Jig and Fixture Designer

GKN; Kingston; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading aerospace engineering company in the UK is seeking an experienced Tool Designer to develop tooling solutions for high-performance composite structures. The role requires significant experience in tool design, proficiency in CAD software such as Catia V5, and a strong understanding of Lean methodologies. You will work within a collaborative team and contribute to innovative aerospace projects, all while ensuring compliance with safety standards. A competitive salary and benefits are offered, making it an exciting opportunity for engineering professionals.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Industry-leading pension scheme

Life assurance

Holiday allowance

Income protection

Shopping discounts

Cycle-to-work scheme

Employee assistance programme

UK relocation support

Qualifications

• Significant experience in tool design for composite moulds and assembly jigs.
• Demonstrable experience with CAD software, ideally Catia V5.
• Experience addressing supply chain issues.

Responsibilities

• Develop tooling solutions from concept through production.
• Design tooling using the GKN Zero-Defect Manufacturing tool suite.
• Ensure compliance with safety and environmental policies.

Skills

Tool design

Lean thinking

Catia V5

Problem-solving

Education

HNC qualification in an engineering-related subject

Tools

CAD software

ERP system

Job description

Job Summary

Join GKN Aerospace’s East Cowes manufacturing team on the Isle of Wight as an experienced Tool Designer. You will design and develop tooling solutions for high‑performance composite structures for a global aerospace customer base.

Job Responsibilities

• Develop tooling solutions (mould tools, 5‑axis fixtures, assembly jigs, shop aids) from concept through production.
• Design tooling for high process capability using Catia V5 and the GKN Zero‑Defect Manufacturing (ZDM) tool suite.
• Accountable for tool fabrication quotes, tooling input for new product quotes and tooling configuration changes including cost estimation and schedule coordination.
• Exemplify a safety‑first mind‑set and ensure compliance with GKN Aerospace Health, Safety and Environmental policies and standards.
• Utilise root cause analysis, preventative and corrective action to reduce/eliminate non‑conformances.
• Continuously improve production processes by implementing Lean initiatives.

How You’ll Contribute

• Bring passion and talent for tool design in a high‑growth aerospace environment.
• Work collaboratively with a team of 6–10 Manufacturing Engineers and adapt to limited ad‑hoc travel.
• Apply lean thinking and problem‑solving skills to deliver efficient, cost‑effective tooling solutions.

Qualifications

• HNC qualification in an engineering‑related subject or equivalent.
• Significant experience in tool design related to composite moulds and assembly jigs, and Design for Manufacture (DFM).
• Demonstrable experience with CAD software, ideally Catia V5.
• Experience addressing issues within the supply chain, both internal and external.
• Desirable: working knowledge of quality system models such as ISO 9000, AS‑9100, or D1‑9000.
• Background in the aerospace industry.
• Familiarity with AS 9145 APQP process or equivalent.
• Understanding and use of an ERP system.
• Experience interpreting aged drawings.
• Note: Some GKN programmes are subject to regulatory restrictions which may impact certain nationalities; you will be asked to declare this during the application process.

Benefits

• Competitive salary dependent on experience.
• Industry‑leading pension scheme – match up to 8% on a 1:1.5 basis.
• Life assurance 8× salary.
• 190 hours holiday plus bank holidays.
• Income protection.
• Shopping discounts.
• Cycle‑to‑work scheme.
• Employee assistance programme.
• UK relocation support available (if applicable).
• Collaborative, dynamic working environment.

Additional Information

GKN Aerospace is reimagining air travel, going further, faster and greener. We commit to sustainability, diversity, inclusion, and belonging, and have been recognised for our workplace culture.

Apply

Apply now to join a leading aerospace engineering company that pushes the boundaries of innovation.