Manufacturing Engineer/Tooling Specialist

Why Join LeClaire Manufacturing?

At LeClaire Manufacturing, you'll be part of a team that values innovation, craftsmanship, and collaboration. As a growing company with deep roots in precision aluminum casting and machining, we offer a dynamic environment where your ideas and skills directly impact our success. You'll enjoy the opportunity to work with cutting-edge technology, contribute to exciting new product launches, and grow your career alongside passionate professionals. We believe in investing in our people, fostering a culture of continuous improvement, and celebrating the pride that comes from building something exceptional.

Position Summary:

We are seeking a highly versatile Manufacturing Engineer / Tooling Specialist to support a fast-paced startup manufacturing environment. This role will flex between designing and building machining fixtures, permanent molds, and foundry patterns; and programming CNCs to meet evolving production demands. The proportion of design, fabrication, and CNC programming work will shift based on the immediate needs of the startup phase and early production ramp-up.

Key Responsibilities:

- Design & Engineering

- Create 3D CAD models and detailed drawings for machining fixtures, permanent molds, and patterns.

- Collaborate with engineering, quality, and production teams to optimize designs for manufacturability and performance.

- Incorporate mold flow or machining simulation feedback into final designs.

- Fabrication & Toolmaking

- Manufacture tooling in-house using manual and CNC machining equipment, additive manufacturing, and standard shop tools.

- Assemble, fit, and finish molds, patterns, and fixtures to meet production specifications.

- Troubleshoot and repair tooling to minimize downtime.

- CNC Programming

- Develop and optimize CNC programs (3-, 4-, and 5-axis as applicable) for fixture components, patterns, and production parts.

- Select tooling, work holding, and cutting strategies to improve cycle time, quality, and tool life.

- Validate programs through simulation and on-machine prove-out.

- Cross-Functional Startup Support

- Shift seamlessly between design, hands-on toolmaking, and programming depending on production priorities.

- Support first-run trials, PPAPs, and process optimization efforts.

- Maintain accurate documentation and revision control for tooling and programs.

Qualifications:

- Proven experience designing and building machining fixtures, permanent molds, and patterns.

- Proficiency in CAD (SolidWorks, Inventor, etc.) and CAM (Mastercam, Fusion 360, etc.) software.

- Strong CNC programming skills and hands-on machining experience.

- Familiarity with aluminum casting and machining processes preferred.

- Ability to move quickly between varied tasks and priorities in a startup environment.

- Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.

Attributes for Success:

- Adaptable and resourceful, able to adjust workload focus daily.

- Communicative and collaborative across multiple departments.

- Quality-minded with pride in craftsmanship.

- Self-driven and capable of taking projects from concept through completion.

Physical Requirements:

- Ability to lift up to 50 lbs.

- Comfortable working in both office/design and shop floor environments.

- Able to stand for extended periods when operating equipment.

Ready to Make an Impact?

If you're a hands-on problem solver who thrives in a fast-paced, collaborative environment, we invite you to bring your expertise to LeClaire Manufacturing. This is more than just a job—it's a chance to shape the future of a growing company while honing your skills across design, fabrication, and CNC programming. Join us and be part of a team that values craftsmanship, innovation, and continuous improvement. Apply today and help us build something extraordinary.