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Staff Engineer, Tool Design (R6296)

Shield AI· Aircraft Operations Division – Manufacturing Engineering
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Seattle, WA$150k - $230kFull Time EmployeePosted 1mo ago

About the role

Senior Tool Design Engineer responsible for end-to-end tooling development for complex aerospace systems, ensuring safe, repeatable, first-time-right assembly from concept through prove-out in collaboration with Manufacturing, Quality, and Safety.

Responsibilities

  • 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.

Qualifications

  • 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.

Skills

Required:CATIA / NX / SolidWorks3DEXPERIENCE / TeamcenterFEAGD&TMetrology

Benefits

  • Bonus
  • Benefits
  • Equity
Last updated Oct 23, 2026. Interested? Apply on the company site.

About Shield AI

Autonomy for the world.

Our mission is to protect service members and civilians with intelligent systems.

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