Tool And Die Apprentice​/Machinist

2nd Shift Tool & Die Apprentice / Machinist

This role is ideal for an experienced CNC machinist who wants to grow in a tool and die environment. You will work on 2nd shift, planning, laying out, and performing bench and machine operations to build, service, repair, and maintain tools, dies, and fixtures. The position involves operating CNC Haas Vertical Mills and a variety of manual equipment in a stamping and roll forming facility where dies can weigh up to 8,000 pounds.

You will support both existing production and a new CNC automated and robotic line, helping ensure high-quality parts are produced to tight tolerances.

Responsibilities

• Plan, lay out, and perform bench and machine operations to build, service, repair, and maintain tools, dies, and fixtures.
• Operate CNC Haas Vertical Mills and other CNC milling machinery, including setup, change outs, offsets, and routine operation.
• Use manual machining equipment such as surface grinders, milling machines, lathes, drill presses, belt sanders, saws, hoists, clamps, and measuring tools.
• Handle and work with large stamping and roll forming dies weighing up to 8,000 pounds using appropriate equipment and safe work practices.
• Read and interpret complex blueprints to verify parts, including prints with up to 100 dimensions that must be checked.
• Utilize precision measuring tools such as micrometers, calipers, and gauges to inspect parts and ensure adherence to tight tolerances up to +/- .005.
• Apply knowledge of G and M codes to change tooling, make offset adjustments, and optimize CNC programs for quality and efficiency.
• Support the installation and operation of new CNC automated and robotic lines featuring multiple CNC Haas Mills.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area in accordance with facility standards and safety procedures.
• Lift and move materials and tooling up to 50 pounds as needed to support machining and toolroom operations.

Essential Skills

• At least 5 years of CNC machinist experience working with mills and lathes.
• Demonstrated experience operating Haas Vertical Milling Centers.
• Minimum of 4 years of experience in setup, change outs, offsets, and operation of CNC milling machinery.
• Ability to proficiently read and interpret detailed blueprints to check parts, including prints with up to 100 dimensions.
• Strong proficiency using precision measurement tools such as micrometers, calipers, and gauges.
• Experience working with tight tolerances up to +/-.005 on production and tooling components.
• Solid understanding of G and M codes to change tooling and perform offset adjustments on CNC equipment.
• Ability to safely lift and handle up to 50 pounds in a manufacturing environment.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• 4 or more years of tool and die maker experience.
• Ability to lay out, build, service, and repair tools, dies, and fixtures.
• Journeyman card in tool and die or machining (preferred).
• Experience in roll forming operations and tooling (preferred).

Why Work Here?

You will join a long-established, stable organization that has operated for over 75 years without layoffs, offering a strong sense of job security. The company provides comprehensive benefits, including medical, dental, vision, short-term and long-term disability, life insurance, and a 401(k) plan. An onsite clinic is available to employees and their families when enrolled in the PPO plan, supporting convenient access to healthcare.

You can take advantage of a robust continuing education program with tuition reimbursement, including enhanced support for approved online programs, to grow your skills and advance your career. Paid time off accrues weekly starting in your first year, with tenure-based increases and additional PTO rewards for consistent attendance. The organization also offers shoe reimbursement, optional uniforms, and gym reimbursement, reflecting a commitment to employee comfort, safety, and wellness.

A sign-on bonus is available upon becoming a direct employee, further enhancing the overall value of this opportunity.

Work Environment

The role is based in a large, bright, clean, and well-organized manufacturing facility with a substantial maintenance and tool and die shop. Some areas, particularly those with stamping equipment, are loud, and appropriate hearing protection is used as needed. You will work 2nd shift, Monday through Thursday, from 3:30 p.m. to 2:00 a.m., providing a consistent four-day workweek. The environment includes stamping and roll forming operations, CNC Haas Vertical Mills, and a new CNC automated and robotic line, offering exposure to both traditional and modern manufacturing technologies.

Uniforms are provided if desired, supporting a practical and professional dress code suited to a hands-on industrial setting.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Middlebury, IN.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $24.00 - $34.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment.…