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 outcomesPlease note: Applicants must be eligible for SC clearance