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Tool Development Engineer Jobs in Rancho Cucamonga, CA

Tool Clerk

Rancho Cucamonga, CA · On-site

$16 - $21/hr

Work closely with purchasing and engineering departments. * Expedite tooling orders in the Tool ... Career Growth and Professional Development Opportunities Disclaimer : Benefits eligibility, accrual ...

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Tool Development Engineer information

See Rancho Cucamonga, CA salary details

$50.1K

$98.3K

$156.9K

How much do tool development engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for tool development engineer in Rancho Cucamonga, CA is $98,262.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,200.00 and $108,800.00 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 Rancho Cucamonga, CA?

For Tool Development Engineer jobs in Rancho Cucamonga, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Rancho Cucamonga, CA are hiring for Tool Development Engineer jobs?

Cities near Rancho Cucamonga, CA with the most Tool Development Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Tool Development Engineer job openings in Rancho Cucamonga, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $98,262 per year, or $47.2 per hour.

Research & Development Manufacturing Engineer-Adelanto, California

Phelan, CA • On-site

General Atomics
Space Research Administration • 10K+ employees

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago


General Atomics rating

9.0

Company rating: 9.0 out of 10

Based on 39 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Job Summary
General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI), an affiliate of General Atomics, is a world leader in proven, reliable remotely piloted aircraft and tactical reconnaissance radars, as well as advanced high-resolution surveillance systems. We have an exciting opportunity for an Experienced Manufacturing Engineer at our GA-ASI Research and Development facility in the High Desert.
Our Adelanto facility has an exciting opportunity for a Research & Development Manufacturing Engineer to join their team. As part of the Research and Development Manufacturing Engineering Team, the primary responsibility of this position is to provide comprehensive manufacturing support for various prototype and pre-production programs. More specifically, this role involves working in a multi-disciplinary team to develop, implement, and see through to completion, effective tooling and manufacturing approaches to execute program objectives on new and/or existing projects ranging from one-off parts, to composite pod structures, to complete aircraft builds.
This role involves being the primary leader in linking program expectations with manufacturing execution. This includes taking ownership of Design for Manufacturability (DFM) input, part/assembly and tooling estimates, tooling acquisition, coordinating part manufacturing with the respective work centers, investigating and solving manufacturing and engineering issues, and continuous improvement opportunities.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Responsible for providing Manufacturing Engineering support to GA-ASI programs/projects such as one-off part builds, pod composite assemblies and complete aircraft builds
  • Primarily function as a program/project-centered Manufacturing Engineer
  • Devise and implement manufacturing and tooling solutions for new and/or existing projects
  • Regularly interface with multi-disciplinary teams to execute project objectives
  • Provide proactive manufacturing solutions through tool design and part design/CAD review
  • Provide tooling and part estimates for a wide range of manufacturing efforts
  • Lead effort for acquiring and implementing tooling for respective projects
  • Oversee and provide direct on-the-floor support for part manufacturing and composite assembly
  • Coordinate metrology of parts, assemblies, and tooling
  • Design and incorporate shop aids to facilitate manufacturing
  • Author and incorporate manufacturing work instructions
  • Lead and/or participate in continuous improvement activities
  • May support new process development activities
  • Maintains strict confidentiality of sensitive information
  • Responsible for observing all laws, regulations, and other applicable obligations wherever and whenever business is conducted on behalf of the Company
  • Expected to work in a safe manner in accordance with established operating procedures and practices.
We recognize and appreciate the value and contributions of individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences and welcome all qualified individuals to apply.
Job Qualifications
  • Typically requires a bachelors degree, masters degree or PhD in engineering or a related technical discipline from an accredited institution and progressive engineering experience as follows; four or more years of experience with a bachelors degree or two or more years of experience with a masters degree. May substitute equivalent engineering experience in lieu of education
  • Hands on experience with composite and metallic airframe fabrication and assembly.
  • Must have a complete understanding of engineering concepts, principles, codes, and theory; experience demonstrating a broad application of those concepts; and, expanding knowledge of principles, concepts, theory, and practices in related technical specialties.
  • Must possess the ability to understand new concepts quickly; apply them accurately throughout an evolving environment; organize, schedule, and coordinate work phases; and, determine the appropriate approach at the task level or, with assistance, at the project level to provide solutions to a range of complex problems.
  • Must have excellent communication, computer, documentation, presentation, and interpersonal skills, ability to work independently and as part of a team; able to perform complex tasks in one engineering area; and, lead a team of less experienced professional employees on semi-routine tasks.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain DoD Clearance is required.

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About General Atomics

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

General Atomics (GA), and its affiliated companies, is one of the world's leading resources for high-technology systems development ranging from the nuclear fuel cycle to remotely piloted aircraft, airborne sensors, and advanced electric, electronic, wireless and laser technologies.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

San Diego, CA, US

Year founded

1955