Aircraft Tool Maker, Bell Wichita FLRAA

Textron•Wichita, KS

13d•Onsite

About The Position

We’re more than aviation experts, we’re pioneers. We challenge what’s possible. From breaking the sound barrier to advanced tiltrotor systems. Today, Bell is shaping the future of aviation through specialized engineering. And we want you. We are developing the future of Army Aviation with the Bell Future Long-Range Assault Aircraft (FLRAA) part of the US Army’s Future Vertical Lift (FVL) modernization effort. This position is onsite in Wichita, Kansas. Aircraft Tool Maker, Bell Wichita FLRAA Bell Textron is seeking a dedicated Tool Maker to support operations at our cutting-edge Wichita facility, where we’re building the fuselage for the MV-75, the U.S. Army’s Future Long Range Assault Aircraft (FLRAA). This role is essential to ensuring precision tooling and smooth production flow in a high-tech aerospace environment.

Requirements

Operating of laser tracker and ability to integrate 3D models.
Welding certification
Inventory management systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle) for tracking tool usage and calibration
Lean manufacturing principles to support continuous improvement and waste reduction
Troubleshooting and root cause analysis for tool-related production issues
Effective communication to relay tool setup details across shifts and departments
Time management to prioritize tool setups and maintenance under tight schedules
Basic computer literacy for logging tool data and accessing digital work instructions
Adaptability to work with evolving tooling technologies and production demands
Spatial reasoning to visualize tool setups and machine interactions
Precision and attention to detail for maintaining tight tolerances
Team collaboration to support cross-functional production goals
Initiative and curiosity to learn new tooling techniques and suggest improvements
Reliability in maintaining tool crib integrity and calibration schedules
Commitment to safety in handling sharp tools and operating machinery
Customer-focused mindset to support internal stakeholders like assemblers and engineers
High school diploma or GED required
Minimum 5 years’ experience of tool making by use of hand tools, power tools, and measuring instruments such as laser trackers etc.
Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality
U.S. person status required (per ITAR/EAR regulations)
Ability to stand for extended periods during machining and tool setup activities
Capability to lift and carry tooling components weighing up to 50 lbs safely and repeatedly
Manual dexterity to handle precision instruments, small tools, and intricate setups
Strong visual acuity to read technical drawings and perform accurate inspections
Willingness to perform repetitive motions, including gripping, twisting, and reaching
Comfortable working in a machine shop environment, exposed to noise, lubricants, and metal particulates

Responsibilities

Create, track and perform airframe fixture period inspections.
Repair and upgrade assembly fixtures by use of power tools, NC and conventional mill and lathes.
Create work aids to assist manufacturing.
Verify all tooling by using laser tracking standard practices.
Help troubleshoot production issues by doing in process verification of tooling and provide feedback.
Maintain crib inventory and manage tool distribution
Monitor calibration logs and tool serviceability
Collaborate with Process engineering and tool design team for concept of tooling.