STEM OPT Tool Engineer Jobs
Tool Engineer roles in manufacturing, aerospace, and precision machining qualify for the STEM OPT extension, giving you up to 24 additional months of work authorization beyond your initial OPT period. Your employer must be enrolled in E-Verify, and your degree must align with an approved STEM CIP code to qualify.
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Get Access To All JobsINTRODUCTION
This role is at Spirit AeroSystems, Inc. a wholly owned subsidiary of The Boeing Company, supporting Spirit’s Commercial Business Units (“Spirit Commercial”). Spirit Commercial designs and builds commercial aerostructures, including for Boeing Commercial Airplanes, one of Boeing’s three business units and the premier manufacturer of commercial jetliners for decades. Spirit Commercial’s core products include fuselages, pylons, nacelles and wing components, with a focus on innovative composite and aluminum manufacturing solutions.
Responsibilities
Position Responsibilities:
- Applies engineering principles and technical knowledge to the design and support of airplane manufacturing tools (e.g., access equipment and structures, handling and transportation, test equipment, gauges, assembly jigs, drill equipment, etc.)
- Develops designs that include concept; analysis of structural, and mechanical systems; and definition of the tool, ensuring compliance with company and governmental processes, policies, and procedures.
- Identifies, designs, and implements advanced technologies to improve manufacturing processes.
- Resolves concerns arising during the fabrication process and maintenance disposition, requiring such engineering principles as stress analysis, mechanics of materials.
- Conducts trade and cost studies. Integrates define and produce activities across the tool family to ensure that parts meet definition and manufacturing plan requirements.
- Provides technical knowledge and leadership to projects requiring key tool engineering competencies (e.g., jig and fixturing methods and concepts, hole preparation, automated drilling and fastener systems, test systems, part handling and transportation, etc.) to increase the efficiency of manufacturing processes.
- Focuses on achieving excellent customer service by leading process improvement activities, process and product optimization strategies, and technology development and software applications. Interfaces technical and administrative knowledge across programs, functions and organization boundaries and levels within the scope of assignment.
- Creates and articulates accurate detailed instructions and media for the fabrication of detail, assembly, and digital database tooling.
- Produces tool layouts and assists in the fabrication and verification of tool deliverables.
- Lays out or creates computer-generated models in conjunction with numerical control data preparation for the fabrication of tooling deliverables (e.g., master tooling, computer-generated tooling, flat pattern layouts, computer master database models, etc.).
- Acts as liaison, provides producibility and manufacturing input, and electronic measurement services for internal and external customers.
- Monitors quality through statistical process control and other verification methods.
- Interfaces with production manufacturing, product definition, manufacturing engineering, and external customers.
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
- Bachelor's of Science in Aerospace, Mechanical, Industrial Engineering or other related course of study from an ABET accredited University OR a Master’s degree with 2 to 4 years' experience in a related classification / position
- 3+ years of related experience
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Microsoft applications
- 3D Printing, NC programming, composite/assembly jig building process.
- Experience with CAD (CATIA V5/V6, NX, 3DX, Siemen…ect.)
- Experience with structural analysis. Methods include the use of both classical hand calculations and computer techniques, infinite element and software uses such as NASTRAN/PATRAN, FDA/FEMAP. Understanding the structure loading and environment including applied loads, loads for initial Sizing and Development, interface Loads in Static, Fatigue, Deflection and Surface analysis.
- Experience with SAP
UNION
This is a union-represented position.
DRUG FREE WORKPLACE
We are a Drug Free Workplace where post offer applicants and employees are subject to testing for marijuana, cocaine, opioids, amphetamines, PCP, and alcohol when criteria are met as outlined in our policies.
PAY & BENEFITS
We strive to deliver a Total Rewards package that will attract, engage and retain the top talent. Elements of the Total Rewards package include competitive base pay and variable compensation opportunities.
We also provide eligible employees with an opportunity to enroll in a variety of benefit programs, generally including health insurance, flexible spending accounts, health savings accounts, retirement savings plans, life and disability insurance programs, and a number of programs that provide for both paid and unpaid time away from work.
The specific programs and options available to any given employee may vary depending on eligibility factors such as geographic location, date of hire, and the applicability of collective bargaining agreements.
Pay is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
Summary Pay Range: $75,850 - $116,300
Kansas Tax Credit: Join Spirit AeroSystems’ Kansas team and you may be eligible for a $5,000 state of Kansas Aviation tax credit for up to five years. Click here for more information on the tax credit.
INTRODUCTION
This role is at Spirit AeroSystems, Inc. a wholly owned subsidiary of The Boeing Company, supporting Spirit’s Commercial Business Units (“Spirit Commercial”). Spirit Commercial designs and builds commercial aerostructures, including for Boeing Commercial Airplanes, one of Boeing’s three business units and the premier manufacturer of commercial jetliners for decades. Spirit Commercial’s core products include fuselages, pylons, nacelles and wing components, with a focus on innovative composite and aluminum manufacturing solutions.
Responsibilities
Position Responsibilities:
- Applies engineering principles and technical knowledge to the design and support of airplane manufacturing tools (e.g., access equipment and structures, handling and transportation, test equipment, gauges, assembly jigs, drill equipment, etc.)
- Develops designs that include concept; analysis of structural, and mechanical systems; and definition of the tool, ensuring compliance with company and governmental processes, policies, and procedures.
- Identifies, designs, and implements advanced technologies to improve manufacturing processes.
- Resolves concerns arising during the fabrication process and maintenance disposition, requiring such engineering principles as stress analysis, mechanics of materials.
- Conducts trade and cost studies. Integrates define and produce activities across the tool family to ensure that parts meet definition and manufacturing plan requirements.
- Provides technical knowledge and leadership to projects requiring key tool engineering competencies (e.g., jig and fixturing methods and concepts, hole preparation, automated drilling and fastener systems, test systems, part handling and transportation, etc.) to increase the efficiency of manufacturing processes.
- Focuses on achieving excellent customer service by leading process improvement activities, process and product optimization strategies, and technology development and software applications. Interfaces technical and administrative knowledge across programs, functions and organization boundaries and levels within the scope of assignment.
- Creates and articulates accurate detailed instructions and media for the fabrication of detail, assembly, and digital database tooling.
- Produces tool layouts and assists in the fabrication and verification of tool deliverables.
- Lays out or creates computer-generated models in conjunction with numerical control data preparation for the fabrication of tooling deliverables (e.g., master tooling, computer-generated tooling, flat pattern layouts, computer master database models, etc.).
- Acts as liaison, provides producibility and manufacturing input, and electronic measurement services for internal and external customers.
- Monitors quality through statistical process control and other verification methods.
- Interfaces with production manufacturing, product definition, manufacturing engineering, and external customers.
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
- Bachelor's of Science in Aerospace, Mechanical, Industrial Engineering or other related course of study from an ABET accredited University OR a Master’s degree with 2 to 4 years' experience in a related classification / position
- 3+ years of related experience
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Microsoft applications
- 3D Printing, NC programming, composite/assembly jig building process.
- Experience with CAD (CATIA V5/V6, NX, 3DX, Siemen…ect.)
- Experience with structural analysis. Methods include the use of both classical hand calculations and computer techniques, infinite element and software uses such as NASTRAN/PATRAN, FDA/FEMAP. Understanding the structure loading and environment including applied loads, loads for initial Sizing and Development, interface Loads in Static, Fatigue, Deflection and Surface analysis.
- Experience with SAP
UNION
This is a union-represented position.
DRUG FREE WORKPLACE
We are a Drug Free Workplace where post offer applicants and employees are subject to testing for marijuana, cocaine, opioids, amphetamines, PCP, and alcohol when criteria are met as outlined in our policies.
PAY & BENEFITS
We strive to deliver a Total Rewards package that will attract, engage and retain the top talent. Elements of the Total Rewards package include competitive base pay and variable compensation opportunities.
We also provide eligible employees with an opportunity to enroll in a variety of benefit programs, generally including health insurance, flexible spending accounts, health savings accounts, retirement savings plans, life and disability insurance programs, and a number of programs that provide for both paid and unpaid time away from work.
The specific programs and options available to any given employee may vary depending on eligibility factors such as geographic location, date of hire, and the applicability of collective bargaining agreements.
Pay is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
Summary Pay Range: $75,850 - $116,300
Kansas Tax Credit: Join Spirit AeroSystems’ Kansas team and you may be eligible for a $5,000 state of Kansas Aviation tax credit for up to five years. Click here for more information on the tax credit.
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Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding STEM OPT Authorization as a Tool Engineer
Verify your CIP code before applying
Check your degree's Classification of Instructional Programs code against the DHS STEM Designated Degree Program List before you apply. Mechanical engineering, industrial engineering, and materials science degrees commonly support Tool Engineer roles, but manufacturing technology programs vary by institution.
Confirm E-Verify enrollment before accepting offers
Ask recruiters directly whether their company is enrolled in E-Verify before your final interview round. Manufacturers and contract shops sometimes lack enrollment, which disqualifies them as STEM OPT employers regardless of the role's technical fit.
Target employers with active STEM OPT training plans
Search Migrate Mate to find Tool Engineer roles at E-Verify-enrolled employers with documented histories of sponsoring STEM OPT students. Filtering by employer E-Verify status early removes candidates that can't legally extend your authorization.
Build your I-983 training plan around tooling competencies
Your I-983 must connect your STEM degree to specific on-the-job learning goals. For Tool Engineer roles, document measurable objectives around GD&T application, fixture design, or CAM programming rather than listing generic engineering tasks that don't reflect the position.
File your STEM OPT extension at least 90 days early
USCIS recommends submitting your extension application no earlier than 90 days before your initial OPT expires. Late filing after your EAD expires means an immediate gap in authorization, which can disqualify you from active Tool Engineer positions mid-hiring process.
Use the OFLC Wage Search to benchmark your offer
Tool Engineer prevailing wages vary significantly by metro area and industry classification. Run the OFLC Wage Search using your SOC code before negotiating, so you can verify your offer meets DOL wage requirements and flag discrepancies before your I-983 is submitted.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Tool Engineer role qualify for the STEM OPT extension?
Tool Engineer positions typically qualify if your degree is on the DHS STEM Designated Degree Program List and the role uses that STEM knowledge directly. Degrees in mechanical engineering, industrial engineering, manufacturing engineering, and materials science are the most common qualifying fields. Confirm your specific CIP code with your DSO before filing.
Does my Tool Engineer employer have to be enrolled in E-Verify?
Yes. E-Verify enrollment is a hard requirement for all STEM OPT employers, not just a best practice. If your employer isn't enrolled at the time you file your extension, USCIS will deny it. Verify enrollment through the E-Verify employer search tool before you accept an offer, not after.
What goes into the I-983 training plan for a Tool Engineer position?
Your I-983 must describe how the Tool Engineer role connects to your STEM degree through specific, measurable learning objectives. For this role, that typically includes competencies in tooling design, fixture development, tolerance analysis, or manufacturing process optimization. Generic descriptions that don't tie back to your degree field can trigger a USCIS request for evidence.
What happens to my work authorization if my H-1B is selected in the lottery while I'm on STEM OPT?
Cap-gap protection extends your STEM OPT EAD automatically if your H-1B visa petition is filed before your current OPT expires and the H-1B start date is October 1. You can continue working as a Tool Engineer in the same role during this period without interruption, as long as your employer remains E-Verify enrolled and your I-983 stays current.
Where can I find Tool Engineer jobs at E-Verify-enrolled employers?
Migrate Mate filters Tool Engineer roles by E-Verify enrollment status, so you're only seeing positions where the STEM OPT extension is actually possible. That saves time you'd otherwise spend confirming employer eligibility after applying. Search by location, industry, and authorization type to narrow results to roles that match your degree and timeline.