Tool and Die Maker

Tool And Die Maker

The Tool and Die Maker specializes in the skilled tasks of constructing, modifying, maintaining, calibrating, and repairing machine shop tools, dies, jigs, and fixtures. This role involves working with engineers and tool designers to develop and modify tools, and requires working from blueprints, specifications, and diagrams. The individual assesses complex specifications and applies knowledge of tool and die design and construction, shop mathematics, metal properties, and layout, machining, and assembly procedures to fabricate and repair metalworking dies, cutting tools, jigs and fixtures, gauges, and machinists' hand tools.

• Fabrication and Assembly:
  Fabricates and repairs metalworking dies, cutting tools, jigs, fixtures, gauges, and machinists' hand tools. This includes laying out metal stock, preparing and operating machine tools, and fitting and assembling parts.

• Planning and Preparation:
  Studies specifications (blueprints, sketches, models) to visualize the product, determine materials, and select machines. Computes dimensions, plans layout, and determines the assembly method and sequence of operations.

• Machining and Processing:
  Measures, marks, and scribes metal stock. Sets up and operates various machine tools, such as lathes, milling machines, shapers, and grinders, to machine parts. Lifts and secures machined parts for work.

• Finishing and Verification:
  Smoothes flat and contoured surfaces using scrapers, abrasive stones, and power grinders. Fits and assembles parts using hand tools. Verifies dimensions, alignments, and clearances using precision instruments, including dial indicators, gauge blocks, and micrometers.

• Specialized Tasks:
  Heat-treats tools or parts. May connect wiring and hydraulic lines for electrical and hydraulic components.

• Safety Compliance:
  Complies with all safety and work rules and regulations for the assigned area, following all required safety practices.

• Design and Consultation (Optional):
  May examine existing tools and recommend design modifications. May also develop specifications or draw/sketch designs for specialty tools from general descriptions.

• Production Support:
  Troubleshoots and repairs dies and tooling on the production floor, often working with presses.

• Mobility:
  Ability to stand and walk for the duration of an 8- to 12-hour shift on concrete shop floors.

• Lifting and Positioning:
  Ability to lift and carry objects up to 50 lbs. Must be able to use hoists and cranes to position and secure heavy machined parts on worktables or surface plates.

• Dexterity and Precision:
  High level of manual dexterity for handling small components, scribing fine lines, and performing delicate assembly work.

• Agility:
  Frequent bending, squatting, reaching, and the ability to work at various heights to secure parts in vises, V-blocks, and angle plates.

• Visual Acuity:
  Excellent near-vision required for reading blueprints and using precision measuring tools.

• High School Diploma or GED

• Tool & Die State Apprenticeship Certificate or Minimum 5 Years Equivalent Experience

• Stamping Die and/or Injection Mold experience is a plus

• Proficiency in CNC equipment operation and programming (e.g., Proto Trak)