Build the Tools Behind Tomorrow’s Aircraft: Tool Engineer Opportunity in Palmdale, CA
PDS Tech Commercial is partnering with a leading force in the aviation industry to find a skilled Tool Engineer ready to make a direct impact on advanced aerospace programs like the F-35 and Global Hawk. If you’re passionate about precision design and want to contribute to cutting-edge manufacturing, this is your opportunity to help shape the future of flight.
About the Role
As a Tool Engineer, you will design and develop the critical tools, fixtures, and equipment that power aerospace manufacturing. Your work will ensure efficiency, accuracy, and performance across production and experimental applications—playing a key role in delivering world-class aircraft systems.
Job Details:
Location: Palmdale, CA (Plant 42)
Schedule: Monday–Friday (9x80 schedule)
Pay Rate: $58.53/hour
Job Type: Full-Time, 3-Month Contract
What You’ll Do
In this role, you will:
Design tooling such as jigs, fixtures, gauges, dies, and machine attachments for manufacturing applications
Develop 3D models and detailed drawings using CATIA and CAD tools
Apply GD&T principles to ensure accurate and manufacturable designs
Evaluate specifications, sketches, and engineering data to determine design requirements
Support design of prototype and testing fixtures as needed
Conduct tolerance stack-ups, create exploded views, and generate detailed documentation
Collaborate with engineering teams, suppliers, and customers to meet design needs
Participate in design reviews and ensure adherence to ANSI, ISO, and internal standards
Maintain models and drawings within database systems such as SmartTeam
Apply Design for Manufacturing (DFM) principles to optimize production efficiency
Manage tasks to meet project timelines and continuously improve design practices
What You Bring
Required Qualifications
3+ years of CATIA design experience with strong 3D modeling and detailing skills
Knowledge of industry drawing standards (ANSI, ISO, etc.)
Experience designing castings, stampings, and machined components
Solid understanding and application of GD&T
Strong communication skills and attention to technical detail
Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
Preferred Qualifications
Experience reviewing and analyzing design specifications and engineering data
Ability to develop complex CAD models and assemblies
Knowledge of automotive or aerospace powertrain components
Experience with fixture design and package studies
Familiarity with SmartTeam or similar data management systems
Understanding of multi-process manufacturing (forgings, plastics, composites, etc.)
Experience working cross-functionally with suppliers and customers
Strong organizational skills with the ability to meet project deadlines
Why Join Us
At PDS Tech Commercial, you’ll work alongside some of the most innovative minds in aerospace engineering. We offer:
Competitive compensation in a high-demand engineering field
Hands-on involvement in advanced aviation programs
A collaborative, high-performance culture focused on innovation and quality
Opportunities to expand your design expertise and technical skill set
Exposure to complex projects that elevate your career
Apply Today
Ready to design the tools that make flight possible?
Apply now to join PDS Tech Commercial and help engineer the future of aviation.
This position requires use of information or access to facilities subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and/or Export Administration Regulations (EAR). These regulations may limit access of controlled technologies: 1) to U.S. Persons, including U.S. Citizens, lawful permanent residents, and other narrow categories including refugees and asylees, or 2) to certain foreign nationals that have received an export license.
Pay Details: $58.53 per hour
Benefit offerings available for our associates include medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, additional voluntary benefits, EAP program, commuter benefits and a 401K plan. Our benefit offerings provide employees the flexibility to choose the type of coverage that meets their individual needs. In addition, our associates may be eligible for paid leave including Paid Sick Leave or any other paid leave required by Federal, State, or local law, as well as Holiday pay where applicable.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled
Military connected talent encouraged to apply
To read our Candidate Privacy Information Statement, which explains how we will use your information, please navigate to https://www.pdstech.com/candidate-privacy
The Company will consider qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records in accordance with federal, state, and local laws and/or security clearance requirements, including, as applicable:
The California Fair Chance Act
Los Angeles City Fair Chance Ordinance
Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers
San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance
Massachusetts Candidates Only: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.
Job Number:
US_EN_33_022581_2548348
Job Location:
Palmdale, CA
Rate:
58.53
Per Diem:
--
Overtime:
--
Duration:
indef
Start Date:
ASAP
Input Date:
05/19/2026
Last Updated:
05/20/2026
Firm Name:
PDS TECH COMMERCIAL, INC
Attention: Address:
545 E JOHN CARPENTER FWY STE 950
City, State:
IRVING, TX 75062
Phone:
214/647-9600
800 Phone:
800/270-4737
Email:Client.Services@pdstech.com Website:Go To PDS Tech Commercial Website