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Manufacturing Engineer 1 -Tooling & Fixture Design (Entry Level)

MICROBEST INC
Waterbury, CT Full Time
POSTED ON 2/27/2026
AVAILABLE BEFORE 4/26/2026
Description:Essential Duties and ResponsibilitiesAssist in the design of CNC workholding fixtures (milling/turning/secondary ops) to improve part stability, repeatability, and throughput.Create and maintain 2D/3D CAD models and drawings for fixtures, soft jaws, nests, clamps, and related tooling.Collaborate with engineers, tool room machinists and CNC operators to review fixture concepts, incorporate feedback, and support build/debug.Support fixture prove-outs on the shop floor; document results and implement revisions as needed.Assist with process documentation including set-up sheets, work instructions, tooling lists, and basic process flow documentation.Support continuous improvement efforts (cycle time reduction, scrap reduction, ergonomic/safety improvements) using structured problem-solving.Participate in root cause analysis for fixture- or process-related quality issues (5-Why, fishbone) and help implement corrective actions.Help standardize tooling/fixture components and support basic tooling inventory and identification practices.Assist with engineering changes affecting fixturing, gaging, and process steps; update documentation accordingly.Work cross-functionally with Quality and Inspection to ensure fixtures support print requirements and measurement strategy.Follow all safety policies; support EHS requirements related to guarding, clamping forces, pinch points, and safe setup practices.Requirements:RequiredBachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or related field (0–2 years experience).Basic understanding of machining concepts (turning/milling), fixturing fundamentals, and how workholding impacts quality.Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, familiarity with basic GD&T concepts.Working knowledge of CAD (SolidWorks preferred; equivalent acceptable).Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and willingness to be hands-on in a manufacturing environment.Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Excel/Word).Preferredco-op in machining, tooling, or manufacturing engineering.Exposure to fixture design principles: locating schemes (3-2-1), datum strategy, clamp methods, repeatability.Familiarity with common shop measuring tools and concepts (calipers, micrometers, indicators).Basic knowledge of machining process planning and tooling selection.Experience with ERP/MRP systems or basic BOM/tool lists.Key CompetenciesPractical mechanical aptitude and curiosityClear communication with machinists/operatorsDesign-for-manufacturability mindsetDocumentation discipline and follow-throughStructured problem-solvingAbility to prioritize and manage multiple requestsWork Environment / Physical RequirementsCombination of office and shop-floor work; PPE required.Ability to stand/walk for extended periods and occasionally lift up to 25 lbs.Will frequently support tool room builds and production prove-outs at machines.What Success Looks Like (first 6–12 months)Designs and releases simple fixtures with supervision, then progressively more complex workholding.Builds strong relationships with tool room and operators; responds quickly to production needs.Helps reduce setup time, improves repeatability, and contributes to scrap reduction through better workholding.Tools/SoftwareSolidWorks (or similar CAD), basic CAM exposure a plus, Excel, and document control practices.Compensation:Competitive salary commensurate with experience.PTOBenefits package includes health, dental, vision, 401(k), 401(k) Company Match, Short and Long term Disability and more.Microbest is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

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