Tool And Die Maker

Responsibilities: Build, repair, maintain, troubleshoot, and debug progressive dies and new tooling to meet customer specifications and tight tolerance requirements. Ensure accuracy and quality on all jobs, consistently meeting established standards and deadlines. Operate and properly use a variety of equipment, including hand tools, grinding machinery, milling machinery, drill presses, lathes, band saws, heat treating ovens, optical comparators, die hoists, and various measuring devices. Read and interpret blueprints to determine design intent, dimensions, tolerances, and required machining or assembly steps. Perform mathematical and geometric calculations to support layout, machining, fitting, and adjustment of tools and dies. Apply mechanical aptitude to diagnose issues, identify root causes, and implement effective corrective actions on tools and dies. Assist in press setup as required, ensuring dies are properly installed, aligned, and ready for production. Operate a computer-based die maintenance program and other required computer processes to track work, maintenance history, and tooling status. Utilize knowledge of CNC and wire EDM processes to support tool and die construction, modification, and repair. Possess and maintain the tools of the trade needed to perform daily tasks efficiently and safely. Follow all safety procedures and regulations, including proper use of personal protective equipment and safe operation of machinery. Maintain a tidy and clean workstation, contributing to a well-organized and efficient tool room and production area. Complete data entry activities in a timely and accurate manner, including job documentation, maintenance records, and production-related information. Cooperate and communicate effectively with other employees, including production, engineering, and maintenance teams, to satisfy job requirements and complete projects on time. Apply problem-solving and critical thinking skills to resolve tooling issues, improve processes, and support continuous improvement initiatives. Essential SkillsProven ability to build, repair, maintain, troubleshoot, and debug progressive dies and new tooling. Strong proficiency in reading and interpreting blueprints, including understanding dimensions, tolerances, and geometric features. Working knowledge of Statistical Process Control (S.P.C.) and its application to tooling and manufacturing processes. Hands-on experience operating hand tools, grinding machinery, milling machinery, drill presses, lathes, band saws, heat treating ovens, optical comparators, various measuring devices, and die hoists. Ability to perform mathematical and geometric functions relevant to tool and die work, including layout and precision measurement. Mechanical aptitude with the ability to analyze and resolve tooling and equipment issues. Ability to analyze blueprints and determine the materials, machines, and components required to make, modify, or repair tools and dies. Understanding of the operation of computer and tool room equipment, including die maintenance software and related systems. Knowledge of CNC and wire EDM processes and their use in tool and die manufacturing and repair. Strong problem-solving and critical thinking skills applied in a manufacturing environment. High attention to accuracy, detail, and due dates, with a focus on producing high-quality work. Good communication and team skills to coordinate work and complete projects on time. Journeyman Certificate with 4 years of apprenticeship and two years of experience. High school diploma or GED equivalent. Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and push/pull 100 to 2500 lbs using die carts.

Additional Skills & Qualifications: Journeyman certification and completion of 4 years of apprenticeship experience. At least two years of post-apprenticeship experience as a tool and die maker or in a closely related role. Experience with CNC machining and manual machining in a tool room environment. Experience with EDM and wire EDM processes for precision tooling work. Familiarity with die maintenance programs and computerized maintenance tracking systems. Demonstrated ability to maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area. Strong teamwork mindset with the ability to cooperate with colleagues across departments. Comfort working in a standard manufacturing environment with noise and some grinding dust.

Why Work Here? You will join a clean, well-organized manufacturing environment that invests in modern tooling and technology, allowing you to practice your trade at a high level. The role offers a substantial signing bonus, stable weekday hours, and the flexibility to start your shift earlier if that better suits your schedule. You will work alongside a collaborative team that values quality, safety, and craftsmanship, and you will have the opportunity to apply and grow your skills in precision tooling within a supportive, professional setting.

Work Environment: This position is based in a standard manufacturing environment that is clean and well maintained, with some noise and grinding dust typical of a tool and die shop. The regular schedule runs Monday through Friday from 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., with the option to work 6:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. if needed. The work involves lifting up to 50 lbs and pushing or pulling 100 to 2500 lbs using die carts. You will work with a variety of equipment, including manual machining tools, CNC machines, EDM equipment, heat treating ovens, and precision measuring devices. Protective shoes, safety glasses, a shop coat, and ear protection are required while working around loud noises and machinery, reflecting a strong emphasis on safety and proper attire.

Job Type & Location: This is a Permanent position based out of Lake Geneva, WI.