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Tool Development Engineer Jobs in Cambridge, MA (NOW HIRING)

Senior VLSI CAD Software Engineer

Westford, MA · On-site

$127K - $167K/yr

They are seeking a talented Software Engineer to build custom, high-impact VLSI CAD software ... in CAD/EDA tool development • Skill in CAD data structures and algorithms, especially for ...

... tool development • Experience debugging software without source code • Knowledge of binary file structures and formats • Experience analyzing protocols or message structures • Knowledge of ...

... tool development • Experience debugging software without source code • Knowledge of binary file structures and formats • Experience analyzing protocols or message structures • Knowledge of ...

... and tool development to support multiple robotic platforms supporting growing customer projects ... Collaborate with software developers to develop tests that verify performance of new robot ...

Automated reverse engineering or software analysis tool development * Experience debugging software without source code * Knowledge of binary file structures and formats * Experience analyzing ...

... Python for tool development, automation, and integration • Familiarity with emulation and ... engineering best practices (e.g., modular design, testing, code review) • Experience using ...

... Python for tool development, automation, and integration • Familiarity with emulation and ... engineering best practices (e.g., modular design, testing, code review) • Experience using ...

Showing results 41-60

Tool Development Engineer information

See Cambridge, MA salary details

$53.6K

$105.1K

$167.8K

How much do tool development engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for tool development engineer in Cambridge, MA is $105,095.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $86,900.00 and $116,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a tool development engineer?

Tool Development Engineers are professionals who design, develop, and maintain tools, software, or equipment used to optimize production processes or support engineering teams. Their responsibilities often include understanding user requirements, creating prototypes, testing tools, and improving existing solutions to enhance efficiency and quality. They work closely with manufacturing, software, or hardware teams, depending on the industry. Tool Development Engineers play a critical role in increasing productivity and ensuring the reliability of tools used in various technical environments.

What are some common challenges faced by tool development engineers when collaborating with cross-functional teams?

Tool Development Engineers often work closely with software developers, QA testers, and product managers to create and refine tools. A common challenge is balancing differing priorities, such as development speed versus tool robustness or user-friendliness. Effective communication and flexibility are key to understanding and addressing the unique needs of each team. Regular feedback sessions and clear documentation help ensure that the tools developed meet the evolving requirements of all stakeholders.

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

To thrive as a Tool Development Engineer, you need a solid background in engineering principles, programming languages (such as Python, C++, or Java), and a relevant degree in computer science, engineering, or a related field. Familiarity with CAD software, version control systems, and automation tools, as well as certifications in relevant frameworks, are typically expected. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication enable collaboration and innovative tool design. These competencies are crucial for developing efficient, reliable tools that optimize engineering workflows and support organizational productivity.

What is the difference between Tool Development Engineer vs Manufacturing Engineer?

AspectTool Development EngineerManufacturing Engineer
Primary FocusDesigning, developing, and optimizing tools and equipment used in manufacturing processesPlanning, implementing, and improving manufacturing processes and workflows
Skills & CertificationsMechanical design, CAD, problem-solving, certifications like Six Sigma or LeanProcess engineering, project management, certifications like Six Sigma or Lean
Work EnvironmentDesign labs, manufacturing plants, R&D facilitiesFactories, production lines, plant floor
Industry UsageCommon in automotive, aerospace, electronics manufacturingWidely used across various manufacturing sectors including consumer goods and industrial equipment

While both roles support manufacturing operations, the Tool Development Engineer primarily focuses on creating and improving tools and equipment, whereas the Manufacturing Engineer concentrates on optimizing entire production processes. Understanding these distinctions helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What are popular job titles related to Tool Development Engineer jobs in Cambridge, MA?

For Tool Development Engineer jobs in Cambridge, MA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Tool Development Engineer jobs in Cambridge, MA look for?

The top searched job categories for Tool Development Engineer jobs in Cambridge, MA are:

Infographic showing various Tool Development Engineer job openings in Cambridge, MA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $105,095 per year, or $50.5 per hour.

Computational Design Engineer Co-Op Spring 2027

Specter Aerospace

Peabody, MA • On-site

Other

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

Role Summary: 

Specter Aerospace is seeking a Computational Design Engineer Co-Op (4-6+ month cycle) to support the design and analysis of high-speed airbreathing testbed vehicles. A successful candidate for this position will be driven and passionate about computational design. 



About Specter Aerospace: 

Specter Aerospace is building the next generation of hypersonic vehicles for U.S. Forces and Allies. Specter is headquartered just north of Boston in Peabody, MA where it leverages its advanced propulsion technologies, manufacturing, and testing capabilities to rapidly develop supersonic and hypersonic systems. Funded by a mix of government R&D organizations and private funding, Specter is expanding its team in preparation for flight testing and full-scale production.  

Role Responsibilities 

  • Work in a fast-paced environment making reusable computational geometry models to take hypersonic vehicles from requirements to design 
  • Support design and analysis tool development to aid in the succesful development of high-speed systems 
  • Collaborate with mechanical, design, aerodynamics, propulsion, and software engineers to define I/O and create parametric geometry models that connect to analysis tools 

Required Qualifications: 

  • Pursuing a bachelor’s or master’s degree in engineering, Math, Computer Science, Physics, or other related discipline 
  • Prior experience using any computational design software (Rhino/Grasshopper, nTop, PicoGK, NX Implicit Modeling, Altair Implicit Modeling etc.) 
  • Familiary with implicit modeling concepts (signed distance functions, level sets, Boolean operations, inversions, differential geometry) 
  • Previous CAD/design experience in a technical shop, lab, or a student organization 
  • Comfort with project autonomy and fast-paced work environments 
  • Strong collaborative skills and a drive to produce quality work 
  • Strong communication skills to clarify scope and requirements when working with other engineers. 
  • Familiarity with mechanical engineering and physics principles (statics, materials, thermo/fluids, etc…) 
  • Eligible to obtain and maintain a U.S. Secret security clearance (U.S. Citizenship required) 
  • Ability to pass a pre-employment drug screen and background check 



Preferred Qualifications: 

  • Previous professional or student team leadership experience relevant to the requirements for this position 
  • Experience with at least one programming language 
  • Prior experience with additive manufacturing 
  • Amateur rocketry or model aircraft experience 
  • Prior FEA/CFD experience 
  • Prior topology optimization experience 
  • Prior DFAM/DFM experience 
  • Experience with large and complex models in a computational design software 


EEO Statement:  

 All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.