2026 Associate Tool Engineer - Sunnyvale CA

Relocation assistance may be available. Travel is required, up to 10% of the time.

About the Role

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. 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.

Northrop Grumman Mission Systems is a trusted provider of mission-enabling solutions for global security. We have a wide portfolio of secure, affordable, integrated, and multi-domain systems and technologies. Our differentiated battle management and cyber solutions deliver timely, mission-enabling information and provide superior situational awareness and understanding to protect the U.S. and its global allies.

Entry-level opportunities at Northrop Grumman offer unique experiences to boost your knowledge through hands-on exposure while supporting missions that protect our nation and its allies. Our professionals thrive on diverse perspectives, curiosity, and collaboration, creating a strong and inclusive work environment.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with internal customers and project teams to capture functional and performance requirements.
• Develop initial tooling concepts that address new and existing program needs.
• Create detailed 3D CAD models (NX preferred) and production 2D drawings specifying fit, form, and function.
• Develop fabrication requirements incorporating standardized manufacturing instructions (ERP system), procurement specifications, and inspection plans.
• Ensure design documentation clearly communicates technical intent.
• Provide hands-on technical support to in-house manufacturing teams and vendors during fabrication.
• Perform first-article and in-process inspections to validate manufacturing outputs meet design specifications and performance targets.
• Troubleshoot and resolve fabrication issues to maintain quality and schedule.

Requirements

• Completing or has completed a degree (Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD) from an accredited institution in a STEM discipline (Science, Technology, Engineering, or Math).
• Ability to obtain a U.S. Government security clearance (U.S. citizenship is required).
• Ability to obtain Special Access Program clearance within a reasonable period, as determined by business needs.
• Experience in 3D CAD modeling using standard commercial CAD software.
• Experience in 2D drafting and drawing creation from 3D models.
• Exposure to design and fabrication of special tooling and assemblies.

Preferred Qualifications

• Overall cumulative GPA of 3.00/4.0 or higher.
• PLM experience such as Siemens Teamcenter or Windchill.
• Attention to detail, consistently delivering high-quality drawings to meet requirements.
• Passion for design, including enthusiasm for designing, building, and supporting tools or machinery.
• Excellent communication and written skills; able to convey technical concepts to diverse audiences and produce high-quality documentation.

Pay

Salary range: $69,400.00 to $104,000.00.