Lead Tooling Engineer (FAIT)

Otto Aerospace is developing the world’s first fifth-generation sustainable business jet using advanced aerodynamics and composites. The Lead Tooling Engineer (FAIT Tooling) will be responsible for the technical leadership, design, development, procurement, and implementation of production tooling to support OTTO’s manufacturing programs.

Responsibilities:

• Work with the Tooling Manager to define tooling strategy and architecture to support Design Development Builds, flight testing, LRIP, and FRP builds
• Establish best practices, standards, and design guidelines for jigs, fixtures, molds, mandrels, trim tools, drill tools, assembly tooling among other tooling opportunities
• Works with relevant stakeholders on design and development of:
• Assembly jigs and fixtures
• Drill templates and match-drill tooling
• Composite layup tools, molds, mandrels, and trim fixtures
• Integration and alignment tooling
• Ensure tooling designs meet GD&T, structural, technical specifications, tolerance, ergonomics, safety, and producibility requirements
• Review and approve tooling designs, layouts, and drawings prior to release
• Drive continuous improvement, cost reduction, and cycle time improvements to existing tooling
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior tooling and mechanical engineers
• Participate in hiring, onboarding, and performance feedback for tooling department team members

Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or related field
• 5 - 7 years of experience in mechanical/tooling engineering within aerospace or high-precision manufacturing
• Proven experience designing and implementing assembly jigs and fixtures
• Experience supporting builds in prototype, flight test, or production environments
• Experience with CATIA, 3DX
• Experience supporting Aerospace Programs
• Previous experience leading small engineering teams or acting as technical lead
• Strong knowledge of GD&T, tolerance analysis, and datum structures
• Experience in airframe structures, composite structures, or final assembly tooling
• Experience with CATIA, 3DX, NX
• Knowledge of AS9100 and aerospace quality systems
• Ability to work in fast-paced, high-ambiguity environments
• Excellent communication across engineering, manufacturing, and leadership
• Structured problem-solving and root cause analysis skills
• Hands-on, “get it done” mentality with a focus on execution
• Ability to spend time on the manufacturing floor supporting builds
• Composite tooling