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# Staff Engineer, Tool Design (R4967)

- **Company:** Shield AI
- **Location:** Dallas, TX, United States
- **Experience:** Expert
- **Contract:** Temporary contract
- **Skills:** 3d Models, Computer Aided Three-Dimensional Interactive Application (CATIA), SolidWorks (CAD), Enovia, Teamcenter (Software)
- **Published:** October 16, 2026
- **Apply:** https://www.thejobnetwork.com/job/24f6709b-da29-453e-ab93-4244f3db9658/staff-engineer-tool-design-r

## About the Role

* 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.

## Description

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.