Manufacturing Design Engineer

Toolmax Inc; Ashford; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading aerospace manufacturer in Ashford seeks a motivated Manufacturing Design Engineer with a strong background in mechanical engineering. The role involves creating and modifying engineering drawings and 3D models, designing fixtures for CNC machining, and providing essential support to the shop floor. The ideal candidate will have at least 3 years of experience and a deep understanding of manufacturing processes. This is an exciting opportunity to make a real impact in a fast-paced environment.

Benefits

Competitive pay

Health insurance

401(k) contribution

Paid vacation

Paid holidays

Qualifications

• 3+ years in manufacturing or mechanical engineering, especially aerospace.
• Solid understanding of machining processes and aerospace drawings.
• Experience designing fixtures and tooling for CNC machining.

Responsibilities

• Create and modify 3D models and engineering drawings.
• Design and support manufacturing fixtures for CNC machines.
• Provide engineering support to troubleshoot setup issues.

Skills

3D modeling

Engineering problem-solving

Manufacturing processes understanding

CNC machining experience

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering

Equivalent hands-on manufacturing experience

Job description

🚀 We're Hiring! Manufacturing Design Engineer at Toolmax 🚀

Toolmax Aerospace, Inc. is a family-owned aerospace manufacturer in Ashford, CT, specializing in complex sheet metal and machined aerospace components and tool design and fabrication. We’re currently looking for a hands-on Manufacturing Design Engineer to join our fast-paced, shop-driven team.

What You’ll Do:

• Create and modify 3D models and engineering drawings for aerospace parts, fixtures, tooling, and gauges.
• Design and support manufacturing fixtures, workholding, and forming tools used on CNC machines and shop equipment.
• Provide day-to-day engineering support to the shop floor, including troubleshooting setup issues, fit/function problems, and drawing interpretation questions.
• Support manufacturing with feedback, process improvements, and cost-reduction ideas.
• Manage engineering changes (ECOs) and maintain revision control of models, drawings, and related documentation.
• Collaborate closely with machinists, supervisors, and quality to keep jobs moving and resolve technical issues quickly.
• Support inspection activities as needed, including first article support, in-process checks, and final inspection assistance.
• Assist with tooling validation, part qualification, and production readiness for new and repeat jobs.

What We’re Looking For:

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or related field (preferred), or equivalent hands-on manufacturing experience.
• 3+ years of experience in manufacturing or mechanical engineering, preferably in an aerospace or precision machining environment.
• Solid understanding of machining processes, tolerances, GD&T, and aerospace drawings.
• Experience designing fixtures, tooling, or workholding for CNC machining or sheet metal processes.
• Comfortable working on-site, full-time, in a production-focused environment and interacting directly with the shop floor.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to balance engineering accuracy with production realities.
• Machining and CAM experience is a plus.
• AS9100 familiarity is a plus.

Why Join Toolmax:

• Work in a hands-on aerospace manufacturing environment where engineering directly impacts production
• Opportunity to take ownership of designs, tooling, and real-world manufacturing solutions
• Be a key technical contributor in a small, agile company where your work matters every day

Benefits + Details:

• Competitive pay
• Health insurance
• 401(k) contribution
• Paid vacationPaid holidays

If you’re passionate about designing for manufacturing and want a role where you’re closely tied to real machines, real parts, and real production schedules, we’d love to hear from you.

Contact us for more info: [e-mail]