Tool Design Engineer - Level 3 or Level 4

Northrop Grumman Northrop Grumman · Aerospace · San Diego, CA +1 · Material/Process

Tool Design Engineer at Northrop Grumman, responsible for designing and developing complex composite manufacturing and test tooling. This involves creating, prototyping, and analyzing tools and fixtures using CAD software and analytical tools, collaborating with manufacturing and test teams, and supporting design reviews and hardware procurement. The role requires a BS in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering with experience in structural design, product definition, and aerospace materials/assembly methods.

What you'd actually do

  1. Create, prototype, design, and analyze tools and fixtures for manufacturing and testing of composite parts and assemblies. Tools include layup molds, precision assembly fixtures, Ground Support Equipment (GSE), and test fixtures
  2. Develop and refine components and subsystems utilizing design skills, hand calculations, CAD modeling software and analytical tools
  3. Perform detailed 3D designs and generate 2D engineering drawings
  4. Participate and present in internal and external (customer) design reviews. Includes generation of presentation media for PDR, CDR, and MRR type reviews
  5. Support manufacturing and test of fixtures and hardware as required

Skills

Required

  • Bachelors of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering or Aerospace Engineering
  • five (5) years working in a structural design field (for Level 3)
  • eight (8) years working in a structural design field (for Level 4)
  • Aerospace experience with product definition and design
  • Understanding of specifications, SOW's, drawings, ICD compliance
  • Understanding of aerospace materials and assembly methods (bonding/fastening)
  • Ability to perform design of complex, multi-piece tool assemblies
  • Experience in CAD and PLM systems, such as Siemens NX and Teamcenter
  • Experience in drawing generation, with practical knowledge and use of GD&T
  • Experience with Design for Manufacturability (DFM) principles and mistake-proofing techniques
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Government clearance

Nice to have

  • Extensive experience with aerospace tooling, including composite layup molds, precision assembly fixtures, and Ground Support Equipment (GSE)
  • Extensive experience with composite/metallic assemblies including bonded/fastened joints and associated materials, adhesives and fasteners
  • Demonstrated initiative and strong interpersonal skills, thriving both independently and collaboratively within a team environment
  • Experience with composite manufacturing processes and applications (layup, machining, bonding & assembly)
  • Active Government clearance

What the JD emphasized

  • Must have the ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Government clearance