Tool & Die Maker

Overview:

We are seeking an experienced Tool & Die Maker to join our established tool room team. We are a premier metal stamping manufacturer producing critical, high-quality components for the automotive and defense industries. This is a hands-on manual shop environment, and we rely on the traditional, highly skilled craftsmanship of our toolmakers to keep our operations running smoothly.

In this role, your primary focus will be on the expert repair, maintenance, and troubleshooting of our extensive library of tooling. You will be responsible for ensuring that our lineup of small to large progressive and transfer dies (ranging from 150-ton to 1500-ton) and our robotic welding fixtures are in tip-top shape. If you take pride in manual machining, precision form grinding, and keeping heavy machinery running flawlessly, you will be a perfect fit for this team.

A Journeyman card is not required—we care about your practical skills and ability to get the job done right.

Compensation

• $33 - $38 / hr
• Hourly pay based on experience
• Apprenticeship training available

Shifts

• 1st Shift: 7:00 AM - 3:30 PM
• 2nd Shift: 3:30 PM - 12:00 AM

Responsibilities:

• Die Maintenance & Repair – Perform preventative maintenance and high-precision repairs on small to large progressive and transfer tooling (150-ton to 1500-ton presses) to ensure zero-defect production.
• Manual Machining Expertise – Operate traditional manual equipment including mills, lathes, saws, and surface and Blanchard grinders. Sharpen and shim tooling components, with form grinding required.
• Floor Troubleshooting – Respond to the production floor to diagnose and troubleshoot tooling issues under pressure, minimizing machine downtime.
• Jig & Fixture Upkeep – Maintain, repair, and adjust robotic and spot welding fixtures to ensure accurate assemblies.
• Blueprint Reading & Fabrication – Read and interpret complex blueprints to fabricate replacement tooling components directly from prints.
• Quality & Safety Compliance – Work safely, wear required PPE, and report any unsafe conditions. Demonstrate awareness of and compliance with ISO 9001/14001 and IATF 16949 standards.

Requirements

Qualifications:

Required:

• Tooling Experience: Proven experience maintaining and repairing progressive and transfer dies in a high-volume manufacturing environment (minimum 1 year within the automotive industry preferred).
• Manual Machining Skills: High proficiency in operating manual mills, lathes, and grinders (surface/Blanchard).
• Blueprint Literacy: Strong ability to read blueprints and create or modify tooling components based on print specifications.
• Problem-Solving Mindset: Excellent troubleshooting skills with the ability to diagnose mechanical issues on the press.
• Communication: Strong oral and written communication skills.

Preferred:

• Welding Skills: Experience with welding is highly helpful for fixture repair.
• Technical Knowledge: Familiarity with In-Die-Sensors and AutoCAD is a strong plus.
• Language: Bilingual skills are preferred but not required.
• Certification: Certified Journeyman Tool Maker is welcome, but strictly not required.

Benefits

• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) retirement savings plan
• Paid time off, holidays, and personal leave