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Tooling Design Engineer

  • Location: Ampthill
  • Salary: £40 - £50 per hour + Negotiable, Inside IR35 per hour
  • Job Type:Contract

Posted 5 days ago

  • Sector: Defence & Aerospace
  • Contact: Emily Stapley
  • Contact Email: e.stapley@jamrecruitment.co.uk
  • Duration: 6 months
  • Expiry Date: 05 November 2025
  • Job Ref: BBBH85241_1758754537

Tooling Design Engineer
Ampthill (onsite 4 days per week)
6-Month Contract
£40-£50 per hour (umbrella, inside IR35)
Must be eligible for SC clearance

The Opportunity

We are seeking a Tooling Design Engineer to join a fast-paced defence engineering programme in Ampthill. This contract offers the chance to work on cutting-edge projects within the Missiles & Fire Control domain, supporting the full product lifecycle from prototype through to production.

You'll be part of a small, dynamic team working a 4-day week (Monday-Thursday), with a strong emphasis on work/life balance and flexible working arrangements.

What You'll Do

  • Design and develop tooling, jigs, fixtures, prototype models, and machine attachments to support production and experimental builds.
  • Generate 3D CAD models and BS8888 technical drawings using CREO.
  • Manage tooling documentation, release, and change control in Windchill (PDM).
  • Create Technical Requirement Specifications, BOMs, routings, and process instructions to aid manufacturing.
  • Apply GD&T, DFM/A, PFMEA, and Lean principles to optimise manufacturing.
  • Collaborate with Industrial & Production Engineering teams to ensure smooth production flow.
  • Contribute to MDWT meetings and capital planning for tooling requirements.
  • Support high-quality, cost-effective manufacturing solutions with a "right first time" approach.

What We're Looking For

  • Proven background in tooling design within a manufacturing environment.
  • Broad understanding of CNC machining, composites, fabrication, additive manufacturing, and mechanical assembly.
  • Strong CAD skills (CREO) and document control expertise (Windchill).
  • Knowledge of GD&T and ability to produce BS8888-compliant drawings.
  • Practical experience with Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and quality toolsets.
  • Skilled in producing BOMs, routings, and manufacturing process documentation.
  • Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
  • Ability to influence stakeholders, enforce quality standards, and drive cultural/process change.

Why Apply?

  • Competitive pay: £40 to £50per hour (umbrella, inside IR35)
  • 4-day working week - enjoy a long weekend every week
  • Exciting opportunity to work on high-profile defence programmes
  • Small, collaborative team environment with big impact on project outcomes

Please note: Applicants must be eligible for SC clearance.