Design Engineer

About the Role We are seeking a highly motivated Senior Design Engineer to join our Advanced Aerostructures Composites team to support the design, development, and manufacturing of tooling for complex aerospace components and composite structures. This role bridges design and manufacturing, with a strong focus on CAD-based design, CNC programming, and production-ready tooling solutions. The ideal candidate will work closely with cross-functional teams and take ownership from concept to production, ensuring designs are practical, efficient, and ready for shop floor. Key Responsibilities

• Design tooling including molds, trim fixtures, bonding fixtures and assembly tooling for aerospace components and composite structures
• Develop 3D models and 2D drawings with full GD&T definition
• Perform tolerance stack-ups and design validation for fit, form, and function
• Support tool prove-out and implement improvements based on production feedback
• Collaborate with manufacturing engineering on tooling and process development
• Develop and optimize CNC programs (3-axis, 3+2, and 5-axis) using CATIA or similar CAM software
• Define machining strategies (tooling, feeds & speeds, cutting parameters)
• Support shop-floor troubleshooting and continuous improvement of machining processes
• Validate programs through simulation and prove-out
• Support New Product Introduction (NPI) activities including design reviews, gate reviews, and production readiness
• Develop and release BOMs, drawings, and engineering documentation in ERP/PLM systems
• Partner with Quality on FAI, control plans, and inspection methods
• Support root cause analysis and corrective actions Qualifications & Experience
• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related engineering discipling
• 5+ years of experience in aerospace, composites, or precision manufacturing
• Proficiency in CATIA V5, Siemens NX, Mastercam, or similar CAM software
• Experience with multi-axis CNC programming
• Strong understanding of machining processes, tooling, and materials
• Experience working in both design and manufacturing environments
• Knowledge of GD&T, tolerance analysis, and engineering standards
• This position must meet Export Control compliance requirements, therefore a "US Person" as defined by 22 C.F.R. §120.15 is required Preferred Qualifications
• Experience with composite materials and tooling design
• Familiarity with ERP systems (e.g., EPICOR, Teamcenter)
• Knowledge of NPI processes, PFMEA, and control plans
• Experience working in aerospace or regulated manufacturing environments
• Strong problem-solving and root cause analysis skills

Key Competencies:

• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet production release deadlines
• Effective communication and collaboration across engineering and production teams
• Strong attention to detail in a regulated aerospace manufacturing environment

Physical Requirements:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Frequently stand, walk, and sit
• Occasionally use hands to handle, reach, and manipulate objects
• Ability to lift up to 10 lbs frequently and up to 25 lbs occasionally
• Vision abilities include close vision, distance vision, color vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus

Work Environment:

• Approximately 75% office environment
• Approximately 25% manufacturing floor environment
• Moderate manufacturing noise levels
• Occasional work near moving mechanical equipment
• Appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) may be required in production areas.

Equal Opportunity Employer

TIGHITCO

is an Equal Opportunity Employer / Veteran / Disabled employer committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants and employees

Pay:

$90,000.00 - $100,000.00 per year

Work Location:

In person