Inert Tool Engineer (Level V)

Voyager Technologies • Reno, NV

5d • Remote

About The Position

The Inert Tool Engineer (Level V) supports solid rocket motor and aerospace propulsion programs. The role is responsible for the concept, design, engineering, fabrication drawings, inspection and procurement requirements, verification requirements, and fabrication support for tooling and equipment used in solid rocket motor manufacturing, specifically energetic operations. The position reports to the Special Tooling Group Manager and is part of Strategic Systems Operations. It is described as remote based in Folsom, California.

The engineer manages tooling projects and coordinates design and fabrication activities to meet program cost and schedule requirements. They work with internal customers, manufacturing, operations, process engineering, and suppliers to develop, support, inspect, and improve tooling. The role also contributes to continuous improvement, standardized tooling documentation and practices, supplier oversight, and implementation of manufacturing and asset-management systems. Travel to suppliers is required as needed.

Requirements

• Bachelor of Science in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, or another relevant engineering discipline from an accredited university; equivalent experience may be considered in lieu of a degree.
• 10–15 years of tool design or engineering experience, with emphasis in solid rocket motor case, nozzle, and thruster production.
• Working knowledge of composite case winding, compression molding, machining, and bonding operations, including the associated tooling and equipment.
• Experience designing wind mandrels and associated tooling; compression molds; machining, bonding, and assembly fixtures or stands; hand tools; leak-check fixtures; and lifting or handling fixtures used in inert motor case, nozzle, and thruster production.
• Proficiency with mechanical-design CAD software such as SolidWorks, NX, or similar.
• Strong working knowledge of GD&T (ASME Y14.5) and metrology principles.
• Experience with finite element analysis practices.
• Demonstrated ability to design and validate fixtures, jigs, and gauges for precision assembly and inspection.
• Experience with tooling materials selection, machining processes, and tolerance analysis.
• Experience with tooling configuration management and change-control processes.
• Previous use of an MES or EAM/CMMS system to manage tool fabrication and maintenance.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. DoD security clearance; U.S. citizenship is required.
• Ability to lift, move, or carry items or equipment weighing up to 50 pounds.

Nice To Haves

• Experience supporting Missile Defense Agency (MDA) programs.
• Experience in tool design for load motor production.
• Active Secret clearance.
• Previous experience designing tools for automation.

Responsibilities

• Manage assigned tooling projects, coordinating design and fabrication activities to meet program cost and schedule requirements.
• Travel to suppliers to support fabrication and inspection as needed.
• Work with the manufacturing team to achieve program quality, delivery, and cost objectives.
• Work with internal customers to define tooling and equipment needs for new and existing programs.
• Develop tooling concepts and create, review, and improve manufacturing processes to meet customer requirements while ensuring tool designs meet environmental, health, and safety requirements.
• Apply DFM/DFA, GD&T, and Value Engineering principles to balance precision, ergonomics, manufacturability, durability, and cost in tooling design.
• Deliver and maintain tooling design documentation, including CAD models, drawings, specifications, and work instructions.
• Inspect tool configuration for drawing compliance, including fit, form, and function.
• Perform stress analysis to ensure tools are mechanically sound and safe.
• Review engineering drawings and designs for manufacturability.
• Support operations and process engineering in the use of tooling.
• Support continuous improvement activities.
• Assist in developing a supplier base for outsourced tool fabrication and oversee or monitor supplier quality and on-time delivery.
• Assist with implementation of an MES, CMMS, and/or EAM system.
• Assist in developing standardized tooling documentation, specifications, and engineering best practices across the organization.
• Mentor junior designers and peers in their design efforts.

Benefits

• Flexible Time Off (FTO).
• Medical, dental, and vision coverage for employees and their families, with a significant portion of premiums covered by the company and many benefits paid at 100% for employees.
• Flexible, affordable gym memberships with access to more than 12,700 nationwide options.
• 401(k) retirement plan with a company match of up to 4%.
• Company wellness programs supporting physical and mental well-being.
• Additional voluntary benefits and employee support resources.
• Competitive total compensation package, including base salary and potential bonus or incentive compensation.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior