Digital Hardware Engineering LeadLocation

GKN; Barrow-in-Furness; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading aerospace manufacturer is seeking experienced Tool Designers to join their team in Barrow-in-Furness. The successful candidate will develop tooling solutions for complex design challenges from concept to production and work with a focus on quality and safety. A strong background in CAD software, specifically CATIA V5, is required along with significant experience in tool design for composite moulds. Competitive salary and various employee benefits offered.

Benefits

Relocation support within the UK

Competitive salary dependent on experience

Industry-leading pension scheme

Life assurance of 8× salary

190 hours holiday plus bank holidays

Income protection

Shopping discounts

Cycle-to-work scheme

Employee Assistance Programme

Qualifications

• Significant experience in tool design for composite moulds and assembly jigs.
• Demonstrable experience in CAD software, ideally CATIA V5.
• Knowledge of quality system models (ISO 9000, AS 9100, or D1‑9000).

Responsibilities

• Develop tooling solutions for complex design challenges.
• Design tooling with high process capability using CATIA V5.
• Continuously improve production processes by implementing Lean initiatives.

Skills

Tool design for composite moulds

Proficiency in CAD software (CATIA V5)

Experience with root cause analysis

Implementation of Lean initiatives

Understanding of ERP systems

Knowledge of quality system models

Education

HNC qualification in engineering or equivalent

Job description

Job Overview

GKN Aerospace is seeking experienced Tool Designers to join our thriving team at East Cowes, Isle of Wight. The role reports to the Manufacturing Engineer Manager and supports a team of 6‑10 manufacturing engineers. The position requires limited ad‑hoc travel nationally and internationally.

Responsibilities

• Develop tooling solutions (mould tools, 5‑axis fixtures, assembly jigs, shop aids) for complex design challenges from concept to production.
• Design tooling with high process capability using CATIA V5 and the GKN Zero Defect Manufacturing (ZDM) tool suite.
• Manage tool fabrication quotes, input tooling for new product quotes, and coordinate tooling configuration changes involving cost estimation and scheduling.
• Apply a safety‑first mindset and ensure compliance with GKN Aerospace Health, Safety and Environmental policies and standards.
• Use root cause analysis, preventative and corrective actions to reduce or eliminate non‑conformances.
• Continuously improve production processes by implementing Lean initiatives.

Qualifications

• HNC qualification in an engineering‑related subject or equivalent.
• Significant experience in tool design for composite moulds and assembly jigs, with a design‑for‑manufacture focus.
• Demonstrable experience in CAD software, ideally CATIA V5.
• Experience addressing supply‑chain issues, both internal and external.
• Knowledge of quality system models (ISO 9000, AS 9100, or D1‑9000).
• Background in the aerospace industry.
• Familiarity with APQP (e.g., AS 9145) or equivalent.
• Understanding of ERP system usage.
• Experience interpreting aged drawings.

What We Offer

• Relocation support within the UK.
• Competitive salary dependent on experience.
• Industry‑leading pension scheme (matching up to 8% on a 1:1.5 basis).
• Life assurance of 8× salary.
• 190 hours holiday plus bank holidays.
• Income protection.
• Shopping discounts.
• Cycle‑to‑work scheme.
• Employee Assistance Programme.