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