Description:
Chipton-Ross is seeking a CAD Designer for a contract opportunity in Santa Fe Springs, CA.
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS (REQUIRED SKILLS/EXPERIENCE): 3+ years of dedicated CAD design experience specifically focused on machining fixtures, workholding, or precision tooling within the aerospace, defense, or high-precision manufacturing sectors.
Technical Mastery: Advanced proficiency in SOLIDWORKS (CSWP or CSWE certification preferred). Expert knowledge of ASME Y14.5 GD&T standards and drafting best practices. Strong working knowledge of conventional and CNC machining operations (milling, turning, wire EDM, grinding) and tooling materials (aluminum, tool steels, stainless, invar, plastics). Demonstrated understanding of workholding mechanics, kinematic location principles (3-2-1 rule), and clamping forces.
POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES: The CAD Tooling & Fixture Designer develops high-precision machining fixtures, assembly tooling, workholding devices, and specialized manufacturing aids for complex aerospace and defense flight components. Utilizing SOLIDWORKS, this role transforms concept sketches and engineering specifications into full detailed, production-ready 3D models and manufacturing drawings. The ideal candidate possesses deep expertise in Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T per ASME Y14.5), Design for Manufacturability (DFM), and practical machine shop workholding principles.
Proficiency with SOLIDWORKS PDM Enterprise for data management.
Exposure to CAM software (Mastercam, GibbsCAM) or direct CNC programming experience.
Familiarity with AS9100 quality management standards and continuous improvement frameworks.
REQUIRED EDUCATION: Accredited Associate Degree in Computer-Aided Drafting/Design (CADD), Mechanical Engineering Technology, or equivalent trade school degree combined with practical experience (BS in Mechanical Engineering preferred).
WORK HOURS: Full-Time
Job Number:
219904
Job Location:
Santa Fe Springs, CA
Rate:
Up to $85000.00 DOE
Duration:
Perm
Input Date:
09/21/2026
Firm Name:
CHIPTON ROSS
Attention:
Anthony Ho
Address:
420 CULVER BLVD
City, State:
PLAYA DEL REY, CA 90293
Phone:
310/414-7800 X286
800 Phone:
800/927-9318
Fax Phone:
310/414-7808
Email:anthony.ho@chiptonross.com Website:www.chiptonross.com
