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Founding Tooling Engineer, Special Projects Division

Hadrian - Manufacturing the Future

Hadrian is building autonomous factories that help aerospace and defense companies make rockets, jets, and satellites 10x faster and 2x cheaper. Our CEO, Chris Power, discusses the importance of what we're building in this video.

We are a lean but mighty team (and growing!) people that are passionate about building critical infrastructure to support the nation and the advancement of humanity.

We've raised >$200m to achieve this vision, with multiple rounds from Lux Capital, A16Z, Founders Fund, Construct Capital, Caffeinated Capital and more.

We use AI and Robotics to automate and scale factories that are globally cost competitive and future-proof from the dramatic skilled labor shortage that is facing the Advanced Industrial Base.

Hadrian works with startups, Primes and Tier 1/2s in all markets to cost-down, scale or otherwise enable them to hit production rates on critical programs in Rocketry, Satellites, Shipbuilding, Commercial and Military aircraft and other core, mission critical industries.

We are looking to hire both ICs and Managers! If you want to learn more, please apply or contact our team directly.

The Role

You will be a founding member of Hadrian’s new Special Projects division, collaborating directly with the CEO and engineering leadership. This division is responsible for focusing on ambitious R&D projects and serving as engineering experts on new business opportunities. 

This foundational role centers on the design, development, and implementation of precision tooling systems that support efficient, high-quality, large-scale manufacturing. This role will collaborate closely with cross-functional teams to create innovative tooling solutions for large parts and assemblies, with a focus on performance, reliability, and scalability.

You will play a key role in supporting new production capabilities by contributing hands-on technical work and strategic input. 

Your responsibilities will include, but not be limited to, the following:

  • Design structural and mechanical tooling to support large components and assemblies.

  • Collaborate with engineering teams and vendors to build, source, and implement tooling systems.

  • Work with technicians and manufacturing teams to ensure proper installation and use of tooling.

  • Support testing, validation, and continuous improvement of tooling across the production lifecycle.

  • Provide clear documentation, technical guidance, and support for internal and external stakeholders.

What We’re Looking For:

  • Strong understanding of manufacturing processes and how tooling supports quality and production efficiency.

  • Experience in designing tooling systems for complex or large-scale parts and assemblies, such as machining or welding.

  • Ability to contribute to both prototyping and continuous improvement efforts.

  • Demonstrated ability to perform FEA and static analysis to validate tooling under real-world conditions with proficiency in 3D modeling and simulation tools (e.g., SolidWorks, CATIA, NX, or ANSYS).

  • Knowledge of material selection and fabrication techniques suitable for high-load or high-temperature environments.

What will set you apart:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Aerospace, Physics, or a related STEM field.

  • Strong analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills.

  • Comfortable working in fast-paced, multidisciplinary environments with evolving priorities.

  • Experience working with cross-functional teams including design, quality, and automation.

Benefits:

  • 100% coverage of platinum medical, dental, vision, and life insurance plans for employees

  • 401k

  • Relocation stipend if you’re moving from outside of LA

  • Flexible vacation policy


It is the policy of Hadrian Automation, Inc. to provide equal employment opportunities without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, marital status, veteran status, sexual orientation, genetic information or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.


ITAR Requirements
To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about the ITAR here.

Average salary estimate

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$120000K

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What You Should Know About Founding Tooling Engineer, Special Projects Division, Hadrian Automation

As a Founding Tooling Engineer in the Special Projects Division at Hadrian, based in Los Angeles, you'll embark on an exciting journey to reshape the future of manufacturing. Imagine being part of a dynamic team dedicated to building autonomous factories that revolutionize the aerospace and defense industries—making rockets, jets, and satellites faster and more cost-effective than ever before! At Hadrian, we're not just a company; we're a passionate group of innovators focused on developing cutting-edge tooling systems that will provide the backbone of efficient, high-quality manufacturing. Collaborating closely with our CEO and engineering leaders, you'll be responsible for designing and implementing sophisticated tooling solutions for large parts and assemblies, ensuring performance, reliability, and scalability. Whether you're working with cross-functional teams or hands-on in the production environment, your contributions will be instrumental in meeting the demands of critical programs across various sectors. With a supportive company culture, you'll also enjoy excellent employee benefits, including comprehensive healthcare and a flexible vacation policy. If you’re ready to dive into pioneering projects and make a tangible impact in the advanced industrial landscape, then Hadrian is the perfect place for you to grow your career as a Founding Tooling Engineer!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Founding Tooling Engineer, Special Projects Division Role at Hadrian Automation
What responsibilities does a Founding Tooling Engineer have at Hadrian?

As a Founding Tooling Engineer at Hadrian, you will engage in the design and implementation of precision tooling systems that are essential for large-scale manufacturing. Your responsibilities will involve collaborating with different teams, sourcing and building tooling systems, ensuring their effective installation, and continuously improving them throughout the production lifecycle.

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What qualifications are required for a Founding Tooling Engineer at Hadrian?

To become a Founding Tooling Engineer at Hadrian, candidates should have a strong understanding of manufacturing processes, along with experience in designing tooling for complex parts. A Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Aerospace, Physics, or a related field is crucial, as well as proficiency in tools like SolidWorks or ANSYS for design and simulation.

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How does a Founding Tooling Engineer at Hadrian contribute to R&D projects?

At Hadrian, the Founding Tooling Engineer will be a key player in ambitious R&D projects within the Special Projects Division. Your expertise will enable you to support new business opportunities by developing innovative tooling systems that enhance manufacturing capabilities, contributing both hands-on and strategic insights to R&D initiatives.

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What skills are important for a Founding Tooling Engineer at Hadrian?

Important skills for a Founding Tooling Engineer at Hadrian include strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities, effective communication, and a detailed understanding of tooling mechanisms. You should also be proficient in 3D modeling and analysis tools, capable of thriving in fast-paced environments with evolving priorities.

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What kind of projects will a Founding Tooling Engineer work on at Hadrian?

As a Founding Tooling Engineer at Hadrian, you will work on various ambitious projects focused on the design of tooling systems for large components used in aerospace and defense, such as rockets and aircraft. You'll collaborate with cross-functional teams to innovate and improve tools that ensure precision and efficiency in high-stakes manufacturing environments.

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Common Interview Questions for Founding Tooling Engineer, Special Projects Division
Can you describe your experience with tooling design for large-scale manufacturing?

Certainly! When answering this question, focus on specific examples of tooling systems you have designed. Discuss the challenges you faced and how you ensured quality and efficiency in the manufacturing process, highlighting any relevant software tools you employed and the impact of your work.

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How do you approach collaborating with cross-functional teams?

The key here is to emphasize your communication and teamwork skills. Share examples of successful collaboration where you worked with different departments. Detail how you facilitated information sharing and problem-solving to achieve common goals effectively, ensuring alignment across functions.

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What design software are you most proficient in, and how have you used it in previous projects?

When discussing your proficiency, provide specific details about the software you've used, such as SolidWorks or ANSYS. Explain how you've leveraged these tools in your past projects to design tooling systems, validate their functionality, and optimize their performance.

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How do you handle rapidly changing priorities in a fast-paced environment?

To showcase your adaptability, share concrete examples of how you've prioritized tasks and managed time effectively in dynamic situations. Discuss specific techniques you use to stay organized and responsive, ensuring that critical deadlines are met without compromising quality.

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What is your experience with improving tooling systems based on production feedback?

Reflect on your hands-on experience with tooling systems and highlight instances where you implemented feedback to enhance efficiency or resolve production issues. Detail the feedback processes you utilized and the outcomes of your improvements, stressing your commitment to continuous enhancement.

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Describe a challenging project involving tooling design and how you overcame obstacles.

Think of a real challenge you've faced in tooling design and narrate the story, emphasizing the specific obstacles, your problem-solving strategies, and the successful results of your efforts. This demonstrates resilience and innovation in your work.

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What techniques do you use for material selection in tooling design?

Discuss your approach to material selection by covering factors like load requirements, temperature resistance, and fabrication methods. Mention any past experience where your selection improved the performance or longevity of the tooling in manufacture.

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How do you ensure tooling systems remain meet quality standards?

Talk about your quality assurance processes, including testing and validation protocols. Mention any specific methodologies you employ to ensure that tooling systems align with industry standards and meet rigorous performance criteria.

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What motivates you in your work as a tooling engineer?

Speak to your passion for engineering, innovation, and the opportunity to contribute to significant projects within aerospace and defense. Share what excites you about tooling engineering and how it aligns with your career goals.

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Can you explain how you validate tooling designs under real-world conditions?

When addressing this question, describe your process for conducting Finite Element Analysis (FEA) and static analysis. Mention how these methodologies help ensure that your tooling designs will perform effectively in manufacturing environments with varying conditions.

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EMPLOYMENT TYPE
Full-time, on-site
DATE POSTED
April 4, 2025

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