Tooling Engineer

Job Summary Tool Engineer 3 Location: Palmdale, Ca Duration: 24 Months Rate: Up to $100.00/hr BOE TELECOMMUTE: - No CLEARANCE TYPE: - None WORK SHIFT: - 1st shift, 4/10s TRAVEL: No NG is looking for Tooling Engineer 3 Responsibilities: Tool Design & Development o Generate 3 D models and detailed drawings for custom tools, fixtures, jigs, and gauges using CAD software (SolidWorks, CATIA, or Creo). o Conduct design for manufacturability (DFM) and design for assembly (DFA) reviews; incorporate GD&T and tolerancing best practices. o Perform finite element analysis (FEA) and stress/deflection calculations to validate structural integrity. Prototype & Validation o Build and assemble prototype tooling; coordinate rapid prototype methods (3 D printing, CNC machining, additive manufacturing). o Develop test plans; run qualification trials, capture data, and analyze results to verify tool performance against specifications. o Document tool qualification reports and secure release for production use. Production Support o Issue and maintain engineering change orders (ECOs) for tooling improvements or corrective actions. o Provide on site support for tool installation, alignment, and troubleshooting; train manufacturing personnel on proper usage. o Monitor tool wear, life cycle cost, and schedule preventive maintenance or refurbishment as needed. Supplier Management o Identify, qualify, and manage external tool vendors; develop statements of work (SOW) and technical specifications. o Conduct supplier audits, evaluate capability, and ensure compliance with Northrop quality standards (AS9100, NADCAP). Continuous Improvement o Lead initiatives to reduce tooling cost, cycle time, and waste through lean manufacturing, value stream mapping, and automation. o Capture lessons learned; update tooling standards, best practice guides, and knowledge base documents. Compliance & Documentation o Ensure all tooling complies with relevant standards (MIL STD 1850, FAA/EASA, ITAR) and internal security requirements. o Maintain accurate configuration controlled records in PLM system (Windchill, Teamcenter). Basic Qualifications: High school diploma 15 + years of aerospace/manufacturing experience Preferred Qualifications: High school diploma Experience in tool fabrication/assemblies 15 + years of aerospace/manufacturing experience Job Type: Contract Pay: $95.00 - $100.00 per hour Benefits: 401(k) Health insurance Experience: Tooling design: 10 years (Required) CATIA: 10 years (Preferred) SolidWorks: 10 years (Preferred) Work Location: In person