Tool and Die Shop Manager
Listed on 2026-01-11
-
Manufacturing / Production
Manufacturing Engineer, CNC Machinist
Technical Recruiter @ Sterling Engineering | Master's in Business Administration
Location
:
Elk Grove Village, IL
Salary
: $90k-$125k/yr. based on experience
$90,000.00/yr - $/yr
This role manages all daily operations of the tool and die shop while remaining fully hands‑on in machining, troubleshooting, and toolmaking activities. The Tool and Die Shop Manager will supervise a small team of 10-20 employees (depending on temp staff), oversee workflow, ensure quality standards, and support continuous improvement across tooling processes. Responsibilities include designing and making tools for short‑run/prototype work, setting up and troubleshooting kick presses, 4‑slide, and punch press tooling, and performing precision grinding and machining.
Strong leadership, technical expertise, and a self‑directed work style are essential.
- Manage day‑to‑day operations of the tool and die shop, ensuring productivity, quality, and safety
- Supervise and develop a team of two toolroom employees
- Maintain a hands‑on role in machining, toolmaking, troubleshooting, and repairs
- Design and make tools primarily for short‑run/prototype work
- Set up and troubleshoot kick presses, 4‑slide, and punch press tooling
- Perform precision grinding and oversee grinding work performed by the team
- Set up and operate milling and grinding machines
- Interpret blueprints and engineering drawings to determine machining processes
- Inspect finished parts using precision measuring instruments
- Troubleshoot tooling issues and drive corrective actions to reduce downtime
- Collaborate with engineers to optimize tool designs, processes, and production efficiency
- Lead continuous improvement efforts within the toolroom
- Maintain an organized, safe, and well‑equipped tool and die department
- Proven experience as a Tool & Die Maker with strong hands‑on machining and grinding capabilities
- Prior experience managing or leading a toolroom or small technical team
- Proficiency with milling and grinding equipment
- Strong understanding of machining principles, materials, and tooling processes
- Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings (GD&T)
- Strong attention to detail, problem‑solving skills, and ability to work with minimal supervision
- Ability to lead by example and maintain a high‑performance culture
- Mid‑Senior level
- Full‑time
- Management
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