Mechanical Tool Design Engineers

We don’t just build technology—we engineer the future. From next-gen aerospace to cutting-edge defense systems, we tackle the toughest, mission-critical challenges that keep people safe and push the limits of innovation. This is where problem-solvers, innovators, and big thinkers thrive.

Quest Defense Systems and Solutions is actively hiring

Mechanical Tool Design Engineers to design and develop production tooling, fixtures, and machining aids that support turbomachinery manufacturing and repair. Using Siemens NX, CAD modeling, GD&T, and mechanical design principles, you will turn engineering drawings and requirements into practical tooling solutions that improve manufacturing accuracy, quality, and efficiency.

Location:

Onsite Cincinnati, OH.  Relocation assistance is available

Citizenship:

Due to the nature of the work, US Citizenship is required.

Clearance:

Ability to Obtain or already have an active Security Clearance

What you will be doing:

• Read and interpret conceptual designs, drawings, blueprints, engineering orders, sketches, tool orders, manuals, charts and graphs to layout and draw tool designs utilizing drafting techniques including computer-based design or drafting systems.
• Perform mathematical calculations using shop math, including geometric and trigonometric formulas to compute and locate dimensions, angles, contours, convex and concave surfaces, reference lines, center points and machining guidelines. Understand and apply results from stress analysis.
• Design a variety of production, engineering and developmental tools to be used in machining, fabrication, and processing, applying knowledge of the working properties and machining characteristics of various metals, plastics, ceramics and composite materials.
• Coordinate tool requisition, design concepts, changes, modifications and requirements with Tool Engineers as required.
• Collaborative Spirit: Coordinate with Product Definition Engineers to meet tool requisitions and implement design changes to ensure modifications align with requirements.
• Assist shop personnel in understanding the tool design drawing as required.
• Record manufacturing data and statistics manually or with the use of a computer or computer-based systems.

Qualifications You Must Have:

• Hold a BS in Engineering or have commensurate years of experience in a relevant discipline.
• Proficient in the use of Computer-Aided Design (CAD), and modeling skills using NX
• Read and interpret information from engineering documents, sketches, drawings, blueprints, engineering models, conceptual designs and verbal discussions.
• Prior knowledge and a minimum of 3 years of experience interpreting and applying Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerance (GD&T) to support tool fixture design and fabrication process.
• Apply machining theory, best practice, mechanical systems, welding and assembly to design tooling in support of turbomachinery repair and manufacturing.
• Complete understanding of product tolerance stack ups and datum structures and how these apply to designing appropriate tooling fixtures.
• Must have excellent math skills, specifically shop math (i.e. Trigonometry).
• Must exhibit behaviors that reflect our Safety Values and understand factory process safety rules and requirements.
• Ability to interact with employees/managers at all levels with strong oral and written communication skills
• Ability to effectively contribute to and perform within a team while possessing the capability to work independently with minimal supervision
• Ability to review, interpret and upgrade heritage/legacy tooling designs to modern standards, applications and practices.
• Ability to discuss, comprehend and adhere to established or agreed-to budgets for the design of tooling (models and drawings).
• Requires U.S. Citizenship and ability to obtain DOD clearance

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience in adoption and/or integration of emerging technologies (e.g., generative AI, automation platforms, digital assistants) into day-to-day operations for continuous improvement.
• The QDSS Advantage: At QDSS, our advantage is purpose-driven work, collaborative teams, and complex challenges that push boundaries and build lasting impact. You’ll grow your career while contributing to mission-critical programs that demand excellence and shape the future.

What You’ll Find Here

Work That Matters – Next-generation, safety- and mission-critical projects where your contributions have real-world impact.

Growth That’s Supported – Competitive compensation, employer-matched 401(k), certification assistance, and clear opportunities for advancement.

A Culture That Works – A flexible, collaborative, and people-first environment where teamwork, innovation, and balance are valued.