Principal Tool Design Engineer — Aerospace Tools

Northrop Grumman Corp.; Palmdale (CA); On-site; USD 83,000 - 155,000; Full time

Job summary

Northrop Grumman Corp. in Palmdale, CA, seeks a Tool Engineer or Principal Tool Engineer to design and build complex tools and fixtures.

The role requires CAD experience (NX/Mastercam/SolidWorks) and knowledge of dies, molds, and gaging, with proficiency in machine shop practices. You will supervise tests, collaborate with engineering teams, and ensure safety standards compliance while delivering precise tooling for energetic materials.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree with 1 year of manufacturing or tool design experience OR Master’s Degree with 0 years of experience.
• Experience creating drawings to be used in manufacturing following industry standards.
• Experience in machine shop practices and knowledge of material properties and heat treatments.
• Familiarity with Dies, Molds, Gaging, fixtures, and machine design.
• Experience with press tooling, hydraulic and pneumatic presses.
• Proficiency in CAD software NX, Mastercam, and SolidWorks.

Responsibilities

• Plan, design, document and oversee the build of complex tools and assemblies.
• Create designs and drawings for tooling to be built and used in production.
• Supervise test and assembly of new designs and adapt equipment for specific purposes.
• Collaborate with engineering, technicians and management throughout the design process.
• Ensure compliance with safety standards and maintain drawing records.

Skills

Mechanical aptitude

Attention to detail

Effective communication

Time management

Problem solving

Works with ambiguity

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

NX

Mastercam

SolidWorks

Job description

Northrop Grumman Corp. in Palmdale, CA, seeks a Tool Engineer or Principal Tool Engineer to design and build complex tools and fixtures.

The role requires CAD experience (NX/Mastercam/SolidWorks) and knowledge of dies, molds, and gaging, with proficiency in machine shop practices. You will supervise tests, collaborate with engineering teams, and ensure safety standards compliance while delivering precise tooling for energetic materials.