Master Digital Tooling Engineer

The Master Digital Tooling Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, upgrading, and sustaining production tooling, assembly jigs, fixtures, gauges, and installation aids that support aircraft build‑up, section assembly, and final mate operations. This role blends hands‑on production support with engineering rigor to ensure tooling solutions improve quality, reduce cost, and enable rate production. The engineer also supports digital transformation activities, including oversight of master tool scanning operations and validation of digital scan data.

Due to the nature of these roles, applicants must be a US Citizen. This role is 100% onsite in Marietta, GA.

What You Will Be Doing

Tooling & Production Support

• Support production ramp‑up by developing and improving tooling, assembly jigs, installation tools, temporary tooling, and job aides to enhance efficiency and quality.


• Integrate solutions with Quality, Planning, Engineering, and Liaison teams to resolve manufacturing issues and ensure seamless collaboration.


• Apply technical expertise in aircraft assembly, sheet metal fabrication, structural installation, and system installation to support new builds, upgrades, and rate production.

Digital Tooling & Scanning Responsibilities

• Oversee and coordinate the scanning of master control tools, production detail parts, and assemblies performed by third‑party suppliers. Ensure proper setup, sequencing, and data capture quality.


• Perform validation tasks for digital scanned data—including 3D models and point‑cloud datasets—to ensure accuracy, completeness, and alignment with engineering requirements.


• Review and validate digital models in Catia V5 and support corrective actions when discrepancies arise.

Production Optimization & Corrective Action

• Evaluate build sequences, installation plans, operations card flow, and in‑process testing requirements; coordinate corrective actions to eliminate bottlenecks.


• Troubleshoot production operations, address shortages, manage out‑of‑station rework, and incorporate engineering changes effectively.

Training, Quality, and Continuous Improvement

• Provide training, lessons learned, and best practices to touch labor, peer Manufacturing Engineers, and support functions.


• Lead quality issue coordination, Material Review Board (MRB) activities, rework/repair planning, First Article Inspection (FAI), and Root Cause Corrective Action (RCCA).


• Use solid modeling, CAD tools, and data analysis to design new tooling and evaluate cost‑saving opportunities for existing tools, gauges, fixtures, and assembly aids.

Key Experience Needed

• Bachelor’s in Mechanical engineering


• 5+ Years of Tooling Experience


• Proficiency using Catia V5 preferably or 3DExperience, or Siemens NX to model parts, create assemblies, and perform clash analysis, hands‑on experience reviewing, validating, and resolving issues in complex digital models.


• Extensive experience in manufacturing sub‑assemblies and major aircraft assemblies.


• Proficiency in wiring, systems installation, and functional testing.


• Hands‑on experience with structural installations, control linkage systems, panel/door installations, and flight control surface installations.


• In‑depth knowledge of assembly tooling, production aides, handheld tools, and fixture‑driven tooling.


• Familiarity with manufacturing planning/work instructions and continuous improvement aligned with engineering drawing requirements.

Desired Skills

• Preferred experience supporting F‑16, F‑18, F‑22, F‑35, C‑130, or prior production operations.


• Ability to work independently as a consultant and subject matter expert across multiple build teams.


• Strong attention to detail, diligence, and a proactive approach to tooling, digital validation, and test coverage.


• Excellent communication skills and ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast‑paced production environment.


• Strong analytical and troubleshooting skills with a hands‑on approach.


• Experience in adoption and/or integration of emerging technologies (e.g., generative AI, automation platforms, digital assistants) into day-to-day operations for continuous improvement.

Physical Requirements & Work Environment:

• Mostly Office Environments, Occasional Shop Floor involvement.


• Substantial amounts of telephone, video conferencing and computer work.


• Heavily Regulated Industries with strict adherence to procedures.


• Flexibility to meet business deadlines by staying late or arriving early.


• Typical 8 hour days plus lunch / 40 hour weeks / core (required) hours are 9AM to 4PM


• Ability to use personal transportation to visit customer locations

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

The QDSS Advantage:  

At QDSS, our advantage is purpose-driven work, collaborative teams, and complex challenges that push boundaries and build lasting impact. You’ll grow your career while contributing to mission-critical programs that demand excellence and shape the future. 

What You’ll Find Here 

• Work That Matters – Next-generation, safety- and mission-critical projects where your contributions have real-world impact. 


• Growth That’s Supported – Competitive compensation, employer-matched 401(k), certification assistance, and clear opportunities for advancement. 


• A Culture That Works – A flexible, collaborative, and people-first environment where teamwork, innovation, and balance are valued. 

Benefits Include 

• Competitive pay, comprehensive medical/dental/life and disability coverage, 401(k) with employer match, professional development support, and a flexible, friendly workplace. 

At Quest Defense Systems and Solutions, we don’t just build technology — we engineer the future. From next-generation aerospace solutions to cutting-edge defense systems, we tackle the toughest, mission-critical challenges that keep people safe and push the boundaries of innovation. This is where problem-solvers, innovators, and visionary thinkers come together to shape the future. With over 25 years of aerospace and defense engineering expertise, our commitment to delivering high-quality, transformative solutions sets us apart — not just as an industry leader, but as a driving force for impactful change. Together, we’re not just leading the industry — we’re revolutionizing it.

Quest Defense provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.