efficient, durable, and tailored to the production requirements of a specific product or process. Tool Designers work closely with engineers, machinists, and production teams to optimize manufacturing efficiency and product quality.
What are popular job titles related to Tool Designer jobs in VA? For Tool Designer jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Tool Designer job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $78,565 per year, or $37.8 per hour.

$21 - $28.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description

L3Harris is dedicated to recruiting and developing high-performing talent who are passionate about what they do. Our employees are unified in a shared dedication to our customers' mission and quest for professional growth. L3Harris provides an inclusive, engaging environment designed to empower employees and promote work-life success. Fundamental to our culture is an unwavering focus on values, dedication to our communities, and commitment to excellence in everything we do.

L3Harris is the Trusted Disruptor in defense tech. With customers' mission-critical needs always in mind, our employees deliver end-to-end technology solutions connecting the space, air, land, sea and cyber domains in the interest of national security.

Job Title: Tool Maker B

Job Code: 41610

Job Location: Ashburn, VA

Job Schedule: 9/80: Employees work 9 out of every 14 days - totaling 80 hours worked - and have every other Friday off

Job Description:

The Tool Maker will be responsible for the programming, setup and operation of CNC machine tools to produce prototype and production parts in a rapid-paced environment. A broad range of experience with manual and CNC machine tools, shop operations, tooling, materials and inspection is desired. The successful candidate will have strong interpersonal skills and will be expected to coordinate with engineering, manufacturing, and quality control within Unmanned Systems to accomplish program goals.

Essential Functions:

  • Familiarity with MAZAK Variaxis 1600's machine

  • Proficient in the independent setup and operation of 3-axis or similar commercial grade CNC milling machines to include fixturing (vise and sub-plate) and tooling

  • Proficient in the ability to read and interpret drawings with a thorough understanding of Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing per ANSI Y 14.5

  • Proficient in the use of basic inspection equipment to check machined parts per ANSI Y 14.5

  • Experience with machining a broad range of materials including aluminum, superalloys, engineering plastics and composites

  • Proficient in the use of manual machine tools (mill, lathe, drill press, band saw) to support CNC machine setup and operation

  • Maintain a clean and organized work area and follow established safety protocols and standard operating procedures

  • Collaborate with engineering, quality, and production teams to resolve technical issues and improve machining processes

  • Document job setups and recommend process improvements to reduce setup time and increase repeatability

  • Safely complete all physical activities required in a manufacturing environment including, but not limited to:

    • Move, transport, position and/or remove 25-50 pounds on a regular basis

    • Move, be stationary, traverse, and reach for prolonged periods of time on a regular basis

    • Ability to seize, grasp, turn, hold, and operate manufacturing tools and equipment

    • Willingness and ability to work in a manufacturing environment with regular exposure to moving mechanical parts, dust, fumes, chemicals, and loud noises

Qualifications:

  • Requires a High School Diploma or equivalent and a minimum of 4 years of prior relevant experience or 2 years post-Secondary/Associates Degree with 0 to 2 years of prior related experience.

Preferred Additional Skills:

  • Minimum of 5 years of experience in CNC machining and MasterCAM; formal apprenticeship and training.

  • Proficient with the independent setup and operation of 4 and 5 axis CNC milling machines and controls.

  • Proficient with independent programming of 4 and 5-axis CNC machines.

  • Proficient with the independent setup and operation of CNC lathes or turning centers including conversational programming, tooling and machine setup.

In compliance with pay transparency requirements, the salary range for this role in Virginia (Greater D.C. area) is $30.29- $56.25. This is not a guarantee of compensation or salary, as final offer amount may vary based on factors including but not limited to experience and geographic location. L3Harris also offers a variety of benefits, including health and disability insurance, 401(k) match, flexible spending accounts, EAP, education assistance, parental leave, paid time off, and company-paid holidays. The specific programs and options available to an employee may vary depending on date of hire, schedule type, and the applicability of collective bargaining agreements.

#LI-AG1

L3Harris Technologies is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. L3Harris is committed to treating all employees and applicants for employment with respect and dignity and maintaining a workplace that is free from unlawful discrimination. All applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, national origin, ancestry, ethnicity, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding or other related medical conditions), gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, marital status, veteran status, disability, genetic information, citizenship status, characteristic or membership in any other group protected by federal, state or local laws. L3Harris maintains a drug-free workplace and performs pre-employment substance abuse testing and background checks, where permitted by law.

Please be aware many of our positions require the ability to obtain a security clearance. Security clearances may only be granted to U.S. citizens. In addition, applicants who accept a conditional offer of employment may be subject to government security investigation(s) and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information.

By submitting your resume for this position, you understand and agree that L3Harris Technologies may share your resume, as well as any other related personal information or documentation you provide, with its subsidiaries and affiliated companies for the purpose of considering you for other available positions.

L3Harris Technologies is an E-Verify Employer. Please click here for the E-Verify Poster in English or Spanish. For information regarding your Right To Work, please click here for English or Spanish.

Employment Type: Full-Time