Design Engineer - Jigs and Fixtures

DESIGN ENGINEER (JIGS & FIXTURES)

POSITION SUMMARY

Responsible for the end-to-end design, development, and validation of high-precision jigs and fixtures specifically for gadget manufacturing. This role bridges the gap between customer concepts and shop-floor execution, ensuring that all tooling meets stringent precision, repeatability, and "First Article" success standards.

CORE RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Technical Analysis & Customer Liaison

• 3D Model Study: Perform a detailed audit of customer-provided 3D models / 2D drawings to identify assembly constraints and critical dimensions.
• Gap Analysis: Detect DFM/DFA gaps and communicate directly with the customer to resolve technical ambiguities.
• Acceptance Criteria: Define the specific performance and quality benchmarks for each fixture.

2. Design & Component Selection

• BOP Management: Select and specify Bought-Out Parts (BOP), including identifying equivalent makes to optimize cost and lead times.
  • Mechanical: Precision bearings, linear rails, and slide ways.
  • Pneumatics: Cylinders, DCV valves, and manifold systems.
  • Automation: PLCs, HMI units, and sensors (Proximity, Optical, Magnetic).
  • Electrical: Switches, push buttons, and wiring harnesses.

3. Documentation & Standards

• Assembly Guides: Create visual, step-by-step assembly instructions for the toolroom.
• Check Sheets: Develop comprehensive inspection check sheets to verify fixture build quality.

4. Execution & Validation

• Troubleshooting: Lead the technical debugging of fixtures during the assembly and testing phases.
• FAI Support: Actively support the assembly team during First Article Inspection (FAI) to ensure the fixture delivers parts that meet 100% of customer specifications.

TECHNICAL SKILLS & QUALIFICATIONS

• CAD Mastery: Expert-level proficiency in 3D modeling software (e.g., SolidWorks, CATIA, or NX).
• Pneumatic/Electrical Logic: Ability to design actuation sequences and sensor integration for automated fixtures.
• Analytical Thinking: Strong root-cause analysis skills for troubleshooting mechanical misalignments.
• Precision Focus: Deep understanding of tolerance stack-up and high-precision manufacturing techniques.

KEY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS (KPIs)

1. Fixture Accuracy: Zero deviation from defined Acceptance Criteria.
2. FAI Success Rate: Achieving "Right First Time" on First Article Inspections.
3. Documentation Clarity: Zero errors in Assembly Instructions and Check Sheets.