Tool Maker

Setting up, programming, and operating horizontal mills (including HMCs and boring mills) to design, build, fabricate, and repair high-precision manufacturing tools, dies, jigs, and fixtures.

• Machining & Tool Construction:
  Read and interpret complex blueprints, CAD models, and technical schematics to fabricate and repair precision tools.
• Machine Setup & Operation:
  Set up, align, and secure raw materials, fixtures, clamps, and tombstones on horizontal milling centers.
• Programming & Editing:
  Load, edit, and troubleshoot CNC programs (using G&M codes) and adjust tool offsets, feeds, and speeds to achieve exact tolerances.
• Quality Assurance:
  Conduct in-process and final inspections using precision measuring tools (e.g., micrometers, calipers, height gauges) to ensure tools meet exact specifications.
• Tool Maintenance:
  Monitor tool wear and breakages, repair existing production tools, and perform preventative maintenance on machine equipment.
• Collaboration:
  
  Partner with engineering and production teams to optimize tool designs, test newly built tools, and resolve fabrication issues.

• Education:
  
  High school diploma or GED; completion of a formal machinist apprenticeship or trade/technical school certification in tool & die is highly preferred.
• Experience:
  
  1 to 5+ years of hands-on experience setting up and operating CNC or manual horizontal milling machines.
• Technical
  
  Skills:
  
  Strong mathematical aptitude (geometry, trigonometry), blueprint reading, and a solid understanding of Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing