Lead Tooling Engineer (FAIT)

Otto Aerospace is developing the world’s first fifth-generation sustainable business jet using advanced aerodynamics and composites, validated by flight tests that reduce fuel consumption and improve cabin comfort. The company offers a hybrid role initially based in Ft Worth, TX, transitioning to full onsite in Jacksonville, FL by late 2026, with a comprehensive benefits package and a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in hiring practices.  

About Otto Aerospace  

OTTO is developing the world’s first fifth-generation business jet, designed for sustainability through the innovative use of advanced super-laminar aerodynamics and high-precision, net-shaped composites. Flight tests of our technology demonstrator validate a dramatic reduction in fuel burn and allow a sizeable improvement in cabin comfort. Otto Aerospace is designing world-class aircraft from first principles physics and delivering ground-breaking aircraft and economic performance.  

 About the Role  

The Lead Tooling Engineer (FAIT Tooling) is responsible for the technical leadership, design, development, procurement, and implementation of production tooling in support of OTTO’s manufacturing programs. This role serves as the technical authority for tooling strategy, ensures alignment with manufacturing, quality, and design engineering, and helps lead the tooling team through concept, design, fabrication, validation, and production support. 

This position requires strong hands-on engineering capability, supplier management experience, and the ability to lead tooling efforts from prototype through full-rate production in a fast-paced aerospace environment. 

What You'll Do  

• Work with the Tooling Manager to define tooling strategy and architecture to support Design Development Builds, flight testing, LRIP, and FRP builds
• Establish best practices, standards, and design guidelines for jigs, fixtures, molds, mandrels, trim tools, drill tools, assembly tooling among other tooling opportunities
• Works with relevant stakeholders on design and development of: 
• Assembly jigs and fixtures 
• Drill templates and match-drill tooling 
• Composite layup tools, molds, mandrels, and trim fixtures 
• Integration and alignment tooling 
• Ensure tooling designs meet GD&T, structural, technical specifications, tolerance, ergonomics, safety, and producibility requirements
• Review and approve tooling designs, layouts, and drawings prior to release
• Drive continuous improvement, cost reduction, and cycle time improvements to existing tooling
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior tooling and mechanical engineers
• Participate in hiring, onboarding, and performance feedback for tooling department team members

 Who You Are  

  Education: 

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or related field 

 Experience: 

• 5 - 7 years of experience in mechanical/tooling engineering within aerospace or high-precision manufacturing
• Proven experience designing and implementing: 
• Assembly jigs and fixtures 
• Composite tooling (preferred) 
• Precision alignment and drill tooling 
• Experience supporting builds in prototype, flight test, or production environments
• Experience with CATIA, 3DX 
• Experience supporting Aerospace Programs
• Previous experience leading small engineering teams or acting as technical lead

  Required Skills: 

• Strong knowledge of GD&T, tolerance analysis, and datum structures
• Experience in airframe structures, composite structures, or final assembly tooling
• Experience with CATIA, 3DX, NX
• Knowledge of AS9100 and aerospace quality systems
• Ability to work in fast-paced, high-ambiguity environments
• Excellent communication across engineering, manufacturing, and leadership
• Structured problem-solving and root cause analysis skills 
• Hands-on, “get it done” mentality with a focus on execution
• Ability to spend time on the manufacturing floor supporting builds

 Where You'll Be  

 ** This role will be remote with 25% Travel until mid/late 2026, at which time it will transition to full onsite in Jacksonville, FL. 

Benefits  

Otto Aerospace provides a robust benefits package that includes competitive salaries, subsidized medical, dental, and vision coverage, 401(k) opportunities, paid short term disability, voluntary long-term disability and additional term life, with 15 paid days off, 13 paid company holidays, and paid sick leave. Depending on seniority and role, some roles qualify for potential bonuses and stock options.  

  Otto Aerospace is an Equal Opportunity Employer   

We are committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion in every aspect of our hiring process. All applicants will be considered for employment regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or disability. We believe that a diverse team brings fresh perspectives, innovative ideas, and greater success. The more inclusive we are, the stronger we become. Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the U.S.  

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