Description:
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.
Requirements:
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).
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
Microbest is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
