# Staff Engineer, Tool Design (R4299)

**Company:** [Shield AI](https://hotfix.jobs/companies/shield-ai)
**Location:** Dallas, TX
**Role:** Hardware Engineering
**Salary:** $120k – $190k/yr
**Experience:** 7+ years
**Skills:** CATIA, Nx, Solidworks, FEA, GD&T, 3Dexperience, Teamcenter, Metrology, Composites Manufacturing, Machining Processes
**Posted:** 2025-12-15

> Designs and owns production tooling lifecycle for complex aerospace systems, including jigs, fixtures, molds using CATIA/NX/SolidWorks. Conducts FEA analysis, generates design packages, leads reviews, and supports fabrication/prove-out. Requires 7+ years experience and bachelor's in engineering.

## Job Description

## 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.

## Required 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.

## Preferred Qualifications
- Knowledge of quality standards, such as **AS9100** or **ISO 9001**.
- Familiarity with advanced manufacturing technologies, such as additive manufacturing or automation systems.
- Strong project management skills, including experience managing multiple priorities and deadlines.

## Tools & Skills
- **CATIA / NX / SolidWorks**, **3DEXPERIENCE / Teamcenter**, **FEA** tools, **GD&T**, metrology fundamentals, supplier manufacturing processes.

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