Tool & Fixture Specialist

Build the Tools That Keep Aerospace Moving Forward

Tool & Fixture Specialist | New Orleans, LA

PDS Tech Commercial is partnering with a leader in the aerospace industry to hire a skilled Tool & Fixture Specialist who will play a critical role in supporting safe, efficient, and compliant manufacturing operations. If you thrive in a hands‑on, high‑impact environment where precision and safety matter, this is an opportunity to put your expertise to work on meaningful aerospace programs.

As a Tool & Fixture Specialist, you will support manufacturing and operations by designing, fabricating, repairing, inspecting, and validating complex tools and handling equipment. Your work will directly impact production readiness, safety compliance, and equipment reliability across crane, forklift, and below‑the‑hook operations.

This is a full‑time, 12‑month consulting assignment with consistent first‑shift hours and onsite work in New Orleans, LA.

• Perform complex tool setup activities, including alignment and leveling

• Inspect tools and fixtures using approved documentation and standards

• Manufacture, repair, and modify assembly and fabrication tools using manual and CNC equipment

• Design tooling based on engineering drawings or internal customer requests

• Determine fabrication and assembly processes; reverse engineer tooling and processes as needed

• Demonstrate tooling functionality by producing first articles and resolving tooling issues

• Provide tooling and crane/forklift support to manufacturing teams

• Conduct routine and complex proof‑load testing using weights, scales, and rigging

• Train internal users on proper use, repair, and maintenance of handling equipment

• Verify structural integrity and regulatory compliance of handling equipment

• Review proof‑load tests, inspection records, and maintenance documentation

• Work within systems such as MES, CMES, Maximo/CRPMS, Cribmaster, and Outlook

• Recommend process improvements to increase safety, reliability, and reduce downtime

• High School Diploma or GED

• Typically 4+ years of related experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience (vocational/associate degree with experience, or bachelor’s degree)

• Experience with tool fabrication, repair, inspection, and setup

• Knowledge of proof‑load testing, rigging, and handling equipment

• Ability to interpret engineering drawings and technical documentation

• Familiarity with MES, CRPMS, and basic business software

• Ability to lift up to 35 lbs and perform physical tasks including standing, climbing, and operating factory support equipment

• This position requires use of information or access to facilities subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and/or Export Administration Regulations (EAR). These regulations may limit access of controlled technologies:
  1) to U.S. Persons, including U.S. Citizens, lawful permanent residents, and other narrow categories including refugees and asylees, or
  2) to certain foreign nationals that have received an export license.

• Ability to obtain and maintain a NASA badge

• Experience supporting crane and forklift operations

• Background working in aerospace, manufacturing, or regulated environments

• Experience mentoring or guiding less experienced technicians

• Strong attention to detail and commitment to safety and compliance

At PDS Tech Commercial, we connect skilled professionals with impactful projects at the forefront of aerospace innovation. You’ll work in a collaborative, safety‑focused environment where your expertise is valued and your contributions make a measurable difference.

• Competitive pay Starting at: $36.11 per hour

• Stable first‑shift schedule:
  Monday–Friday, 6:00 AM–2:30 PM

• Overtime opportunities

• Professional exposure to high‑profile aerospace programs

• Supportive consulting experience with a trusted industry partner

If you’re ready to bring your tooling expertise to an aerospace environment where precision, safety, and quality are paramount, we want to hear from you.