Tooling Engineer-Contract
Palo Alto, CA
Manufacturing – Production /
Contract /
On-site
Pivotal is the leader in the emerging market of electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing (eVTOL) aircraft. We design, develop, and manufacture light eVTOL aircraft and are renowned for the BlackFly, the first light eVTOL to fly manned missions and enter the consumer market.
Efficient, compact, and simple, Pivotal vehicles are designed for a wide range of consumer, public service, and defense applications. Our distinctive tilt-aircraft architecture and scalable platform have been in development, preparing to enter the market for over 10 years. We recently announced our next-generation aircraft, the Helix, planned for general release and scalable production in early 2025.
Mobility is one of the most highly-valued areas of technology investment today. This is the right company, in the right space, the right strategy, at the right time. We invite you to join our amazing team and grow with us.
We are seeking a highly skilled Tooling Engineer to join our dynamic Manufacturing Engineering team. In this role, you will be primarily responsible for tooling design, including assembly fixtures and jigs, while also defining and optimizing manufacturing processes.
Responsibilities:
- Design required tooling (assembly fixtures, molds, jigs, etc.) for part and aircraft assembly to enhance production efficiency and ensure product quality
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure tooling designs meet product specifications and operational requirements
- Conduct tolerance analysis and ensure that designs comply with industry standards and best practices
- Analyze design options to provide cost estimates for tooling projects
- Define and document manufacturing processes, workflows, and operating procedures to improve production efficiency
- Identify areas for process improvement and implement solutions that enhance productivity, reduce waste, and improve quality
- Collaborate with product designers to incorporate manufacturing considerations into the product design phase, aiming to simplify production and reduce complexity
- Support production teams in troubleshooting and resolving technical issues related to tooling and processes
- Provide training and mentorship to junior engineers and technicians in tooling design and process optimization
- Lead or participate in engineering projects from concept through execution, ensuring alignment with project timelines and budgets
- Prepare and present project updates and technical documentation to stakeholders and management
Collaboration and Support:
Project Management:
Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field; Master’s degree preferred
- Minimum of 5-7 years of experience in manufacturing engineering, with a focus on tooling design and process definition
- Proficiency in CAD software (Catia V5/V6 preferred) and experience with Design for Manufacturability (DFM)
- Proficiency with creating drawings using best practice GD&T principles
- Strong understanding of manufacturing processes, including machining, assembly, and quality control techniques
- Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills, with the ability to work effectively in a team-oriented environment
- Excellent project management and organizational skills
Bonus Qualifications:
- Familiarity with lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement methodologies (e.g., Six Sigma) is a plus
- Experience in aerospace or EVTOL segments
- Experience working with composite material and creating tooling for use with composites
- Masters or PHD degree in engineering
Personal Attributes:
- Comfortable with change and open to new ideas and perspectives
- Able to adjust quickly to shifting priorities or environments
- Ability to focus on accuracy and quality in work, with a commitment to delivering high standards
- Ability to prioritize tasks and manage time effectively to meet deadlines
- Enthusiastic and brings a can-do attitude to the workplace
- Able to contribute fresh ideas in brainstorming sessions and strategic planning
$65 - $80 an hour
Applicants must be eligible for employment in the United States and willing to work onsite at our HQ office in Palo Alto, CA.
Pivotal offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, and 401k plans.
Pivotal is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Pivotal does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, non-disqualifying physical or mental disability, national origin, veteran status or any other basis covered by appropriate law. All employment is decided on the basis of qualifications, merit, and business need.
