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2026 Associate Tool Engineer - Sunnyvale CA

Confidential ClientAerospace & Defense
Entry LevelFull-timeOn-Site$115,593
Sunnyvale, California
19 Hours Ago

The Associate Tool Engineer at Confidential Client's Mission Systems in Sunnyvale, CA, is responsible for designing and supporting tooling solutions that meet functional and performance requirements. This role involves creating detailed 3D CAD models and 2D drawings, developing fabrication instructions, providing hands-on manufacturing support, and ensuring quality through inspections and troubleshooting. The position offers an opportunity to contribute to advanced defense technologies while gaining professional experience in a collaborative environment.

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Description

About Careertakes

👉 Important disclosure: Careertakes is a third-party recruiting platform supporting this hiring process. If selected, you will be employed directly by our client, Engineering.

Applicants for this role may also receive access to additional matched opportunities through the Careertakes platform.


Role overview

Confidential client is hiring an entry-level Associate Tool Engineer in Sunnyvale, CA. This role supports tooling design and fabrication for mission-driven engineering programs. You'll work with internal teams and vendors to develop tooling concepts, produce 3D CAD models and 2D production drawings, support fabrication, and perform first-article and in-process inspections.


What You’ll Do

  • Collaborate with internal customers and cross-functional project teams to capture functional and performance requirements.
  • Develop initial tooling concepts for new and existing program needs.
  • Create detailed 3D CAD models (NX preferred) and production 2D drawings that specify fit, form, and function.
  • Develop fabrication requirements, procurement specifications, and inspection plans that align with manufacturing processes and ERP documentation.
  • Provide hands-on technical support to in-house manufacturing teams and external vendors during fabrication.
  • Perform first-article and in-process inspections to verify that manufacturing outputs meet design specifications and performance targets.
  • Troubleshoot and resolve fabrication issues to maintain quality and schedule.
  • Support occasional travel (~10%) and potential relocation assistance as needed.

Basic Qualifications

A candidate must meet ALL of the following criteria to be considered:

  • Completing or has completed a degree (Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD) from an accredited institution.
  • Major or concentration in a STEM discipline (Science, Technology, Engineering, or Math).
  • Ability to obtain a U.S. Government security clearance (U.S. citizenship is a pre-requisite).
  • Ability to obtain access to Special Access Programs within a reasonable period as required by the business.
  • Experience with 3D CAD modeling using commercial CAD software.
  • Experience creating 2D drawings from 3D models.
  • Exposure to the design and fabrication of special tooling and assemblies.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Cumulative GPA of 3.00/4.0 or higher.
  • PLM experience (e.g., Siemens Teamcenter or PTC Windchill).
  • Strong attention to detail and a track record of producing high-quality drawings and documentation.
  • Passion for designing, building, and supporting tools or machinery.
  • Clear written and verbal communication skills; able to convey technical concepts to diverse audiences.

Compensation & Location

  • Location: Sunnyvale, CA (on-site)
  • Employment type: Full-time
  • Salary range (provided): $69,400 — $104,000 per year (range disclosed per California pay transparency requirements)
  • Relocation assistance: May be available
  • Travel: Approximately 10% of the time

Additional information

  • This role is for U.S. citizens only due to security clearance requirements.
  • Confidential client is an equal opportunity employer that values diversity and inclusion.
  • Careertakes is acting as a third-party recruiter for this opening and may provide candidates access to additional matched opportunities.

Equal Opportunity & Hiring Transparency

Careertakes and our client are Equal Opportunity Employers committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We prohibit discrimination or harassment of any kind. To support a fair and efficient hiring process, AI tools may be used to assist with application review or resume screening. These tools do not replace human decision-making. Final hiring decisions are made by people.

If you have questions about how your data is used, please contact us directly.

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