Manufacturing Engineer 1 -Tooling & Fixture Design (Entry Level)
This entry-level Manufacturing Engineer role focuses on designing and improving CNC workholding fixtures to enhance part stability, repeatability, and throughput. The engineer collaborates closely with machinists and operators to develop, test, and document tooling solutions while supporting continuous improvement and quality initiatives in a hands-on manufacturing environment. The position requires strong problem-solving skills, CAD proficiency, and effective communication to contribute to production efficiency and scrap reduction.
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.
What You’ll Do
Confidential Client’s engineering team is seeking an entry-level Manufacturing Engineer focused on tooling and fixture design. Working closely with machinists and production operators, you will support fixture design, shop-floor prove-outs, and process documentation to improve part stability, repeatability, and throughput.
- Assist in the design of CNC workholding fixtures (milling, turning, secondary ops) to improve part stability and throughput
- Create and maintain 2D/3D CAD models and engineering drawings for fixtures, soft jaws, nests, clamps, and related tooling
- Collaborate with engineers, tool room machinists and CNC operators to review fixture concepts and incorporate feedback
- Support fixture prove-outs on the shop floor; document results and implement revisions
- Produce process documentation: setup sheets, work instructions, tooling lists, and basic process flows
- Participate in continuous improvement initiatives (cycle time reduction, scrap reduction, ergonomics/safety) using structured problem solving
- Take part in root cause analysis for fixture- or process-related quality issues and help implement corrective actions
- Standardize common tooling/fixture components and support tooling inventory practices
- Coordinate with Quality/Inspection to ensure fixtures support print requirements and measurement strategy
- Follow all safety policies and support EHS requirements related to guarding, clamping, pinch points, and safe setup practices
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or related field (0–2 years experience)
- Basic understanding of machining (turning/milling) and fixturing fundamentals
- Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings; familiarity with basic GD&T concepts
- Working knowledge of CAD (SolidWorks preferred; equivalent acceptable)
- Strong problem‑solving skills, attention to detail, and willingness to be hands‑on on the shop floor
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Excel, Word)
Preferred Qualifications
- Co-op or internship experience in machining, tooling, or manufacturing engineering
- Exposure to fixture design principles (locating schemes such as 3-2-1, datum strategy, clamp methods)
- Familiarity with shop measuring tools (calipers, micrometers, indicators)
- Basic knowledge of machining process planning and tooling selection
- Experience with ERP/MRP systems or creating BOM/tool lists
- Basic CAM exposure a plus
Key Competencies
- Practical mechanical aptitude and curiosity
- Clear, respectful communication with machinists/operators
- Design-for-manufacturability mindset
- Documentation discipline and follow-through
- Structured problem-solving (5-Why, fishbone)
- Ability to prioritize and manage multiple requests in a production environment
Work Environment & Physical Requirements
- Combination of office and shop-floor work; PPE required
- Ability to stand/walk for extended periods and occasionally lift up to 25 lbs
- Frequent support of tool room builds and production prove-outs at machines
What Success Looks Like (first 6–12 months)
- Designs and releases simple fixtures with supervision; progresses to more complex workholding
- Builds strong working relationships with tool room and operators; responds quickly to production needs
- Contributes to reduced setup time, improved repeatability, and scrap reduction through better workholding
Tools & Software
- SolidWorks (or similar CAD)
- Basic CAM exposure is a plus
- Microsoft Excel and document control practices
Compensation & Benefits
- Estimated base salary: $63,657 per year (estimated)
- PTO
- Benefits package including health, dental, vision, 401(k) with company match, short- and long-term disability, and more
Confidential Client is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
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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