Sr Principal Tool Engineer

At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work — and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history. The Mission Enabling Products (MEP) Business Unit is seeking a Senior Principal Tool Design Engineer to join our team. Northrop Grumman MEP Business Unit designs, builds and delivers space, defense and aviation-related systems to customers around the world. Our main products include satellites and associated space components and services, launch vehicles and related propulsion systems, missile products, subsystems and defense electronics, precision weapons, armament systems, and advanced aerospace structures. This position is located in San Diego, CA. The Tool Design Engineer is responsible for developing and designing tooling used to manufacture, inspect, and test aerospace composite hardware. The Tool Design Engineer will partner with Manufacturing, Test, and Design Engineering functions to ensure successful execution and delivery of hardware. Job Responsibilities: Create, prototype, design, and analyze tools and fixtures for manufacturing and testing of composite parts and assemblies. Tools include layup molds, precision assembly fixtures, Ground Support Equipment (GSE), and machining fixtures/jigs. Develop and refine components and subsystems utilizing design skills, hand calculations, CAD modeling software and analytical tools. Perform detailed 3D designs and generate 2D engineering drawings. Participate and present in internal and external (customer) design reviews. Includes generation of presentation media for PDR, CDR, and MRR type reviews. Support manufacturing and test of fixtures and hardware as required. Aid in the generation of manufacturing and test plans. Support procurement of hardware and tooling. Manage and track multiple priorities while maintaining a focus towards common project goals of the program team, matrix organization, and customers. Support continuous improvement of departmental tools and procedures. Ensure designs meet manufacturing and test plans, while maintaining targets for cost and schedule. Basic Qualifications: Requires Bachelors of Science degree in Engineering with 9+ years working in a structural design field. Aerospace experience with product definition and design. Thorough understanding of specifications, SOW's, drawings, ICD compliance. Experience in design of composite structures or composite-related tooling. Ability to perform design of complex, multi-piece tool assemblies to ensure successful execution of manufacturing and test plans. Extensive experience in CAD and PLM systems is required. Siemens NX and Teamcenter experience is preferred. Extensive experience in drawing generation, with an advanced understanding of GD&T. Extensive experience with Design for Manufacturability (DFMA) principles and mistake-proofing techniques. Has the ability to prioritize and manage time effectively. Ability to clearly and professionally present technical information (both written and verbal). Must be a US citizen. Preferred Qualifications: Extensive experience with aerospace tooling, including composite layup molds, precision assembly fixtures, and Ground Support Equipment (GSE). Extensive experience with composite/metallic assemblies including bonded/fastened joints and associated materials, adhesives and fasteners. Thorough understanding of aerospace materials and assembly methods. Should be a self-starter and possess strong interpersonal skills with the ability to work independently or as part of a team. Experience with composite manufacturing processes and applications (layup, machining, bonding & assembly). Acts as a leader, and has the ability to mentor and train other engineers. Ability to receive Top Secret clearance.