Toolmaker

Position Summary

A growing manufacturing organization is seeking an experienced Tool & Die Maker to support the design, construction, maintenance, repair, and modification of production tooling and manufacturing equipment. This position plays a critical role in ensuring tooling performance, product quality, and manufacturing efficiency through precision craftsmanship, troubleshooting, and continuous improvement initiatives.

The ideal candidate will possess strong tooling construction experience, advanced machining skills, and expertise supporting automated manufacturing and assembly operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Build, modify, repair, and maintain production tooling, fixtures, dies, gauges, and manufacturing equipment.
• Troubleshoot tooling and equipment issues to minimize downtime and maintain production efficiency.
• Interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, CAD models, and technical specifications to support tooling construction and repairs.
• Perform precision machining operations using manual and CNC equipment.
• Fabricate, fit, assemble, and validate tooling components to meet dimensional and operational requirements.
• Support new tooling builds, engineering changes, tooling improvements, and launch activities.
• Conduct inspections and dimensional verification of tooling components using precision measuring equipment.
• Collaborate with engineering, quality, maintenance, and production teams to resolve tooling-related issues.
• Participate in root cause analysis and corrective action activities related to tooling performance and product quality.
• Assist with continuous improvement projects focused on safety, quality, productivity, and cost reduction.
• Maintain accurate records of tooling repairs, modifications, and construction activities.
• Follow all safety, quality, and workplace standards while maintaining a clean and organized work area.
• Communicate effectively with internal teams and external stakeholders as needed.
• Perform additional duties and special projects as assigned.

Qualifications

Required

• Completion of a Tool & Die Apprenticeship Program or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Associate degree in Tool & Die Technology, Manufacturing Technology, Machining, or a related technical field preferred.
• Minimum of 7 years of tooling, die making, fixture building, or related manufacturing experience.
• Experience supporting assembly tooling and automated manufacturing environments.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience building and developing new tooling systems, fixtures, or automation-related tooling.
• Experience with hemming dies, clinch tooling, or similar assembly tooling applications.
• Strong understanding of precision machining, tooling construction, and fabrication techniques.

Preferred

• Experience supporting robotic manufacturing systems and automated assembly processes.
• Experience with CNC machining equipment and programming concepts.
• Exposure to CAD/CAM software and tooling design principles.
• Manufacturing experience within automotive, industrial, or high-volume production environments.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Strong blueprint reading and technical drawing interpretation skills.
• Advanced machining skills including operation of mills, lathes, grinders, drills, and CNC equipment.
• Experience with welding processes including MIG, TIG, and stick welding.
• Proficiency with precision measuring instruments and dimensional inspection techniques.
• Knowledge of metrology principles and tooling validation methods.
• Experience working with master fixtures, checking fixtures, gauges, or other dimensional verification systems.
• Strong mathematical aptitude including geometry, trigonometry, ratios, and measurement calculations.
• Excellent troubleshooting, problem-solving, and analytical skills.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and manual dexterity.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities while maintaining attention to detail.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and within cross-functional teams.

Work Environment

• Manufacturing and tool room environment with exposure to machining equipment, fabrication processes, and production operations.
• Frequent use of machine tools, welding equipment, lifting devices, and precision measuring instruments.
• Personal protective equipment (PPE) required in designated work areas.
• Ability to stand, walk, bend, lift, and perform hands-on tooling work throughout the workday.