Tooling Engineer

Tooling Engineer

Location: West Midlands, Wolverhampton

Job Type: Contract, Full-Time

Primary Industry: Aerospace and Aviation

Secondary Industry: Engineering

Job Description

The Tooling Engineer is responsible for the design, development, and optimisation of tooling systems used in the manufacture and assembly of aerospace components. This role requires a systematic approach to ensure tooling solutions meet stringent quality, safety, and performance standards. The post-holder works closely with manufacturing teams to provide technical support and improvements that enhance production efficiency and maintain compliance with industry regulations.

Job Duties

• Design and develop tooling equipment and fixtures in accordance with aerospace engineering standards and customer specifications.
• Conduct feasibility studies and risk assessments for new tooling projects.
• Collaborate with production and quality departments to resolve tooling-related issues and implement corrective actions.
• Manage the modification and improvement of existing tooling to increase reliability and efficiency.
• Prepare detailed technical documentation, including drawings, specifications, and validation reports.
• Ensure tooling designs comply with relevant health and safety legislation and company policies.
• Support the testing and validation of tooling prototypes, analysing results and recommending adjustments as required.
• Liaise with suppliers and external partners to source materials and services necessary for tooling manufacture and maintenance.
• Maintain accurate records of tooling assets, schedules, and maintenance activities.
• Provide technical training and guidance to manufacturing personnel on tooling usage and best practises.

Required Qualifications

• Qualification in engineering discipline relevant to tooling or manufacturing, such as Mechanical Engineering or Manufacturing Engineering.
• Strong understanding of aerospace manufacturing processes and tooling requirements.
• Proficiency in computer-aided design (CAD) software and engineering analysis tools.
• Knowledge of materials commonly used in aerospace tooling.
• Familiarity with quality assurance principles and aerospace industry standards.

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related engineering field.
• Additional professional qualifications or certifications related to tooling or aerospace engineering are advantageous.

Experience

• Minimum of three years’ experience working as a tooling engineer or in a similar role within the aerospace or engineering sectors.
• Proven experience in tooling design, development, and maintenance for complex manufacturing environments.
• Experience working on contract projects with clear delivery milestones and quality targets.
• Demonstrable background in liaising with cross-functional teams and external suppliers.

Knowledge and Skills

• Strong technical knowledge of tooling design principles and manufacturing techniques.
• Excellent problem-solving skills with the ability to analyse technical data and implement effective solutions.
• Effective communication skills, both written and verbal, for clear reporting and stakeholder engagement.
• Ability to prioritise tasks and manage time efficiently to meet project deadlines.
• Attention to detail and commitment to maintaining high standards of quality and safety.
• Proficiency in relevant software packages, including CAD and Microsoft Office applications.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with advanced manufacturing technologies such as additive manufacturing or robotics.
• Knowledge of lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Membership of a recognised professional engineering institution.
• Previous experience within the aerospace industry environment.

Working Conditions

• The role is primarily based in a manufacturing or engineering facility in the West Midlands.
• The post-holder may be required to visit supplier sites or client locations as part of project activities.
• Working hours are full-time, with flexibility required to meet project deadlines or attend meetings outside standard hours.
• Occasional exposure to workshop environments where personal protective equipment is mandatory.
• The role involves a combination of office-based work and time spent on the shop floor overseeing tooling installation and testing.