Job Description & Details
Tooling engineering in aerospace is booming as manufacturers chase lighter, stronger aircraft while meeting strict safety standards. Companies are investing heavily in advanced fixtures and precision equipment to stay competitive, making skilled tooling engineers highly sought after. This contract role offers a chance to work on cutting‑edge aircraft tooling projects and drive real process improvements.
Job Summary
We are looking for a Tooling Engineer to design, develop, and improve fixtures, tooling, and equipment used in aircraft manufacturing. The role involves close collaboration with engineering and production teams, support for new product introductions, and continuous improvement of manufacturing processes using CAD and PLM tools.
Top 3 Critical Skills Table
| Skill | Why it's critical | Mastery Level |
|---|---|---|
| CAD (CATIA) | Enables accurate 3D tooling models for aircraft parts | Senior |
| Tooling Design & Development | Core responsibility to create fixtures that meet aerospace tolerances | Senior |
| Aerospace Manufacturing Standards | Ensures compliance with safety and quality regulations | Mid |
Interview Preparation
- How do you approach designing a new fixture for an aerospace component?
What the interviewer is looking for: Understanding of design methodology, tolerance analysis, material selection, and integration with existing production lines. - Describe a time you used CATIA to solve a complex tooling problem. What was the outcome?
What the interviewer is looking for: Hands‑on CAD expertise, problem‑solving skills, and measurable impact. - What are the key aerospace standards (e.g., AS9100) that affect tooling design, and how do you ensure compliance?
What the interviewer is looking for: Knowledge of industry standards and practical steps for documentation and verification. - Explain how you would implement a continuous‑improvement initiative for a recurring tooling issue.
What the interviewer is looking for: Use of Lean/Six Sigma tools, data‑driven analysis, and change‑management experience. - How do you collaborate with production teams to validate a new tool before full‑scale rollout?
What the interviewer is looking for: Communication skills, pilot testing procedures, and feedback incorporation.
Resume Optimization
- Tooling Engineer
- Aerospace manufacturing
- CATIA
- CAD design
- PLM systems
- New product introduction (NPI)
- Lean manufacturing
- Six Sigma
- Machining & composites
- AS9100 compliance
Application Strategy
When reaching out to the recruiter, send a concise email that starts with a polite greeting, attaches your up‑to‑date resume, and clearly highlights your top relevant skills. Make sure to mention related skills you possess, such as CAD (CATIA) expertise, tooling design experience, and familiarity with aerospace standards. Also reference any projects where you drove process improvements or supported new product introductions.
Career Roadmap
| Current Role | Typical Experience | Core Focus | Next Position |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tooling Engineer | 3‑5 years in aerospace tooling | Design, CAD, compliance | Senior Tooling Engineer |
| Senior Tooling Engineer | 5‑8 years, lead projects | Advanced design, team mentorship | Tooling Engineering Manager |
| Tooling Engineering Manager | 8‑12 years, cross‑functional leadership | Strategy, program ownership | Director of Manufacturing |
| Director of Manufacturing | 12+ years, enterprise‑wide oversight | Business growth, technology roadmap | VP of Operations |