Tool Maker

Location: Columbia

JOB SUMMARY: We are seeking a highly skilled Tool Maker to fabricate, maintain, and repair precision tools, dies, fixtures, jigs, and gauges used in the production of aerospace components. The ideal candidate will have strong mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and experience working with tight tolerances and aerospace-grade materials. This role ensures tooling integrity, repeatability, and compliance with AS9100 and company quality standards.

Key Responsibilities:

• Fabricate, assemble, and maintain production tools, dies, jigs, and fixtures according to engineering drawings and specifications.
• Interpret blueprints, CAD drawings, and geometric tolerances (GD&T) to produce precise tooling.
• Perform precision machining, grinding, welding, and assembly operations on tooling components.
• Inspect tools using precision measuring instruments (micrometers, calipers, height gauges, CMM, etc.) to ensure compliance with specifications.
• Troubleshoot and repair worn or damaged tooling to minimize production downtime.
• Collaborate with engineers, quality inspectors, and production staff to improve tool design and functionality.
• Maintain detailed documentation of tooling specifications, maintenance schedules, and repair logs.
• Knowledge of setups and running of various manual and CNC machines (0-60" capacity lathe, mill, etc.).
• Follow all safety policies and procedures, including PPE usage and machine guarding.
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives to optimize tooling processes and manufacturing efficiency.
• Ensure tooling meets AS9100, customer, and internal quality standards.

REQUIRED SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• High school diploma or equivalent; technical certification or vocational training preferred.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience as a tool maker in precision manufacturing or aerospace environment.
• Strong knowledge of metallurgy, machining processes, and tooling materials.
• Proficient in manual and CNC machine operation (mills, lathes, grinders, etc.).
• Skilled in blueprint reading, GD&T interpretation, and precision measurement techniques.
• Excellent problem-solving, troubleshooting, and mechanical aptitude.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team, be open-minded and flexible with changing priorities.
• Strong organizational, documentation skills, and attention to detail.
• Experience with aerospace alloys such as aluminum, titanium, stainless steel, and Inconel.
• Familiarity with CAD/CAM software for tool design is preferred.
• Knowledge of welding, assembly, and fabrication processes (sheet metal, saw cutting, deburring).
• Experience in lean manufacturing or continuous improvement methodologies.
• Willingness to work overtime as needed.
• Demonstrate training ability and be able to support internal customer needs.
• Accurately read engineering prints
• Demonstrate commitment to quality, safety and communication and be a team player.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Primary duties will be on the shop floor, working in a manufacturing environment.
• Must be able to stand/sit for extended periods of time (up to 8 hours) while performing fine manual work.
• Good hand-eye coordination and manual dexterity in both hands.
• Must be able to lift up to 35 pounds unassisted, stand, squat, bend, twist, and reach often.
• Exposure to various temperatures, noise and vibration from power equipment, dust, and fumes.

BENEFITS

At Collective Manufacturing, we understand how important your benefits are to you and your family. We offer a full suite of benefits, including paid time off, medical, dental, vision, short and long-term disability coverage, accident insurance, critical illness insurance, hospital indemnity, basic and supplemental life insurance, employee assistance plan, retirement savings plan with competitive matches, and other developmental opportunities.

Collective Manufacturing Group LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We consider all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected status. Applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to complete the application process may contact Human Resources.

This position requires access to information subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). Employment is contingent upon the applicant being a "U.S. person" as defined by ITAR (22 CFR §120.15), which includes U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, refugees, or asylees, as required by U.S. export control laws.

Monday - Friday 7AM - 3:30PM, overtime including some weekends as business needs warrant.