Mechanical Engineer- Tooling

About the Role

nLIGHT-DEFENSE Systems is seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Tooling Design Engineer to support the development and production of advanced High Energy Laser (HEL) weapon systems. This role is responsible for the design, development, implementation, and continuous improvement of specialized tooling, fixtures, test equipment, and support systems used throughout manufacturing, integration, and testing operations.

As a member of a newly established team supporting the HADES product line, you will collaborate closely with cross-functional engineering and production teams to develop innovative solutions that improve safety, quality, efficiency, and repeatability in the assembly and testing of complex electro-optical systems. This position offers the opportunity to contribute directly to the successful production of cutting-edge defense technologies in a fast-paced and highly collaborative environment.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate within a multidisciplinary engineering and production environment to design, analyze, validate, and implement tooling and support equipment ranging from precision mechanical fixtures to electronic test stands and optical alignment systems.
• Lead mechanical design efforts for multiple concurrent projects, balancing short-turnaround tooling needs with larger, long-term development initiatives.
• Partner with Mechanical, Electrical, Optical, Manufacturing, and Software Engineering teams to define requirements, evaluate design concepts, and ensure tooling solutions meet technical, schedule, and operational objectives.
• Create detailed CAD models, engineering drawings, and documentation packages that support fabrication, assembly, testing, and maintenance activities.
• Perform engineering analyses, including tolerance studies, structural evaluations, and design verification activities, to ensure tooling meets performance, safety, and reliability requirements.
• Identify opportunities to improve manufacturing efficiency, product quality, ergonomics, and operational effectiveness through innovative tooling and process solutions.
• Support the procurement, fabrication, assembly, and deployment of tooling and support equipment while coordinating with internal stakeholders and external vendors as required.
• Provide technical support during integration, testing, and production activities, troubleshooting tooling-related issues and implementing corrective actions when necessary.

Required Experience & Capabilities

• Demonstrated commitment to excellence, attention to detail, and pride in workmanship.
• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a closely related engineering discipline.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience designing and developing tooling, fixtures, or support equipment in an engineering, manufacturing, or production environment.
• Experience supporting low-volume, high-precision systems is preferred.
• Strong proficiency with Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software, with SolidWorks preferred, and a thorough understanding of engineering drawing standards, tolerance analysis, and Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T).
• Working knowledge of material properties, manufacturing processes, machining methods, and fabrication techniques, with the ability to incorporate these considerations into practical design solutions.
• Understanding of precision weldments, structural fabrication methods, and associated manufacturing capabilities.
• Proficiency in engineering analysis techniques, including hand calculations and Finite Element Analysis (FEA), to validate and optimize designs.
• Highly organized and detail-oriented, with strong written and verbal communication skills and the ability to effectively communicate technical concepts to diverse audiences.
• Ability to thrive in a dynamic, fast-paced, and collaborative environment where priorities, schedules, and requirements may evolve rapidly.
• Experience with pressure testing, fluid handling systems, or liquid-cooled systems is preferred.
• Experience with optical alignment methods and tooling is preferred.
• Experience designing equipment used for lifting, transporting, or positioning large and complex systems is preferred.

Benefits

• 4 weeks of Paid Time Off per year
• 11 paid Holidays
• Employee Stock Purchase Plan
• Tuition Assistance Program
• Health (ACA Gold Plan), Vision and Dental Care paid by employer 100% for Employee and 75% for Dependents
• Paid Family Leave, Short and Long Term Disability paid by employer 100%
• Competitive 401k with company match and immediate vesting