Senior Aerospace Tooling Design Engineer

Shield; Dallas (TX); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Benefits

Equity

Bonus

Job summary

Shield AI in Dallas, TX is seeking a Senior Tool Design Engineer with 7+ years of experience to own tooling throughout its lifecycle, from concept through prove-out, supporting pilot builds to rate production.

You will collaborate with Manufacturing, Quality, and Safety to deliver robust tooling and ensure first-time-right assembly, with emphasis on GD&T, ergonomics, and compliance. The role requires strong CAD and analysis skills in CATIA/NX/SolidWorks.

Qualifications

• 7+ years of experience in tooling design, mechanical design, or manufacturing engineering.
• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Aerospace, Industrial, Mechatronics, or related engineering field.
• Experience in prototype manufacturing in a startup or rapid-growth environment.
• Strong understanding of manufacturing processes, including machining, composites, avionics and/or assembly.
• Demonstrated ability to work in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment and adapt to changing priorities

Responsibilities

• Translate GD&T, key characteristics, and CTQs into tooling requirements (datums, locators, clamps, tolerances, ergonomics, ESD/FOD controls).
• Design assembly jigs, drill/bond fixtures, composites molds & trim fixtures, go/no-go gauges, lifting/handling carts, and protective tooling using CATIA/NX/SolidWorks.
• Conduct FEA and hand calculations to confirm stiffness, clamp loads, safety factors, and ergonomics.
• Generate complete Tool Design Packages including 3D models, 2D drawings with GD&T, BOM, torque/fastener specs, materials/finishes, lifting points, and safety labeling.
• Lead design reviews with ME, Quality, Safety, and Launch teams; perform human-factors evaluations.
• Manage tool fabrication , oversee NCR/ECR resolution, and support shop-floor prove-out.
• Develop Tool Setup & Care Instructions, PM plans, and inspection checklists.
• Support First Article activities including CMM/laser-tracker alignment, gage strategy, and dimensional validation.

Skills

7+ years tooling design

GD&T interpretation

Ergonomics considerations

Fast-paced environment adaptability

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical

Aerospace / Industrial / Mechatronics

Tools

CATIA

NX

SolidWorks

3DEXPERIENCE

Teamcenter

FEA tools

GD&T

Metrology fundamentals

Job description

Shield AI in Dallas, TX is seeking a Senior Tool Design Engineer with 7+ years of experience to own tooling throughout its lifecycle, from concept through prove-out, supporting pilot builds to rate production.

You will collaborate with Manufacturing, Quality, and Safety to deliver robust tooling and ensure first-time-right assembly, with emphasis on GD&T, ergonomics, and compliance. The role requires strong CAD and analysis skills in CATIA/NX/SolidWorks.