Aircraft Tool Maker, Bell Wichita FLRAA

We’re more than aviation experts, we’re pioneers. We challenge what’s possible. From breaking the sound barrier to advanced tiltrotor systems. Today, Bell is shaping the future of aviation through specialized engineering. And we want you.

We are developing the future of Army Aviation with the Bell Future Long-Range Assault Aircraft (FLRAA) part of the US Army’s Future Vertical Lift (FVL) modernization effort.

This position is onsite in Wichita, Kansas.

Aircraft Tool Maker, Bell Wichita FLRAA

Bell Textron is seeking a dedicated Tool Maker to support operations at our cutting-edge Wichita facility, where we’re building the fuselage for the MV-75, the U.S. Army’s Future Long Range Assault Aircraft (FLRAA). This role is essential to ensuring precision tooling and smooth production flow in a high-tech aerospace environment.

What you’ll be doing as an Aircraft Tool Maker:

·         Create, track and perform airframe fixture period inspections.

·         Repair and upgrade assembly fixtures by use of power tools, NC (Numerical Controlled) and conventional mill and lathes.

·         Create work aids to assist manufacturing.

·         Verify all tooling by using laser tracking standard practices.

·         Help troubleshoot production issues by doing in process verification of tooling and provide feedback.

·         Maintain crib inventory and manage tool distribution

·         Monitor calibration logs and tool serviceability

·         Collaborate with Process engineering and tool design team for concept of tooling.

What you need to be successful:

·         High school diploma or GED required

·         Minimum 5 years’ experience of tool making by use of hand tools, power tools, and measuring instruments such as laser trackers etc.

·         Experience operating a laser tracker and ability to integrate 3D models. Reliability in maintaining tool crib integrity and calibration schedules. Precision and strong attention to detail for maintaining tight tolerances and commitment to quality.  Spatial reasoning to visualize tool setups and machine interactions.

·         Troubleshooting and root cause analysis for tool-related production issues.

·         Effective communication to relay tool setup details across shifts and departments. Team collaboration to support cross-functional production goals. Customer-focused mindset to support internal stakeholders like assemblers and engineers.

·         Time management to prioritize tool setups and maintenance under tight schedules.

·         Basic computer literacy for logging tool data and accessing digital work instructions.

·         Adaptability to work with evolving tooling technologies and production demands. Initiative and curiosity to learn new tooling techniques and suggest improvements.

·         Commitment to safety.

·         Welding certification is a plus.  

Physical Requirements:

·         Ability to stand for extended periods during machining and tool setup activities

·         Capability to lift and carry tooling components weighing up to 50 lbs safely and repeatedly

·         Manual dexterity to handle precision instruments, small tools, and intricate setups

·         Strong visual acuity to read technical drawings and perform accurate inspections

·         Willingness to perform repetitive motions, including gripping, twisting, and reaching

·         Comfortable working in a machine shop environment, exposed to noise, lubricants, and metal particulates

NOTE: Bell/Textron Relocation Assistance is NOT available for this role.

What we offer you in return: 

·         Monday-Thursday 4x10 work schedule

·         80 hours of Personal Time Off (PTO)

·         120 hours Vacation time

·         12-13 paid holidays per year

·         6 weeks parental leave

·         Tuition reimbursement

·         Competitive salary

·         Comprehensive health insurance

·         Access to more than 11 Employee Resource Groups

·         And so much more 

NOTE: Bell/Textron Relocation Assistance is NOT available for this role.

It’s time to make your mark on the future of aviation. Join us on this mission, and let’s make history together.  

We are on a journey to amplify innovation, cultivate purpose and bridge experiences by fostering a culture that is driven by unique perspectives, voices and values.