Tool Room Machinist

Job Title:
Tool Room Machinist / Tool & Die Maker 1st Shift
Job Description

This 1st shift Tool Room Machinist / Tool & Die Maker role focuses on full-cycle machining in a job shop environment, including G-code and M-code programming for manual and CNC mills and lathes, fixture design and repair, prototyping with engineering, and one-off tooling projects. You will recreate legacy parts with limited or no dimensions, support the machine shop in resolving part and specification issues, and build tooling and fixtures for the mold shop while working to tight tolerances in a hands-on, production-support setting.

• Program manual and CNC mills and lathes using G-code and M-code to produce tooling components and precision parts.

• Set up, operate, and adjust manual and CNC mills and lathes, including performing changeovers, tool adjustments, and offsets.

• Design, build, revise, and repair fixtures and tooling to support production and the mold shop.

• Collaborate with the engineering team to perform prototyping, including machining prototype parts and refining designs.

• Recreate older or legacy parts, sometimes with incomplete or missing dimensions, using design software and machining expertise.

• Support the machine shop by troubleshooting and fixing part and specification issues, such as broken or stuck screws and other mechanical problems.

• Perform fixture repairs and modifications based on production feedback and engineering requirements.

• Work to tight tolerances up to +/- 0.005 inches, ensuring high precision and consistency in all machined parts.

• Use precision measuring tools (PMTs) and inspection methods to verify part quality and conformance to specifications.

• Interpret and work from engineering drawings, CAD models, sketches, and written instructions.

• Operate safely in a tool room and foundry-adjacent environment, following all safety procedures and best practices.

• Lift and move materials and components up to 50 pounds as part of daily machining and setup activities.

• Contribute to one-off and custom projects, adapting to changing priorities and unique machining challenges.

• Participate in continuous improvement of tooling, fixtures, and machining processes to enhance quality and efficiency.

• 10+ years of full-cycle machinist experience with manual and CNC mills and lathes, preferably in a job shop environment.

• Proven experience performing setups, changeouts, tool adjustments, and offsets on manual and CNC equipment.

• Ability to use precision measuring tools (PMTs) to check and verify part quality.

• At least 5 years of experience in fixture design, tool repair, and tool making.

• Minimum 5 years of experience performing G-code and M-code programming.

• Minimum 5 years of experience programming mills and lathes for production and tooling work.

• At least 5 years of experience using CAD or CAM software such as AutoCAD, Mastercam, Solid Works, MATLAB, or similar tools.

• Demonstrated experience working with tight tolerances up to +/- 0.005 inches.

• Hands-on experience performing prototyping in collaboration with engineering and completing fixture repairs using machining methods.

• Ability to safely lift and handle up to 50 pounds on a regular basis.

• Experience working with Mastercam for programming and toolpath generation.

• Experience working with Solid Works for part and fixture modeling.

• Background in a union environment is helpful but not required.

• Comfort working on one-off and custom projects with limited documentation.

• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to troubleshoot machining and tooling issues.

• Consistent work history with stable tenure and strong attendance.

• Ability to work collaboratively and maintain positive working relationships across departments.