Lead Fixture Builder

Waltonen Engineering Inc.; Troy (MI); Hybrid; USD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance

Vacation and Holiday pay

Employer matching 401K

Hybrid work schedule after 90 days

Tuition Reimbursement

Flexible Spending Programs (FSAs)

Short-Term & Long-Term Disability insurance

Employee Referral Program

Additional Voluntary Benefit Programs

Off-site company events & Employee Luncheons

Job summary

Waltonen Engineering Inc. is seeking a Lead Fixture Builder in Troy, Michigan to join their team. This role involves building and assembling fixtures, interpreting blueprints, and managing the fixture build department. A solid understanding of tooling and assembly methods, along with collaboration skills, are necessary for success.

The ideal candidate will have at least 1 year of experience in fixture/tool building and be familiar with automotive/aerospace tooling. The position offers medical, dental, vision insurance, 401K matching, and a hybrid work schedule after 90 days.

Qualifications

• 1+ year of experience in Fixture/Tool Building.
• Knowledge of machining and assembly methods is required.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints is essential.

Responsibilities

• Build and assemble fixtures, jigs, gauges, and tooling.
• Manage day-to-day operations of the fixture build department.
• Collaborate with engineering and manufacturing teams for project completion.

Skills

Fixture/Tool Building

Blueprint reading

Knowledge of materials

Machining and assembly methods

Familiarity with automotive and aerospace tooling

Problem solving

Job description

Independence Tooling is actively seeking a Lead Fixture Builder to join our team!

Responsibilities

• Build and assemble fixtures, jigs, gauges, and tooling according to engineering drawings, CAD models, and specifications.
• Interpret blueprints, GD&T requirements, and technical documentation to ensure accurate fixture construction and assembly.
• Manage day‑to‑day operations of the fixture build department in a small‑shop environment, balancing hands‑on fixture construction with team leadership, scheduling, and project coordination.
• Serve as the primary technical resource for fixture builds, collaborating with engineering and manufacturing teams to ensure projects are completed on time, within budget, and to customer specifications.
• Perform precision fitting, alignment, and adjustment of fixture components to meet required tolerances and quality standards.
• Operate hand tools, power tools, and machining equipment to fabricate, modify, and repair fixture components.
• Conduct functional testing and verification of completed fixtures to ensure proper operation and repeatability.
• Troubleshoot and resolve fixture‑related issues to minimize production downtime and maintain manufacturing efficiency.

Qualifications

• 1+ year of Fixture/Tool Building
• Knowledge of materials, machining, assembly method and mathematics
• Familiar with automotive and aerospace tooling, jigs, fixtures, and gauges
• Ability to read blueprints
• Prior assembly experience required

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in aerospace, automotive, or defense

Benefits

• Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance
• Vacation and Holiday pay
• Employer matching 401K
• Hybrid work schedule after 90 days for eligible positions
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Flexible Spending Programs (FSAs)
• Short‑Term & Long‑Term Disability insurance
• Employee Referral Program
• Additional Voluntary Benefit Programs
• Off‑site company events & Employee Luncheons

Who are we?

Independence Tooling is a leader in high‑precision custom tooling, jigs, and assembly equipment for the automotive, aerospace, heavy machinery, defense, and energy industries. Our in‑house capabilities meet the most stringent industry requirements and deliver high‑quality cost‑effective solutions. Encouraged by the team approach we foster, our craftsmen proudly commit themselves to meeting client needs on time and within budget.

Waltonen Engineering, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer and will consider qualified applicants for all positions without regard to race, color, sex, religion, national origin, age, marital status, weight, height, or the presence of a non‑job‑related medical condition or handicap.