Manufacturing Engineer 1 -Tooling & Fixture Design (Entry Level)

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

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• Assist in the design of CNC workholding fixtures (milling/turning/secondary ops) to improve part stability, repeatability, and throughput.
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• Create and maintain 2D/3D CAD models and drawings for fixtures, soft jaws, nests, clamps, and related tooling.
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• Collaborate with engineers, tool room machinists and CNC operators to review fixture concepts, incorporate feedback, and support build/debug.
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• Support fixture prove-outs on the shop floor; document results and implement revisions as needed.
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• Assist with process documentation including set-up sheets, work instructions, tooling lists, and basic process flow documentation.
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• Support continuous improvement efforts (cycle time reduction, scrap reduction, ergonomic/safety improvements) using structured problem-solving.
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• Participate in root cause analysis for fixture- or process-related quality issues (5-Why, fishbone) and help implement corrective actions.
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• Help standardize tooling/fixture components and support basic tooling inventory and identification practices.
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• Assist with engineering changes affecting fixturing, gaging, and process steps; update documentation accordingly.
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• Work cross-functionally with Quality and Inspection to ensure fixtures support print requirements and measurement strategy.
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• Follow all safety policies; support EHS requirements related to guarding, clamping forces, pinch points, and safe setup practices.
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Required

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• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or related field (0-2 years experience).
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• Basic understanding of machining concepts (turning/milling), fixturing fundamentals, and how workholding impacts quality.
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• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, familiarity with basic GD&T concepts.
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• Working knowledge of CAD (SolidWorks preferred; equivalent acceptable).
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• Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and willingness to be hands-on in a manufacturing environment.
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• Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Excel/Word).
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Preferred

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• co-op in machining, tooling, or manufacturing engineering.
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• Exposure to fixture design principles: locating schemes (3-2-1), datum strategy, clamp methods, repeatability.
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• Familiarity with common shop measuring tools and concepts (calipers, micrometers, indicators).
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• Basic knowledge of machining process planning and tooling selection.
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• Experience with ERP/MRP systems or basic BOM/tool lists.
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Key Competencies

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• Practical mechanical aptitude and curiosity
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• Clear communication with machinists/operators
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• Design-for-manufacturability mindset
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• Documentation discipline and follow-through
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• Structured problem-solving
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• Ability to prioritize and manage multiple requests
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Work Environment / Physical Requirements

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• Combination of office and shop-floor work; PPE required.
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• Ability to stand/walk for extended periods and occasionally lift up to 25 lbs.
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• Will frequently support tool room builds and production prove-outs at machines.
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What Success Looks Like (first 6-12 months)

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• Designs and releases simple fixtures with supervision, then progressively more complex workholding.
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• Builds strong relationships with tool room and operators; responds quickly to production needs.
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• Helps reduce setup time, improves repeatability, and contributes to scrap reduction through better workholding.
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Tools/Software

SolidWorks (or similar CAD), basic CAM exposure a plus, Excel, and document control practices.

Compensation:

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• Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
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• PTO
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• Benefits package includes health, dental, vision, 401(k), 401(k) Company Match, Short and Long term Disability and more.
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Microbest is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

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