Job Description:
The Senior Fixture Design Engineer is responsible for leading the design, development, validation, and deployment of manufacturing fixtures, assembly tooling, inspection fixtures, test fixtures, robotic end-of-arm tooling (EOAT), gauges, jigs, and production aids supporting new product introduction (NPI) and high-volume manufacturing operations.
This role collaborates closely with Product Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Quality, Operations, Automation, and Production teams to develop robust tooling solutions that meet evolving product and process requirements. The engineer will drive fixture programs from concept development through detailed design, fabrication, validation, installation, and production launch while coordinating activities across global engineering teams, suppliers, and customers.
The ideal candidate possesses strong mechanical design expertise, manufacturing process knowledge, fixture design experience, and the ability to lead complex tooling projects in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
Key Responsibilities
Fixture Design & Development
Lead the design and development of assembly fixtures, inspection fixtures, test fixtures, robotic tooling, handling fixtures, gauges, welding fixtures, jigs, and production aids.
Gather requirements from Product Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Quality, Operations, Automation, Maintenance, and Production teams.
Translate manufacturing, quality, safety, ergonomic, and product requirements into effective fixture and tooling solutions.
Develop innovative tooling concepts to improve product quality, process capability, throughput, operator safety, and manufacturing efficiency.
Support Design for Manufacturing (DFM), Design for Assembly (DFA), and continuous process improvement initiatives.
Analyze fixture functionality to ensure repeatability, accuracy, durability, and ease of operation.
Basic Qualifications
Bachelors degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, Robotics Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
7+ years of experience in fixture design, tooling design, manufacturing engineering, automation tooling, or production equipment development.
Strong experience in concept design, detailed 3D modeling, and 2D detailing of manufacturing fixtures and tooling systems.
Proficiency with CAD software such as SolidWorks and AutoCAD.
Experience creating fabrication drawings, assembly drawings, BOMs, and GD&T documentation.
Strong understanding of machining, fabrication, welding, assembly, inspection, and manufacturing processes.
Experience working in cross-functional engineering and manufacturing environments.
Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously.
Experience supporting New Product Introduction (NPI), manufacturing launches, and industrialization programs.
Experience coordinating with offshore design teams and global engineering organizations.
Strong knowledge of fixture locating principles, datum structures, dimensional control, and tolerance analysis.
Familiarity with APQP, PPAP, PFMEA, Control Plans, MSA, and production validation methodologies.
Experience managing tooling suppliers, fabrication vendors, and equipment procurement activities.