Toolmaker

Toolmaker

This role focuses on making, re-grinding, and repairing precision tooling, gauges, fixtures, jigs, and related equipment used throughout a manufacturing operation. You will interpret complex blueprints and engineering drawings, work closely with engineering, and independently select materials and methods to produce high-quality tools that support efficient production. The position requires strong manual machining skills, a deep understanding of the production system, and the ability to troubleshoot issues directly on the shop floor.

• Make and re-grind tooling to close tolerances for use on machines throughout the operation.
• Rework gauges and gauge plugs to ensure they meet required specifications and performance standards.
• Check vendor tooling on a limited basis to verify quality and suitability for production use.
• Repair fixtures, jigs, and tools using complex prints and engineering documentation.
• Interpret and work from detailed blueprints, complex prints, and engineering drawings to produce and repair tooling.
• Interface with engineering to clarify requirements, resolve design issues, and implement tooling improvements.
• Visit the shop floor regularly to troubleshoot tooling, fixture, and gauge issues on production equipment.
• Select appropriate materials, standards, and methods for tooling and repair work based on application requirements.
• Work independently to determine the best approach when specifications or design details are incomplete or unavailable.
• Train other team members in tooling practices and assign work as needed to support department objectives.
• Maintain a neat, clean, and organized work area to promote safety and efficiency.
• Uphold the highest degree of quality, safety, cost reduction, and customer service in all tooling activities.
• Perform manual machining operations using mills, lathes, and other manual machines to fabricate and repair tooling.
• Support quality assurance by ensuring all tooling and gauges meet dimensional and functional requirements.

• Strong toolmaking and tool and die experience with a focus on close-tolerance work.
• Proficiency in manual machining, including operation of mills, lathes, Bridgeport-style machines, and other manual equipment.
• Ability to perform tool and die repair, including fixtures, jigs, gauges, and gauge plugs.
• Advanced blueprint reading skills, including interpretation of complex prints and engineering drawings.
• Experience with machining and tooling for at least 5+ years.
• Solid understanding of tooling, dies, and related components used in production environments.
• Knowledge of the general production system and how tooling supports manufacturing processes.
• Ability to select appropriate materials, standards, and methods for tooling projects.
• Capability to work independently, including making decisions in the absence of complete specifications or design details.
• Strong troubleshooting skills for resolving tooling and fixture issues on the shop floor.
• Commitment to maintaining high standards of quality, safety, cost control, and customer service.
• Ability to train others and assign work within the tooling function.
• Competence in basic quality assurance practices related to tooling and gauges.

• Tool and Die Journeyman's card is a plus.
• Experience with journeyman-level tool and die work is highly desirable.
• Familiarity with Bridgeport mills and similar manual machining equipment.
• Experience supporting quality assurance through precise tooling and gauge work.
• Demonstrated ability to maintain a neat, clean, and organized work area.
• Comfort working with engineering teams and interpreting complex engineering documentation.
• Strong attention to detail and precision in all machining and tooling activities.

You will join an organization that offers a comprehensive benefits package and supports long-term financial and personal well-being. Employees have access to medical, dental, and vision coverage, as well as critical illness, accident, and hospital benefits. A 401(k) retirement plan with both pre-tax and post-tax contribution options supports your financial future. The company provides voluntary life and AD&D insurance for employees and dependents, along with short- and long-term disability coverage.

A Health Spending Account (HSA), transportation benefits, and an Employee Assistance Program further enhance overall support. Generous time off and leave options, including PTO, vacation, or sick leave, promote a healthy work-life balance.

The role is based in a very clean, temperature-controlled, and well-lit shop environment. You will have your own dedicated area equipped with mills, lathes, and other manual machines to support precision tooling and machining work. A personal workbench and laptop are located adjacent to the machine area, allowing you to review prints, interface with engineering, and document work efficiently. The facility emphasizes organization, cleanliness, and safety, creating a…