Composites Tooling Engineer in Bristol

Join iCOMAT – Revolutionising the Future of Lightweight Manufacturing! iCOMAT is an advanced manufacturing company with game‑changing technology that delivers the lightest structures possible for aerospace and automotive, at a scale, rate and cost efficiency that far exceeds existing composite production processes. We build and operate automated factories for composite materials, delivering components to Tier 1 and OEMs. The business has three main divisions focusing on the development of automated production machines, software design and production tools, and factory operations. This includes facilities in Gloucester UK (Factory 1), Bristol UK (Hardware R&D Centre) and Athens GR (Software R&D Centre). We are scaling rapidly and expanding into Europe and the US.

We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Composites Tooling Engineer to work alongside our dynamic team of Manufacturing Engineers. As a Composites Tooling Engineer at iCOMAT, you will play a crucial role in the design, development, and maintenance of tooling systems used in the production of composite materials. You will work closely with cross‑functional teams, including design, production, and quality assurance, to ensure that tooling solutions are optimized for performance, efficiency, and cost‑effectiveness.

What will you be doing?

• Create tooling models from component CAD to provide design for patterns, moulds, jigs/fixtures to optimise production times, yield and accuracy.
• Interrogate CAD models for undercuts and draft angles.
• Calculate thermal expansion rates and cure points of materials used to produce accurate components.
• Understand how to “pocket” tooling for airflow or weight saving without them collapsing under pressure.
• Capably explain and share design concepts with stakeholders to ensure requirements are covered.
• Create manufacturing drawings for in‑house tool manufacturing.
• Act as a subject‑matter expert on tooling strategy to support new product introduction activities.
• Work closely with tooling vendors to ensure the manufacturing tooling meets quality and performance standards.
• Provide assistance in the quotation process by providing material, labour (design time) costs to the sales manager (or PM).

What do we need from you?

• Relevant engineering qualifications (Bachelor’s or Master’s in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related field) or practical hands‑on experience.
• Understanding of composites; experience with carbon fibre, glass fibre and resins.
• Experience in composite manufacturing processes: lay‑up, curing and machining.
• Proficiency in CAD software (SolidWorks, CATIA, Siemens NX, etc.) and engineering analysis tools (ANSYS).
• Knowledge of patterns, epoxy tooling (for autoclave), press tooling and CNC fixtures.
• Strong problem‑solving skills and attention to detail, with a proactive approach to addressing issues.
• Strong project‑management skills; ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet deadlines.
• Effective communication skills; collaborative teamwork.
• Familiarity with CNC machining and advanced manufacturing technologies.
• Understanding of GD&T and its application in composite tooling.
• Minimum 3–5 years of experience in tooling design and development within a composite manufacturing environment.

Why iCOMAT?

• Competitive salary & benefits: comprehensive benefits package including private healthcare and pension scheme.
• Stock options: equity options to give employees a stake in the company’s success.
• Career‑growth opportunities: unmatched professional growth as we scale up.
• Innovation‑focused culture: inclusive, forward‑thinking work environment celebrated by Bloomberg as a “UK Startup to Watch.”
• Global impact: redefining lightweight structures for automotive, aerospace and space industries.

Apply now to learn more and join us on our exciting journey!