A Tool and Die Maker builds the tools and dies used to make a variety of products and appliances. Works with mechanical engineers to build and assemble parts according to blueprints.
$35.00-$40.00 per hour, based on experience and technical skill level
Employment Type:
Full-Time | Direct Hire |
Onsite Industry:
Precision Metal Stamping and Manufacturing Position Summary We are seeking experienced Tool & Die Makers to build, repair, maintain, troubleshoot, and improve progressive and compound stamping dies used in precision metal-stamping production. Candidates must have a strong metal-stamping background and hands-on experience with progressive stamping dies. General machining, mold-making, or maintenance experience alone will not meet the requirements of this position. The ideal candidate can independently diagnose die and part-quality problems, complete precision repairs, manufacture replacement components, and return tooling to production safely and efficiently. Essential Duties and Responsibilities Build, assemble, repair, maintain, troubleshoot, and modify progressive and compound stamping dies. Perform scheduled preventive maintenance based on production quantities, die condition, and maintenance history. Respond to tooling breakdowns and provide timely production support.
Diagnose die problems involving:
Misfeeds and stock-alignment issues Broken, chipped, or worn punches Damaged inserts and die sections Excessive burrs Incorrect bends or forms Dimensional variations Sensor and timing problems Material-feed concerns Excessive scrap or repeated part defects Disassemble dies and inspect punches, inserts, forms, retainers, pilots, springs, lifters, stripper plates, sensors, and related components. Repair or replace worn and damaged tooling components. Manufacture replacement punches, inserts, forms, details, fixtures, and die components. Sharpen punches and die sections while maintaining the required clearances and dimensions. Fit, align, assemble, and spot tooling components. Perform die tryouts and make adjustments to achieve acceptable part quality and production performance. Support new-tool launches, engineering changes, die transfers, and production runoffs. Review blueprints, strip layouts, die designs, engineering drawings, specifications, tolerances, and GD&T. Verify tooling and parts using micrometers, calipers, indicators, height gauges, gauge blocks, optical comparators, and other inspection equipment. Operate manual mills, lathes, surface grinders, drill presses, saws, and other toolroom machinery. Operate CNC or EDM equipment when qualified and required. Perform precision grinding, drilling, milling, turning, polishing, stoning, fitting, and bench work. Work with tool steels, carbide components, heat-treated materials, and other tooling materials. Troubleshoot tooling issues with Production, Engineering, Quality, Maintenance, and other toolroom employees. Complete die-repair, preventive-maintenance, modification, and downtime documentation. Recommend tooling improvements that increase die life, improve part quality, reduce scrap, and minimize downtime. Maintain an organized supply of tools, components, fixtures, and materials. Follow lockout/tagout, machine-guarding, lifting, and personal protective equipment requirements. Maintain a clean, organized, and safe toolroom. Perform additional tool-and-die responsibilities as assigned. Required Qualifications Metal-stamping experience is required. Progressive stamping die experience is required. Candidates without a stamping background will not be considered. Minimum of five years of hands-on tool-and-die experience is strongly preferred. Experience repairing and maintaining progressive and compound dies. Ability to independently diagnose tooling and stamped-part problems. Advanced ability to read blueprints, strip layouts, engineering drawings, tolerances, and GD&T. Experience operating manual mills, lathes, surface grinders, drill presses, and related toolroom equipment. Proficiency with micrometers, calipers, indicators, height gauges, gauge blocks, and other precision measuring instruments. Knowledge of punches, dies, inserts, forms, pilots, springs, retainers, stripper systems, sensors, and material-feed systems. Knowledge of die clearances, cutting conditions, forming operations, and precision fitting. Understanding of tool steels, carbide, heat treatment, and tooling-material characteristics. Ability to work to close tolerances. Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills. Ability to work independently while collaborating with Production, Quality, Engineering, and other toolroom personnel. Dependable attendance and punctuality. Ability to work the full first-shift schedule from 5:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Availability to work overtime when production needs require it. Preferred Qualifications Journeyman Tool and Die Maker certification. Completion of a recognized tool-and-die apprenticeship program. Experience in a high-volume precision metal-stamping operation. Experience with new progressive-die construction, development, tryout, and launch. Experience with CNC machining, wire EDM, sinker EDM, welding, or CAD/CAM software. Experience troubleshooting automated press lines, coil-feed systems, sensors, and die-protection equipment. Lean Manufacturing, 5S, root-cause analysis, or continuous-improvement experience. Skills and Competencies Progressive and compound stamping dies Die repair and preventive maintenance Metal-stamping troubleshooting New-die construction and tryout Blueprint and strip-layout interpretation Precision machining and grinding Toolroom equipment operation Precision measurement and inspection Root-cause analysis Close-tolerance manufacturing Production support Safety and quality compliance Physical Requirements Ability to stand and walk for extended periods. Ability to bend, kneel, crouch, twist, reach, and perform detailed bench work. Ability to lift, carry, push, or pull tooling components weighing up to 50 pounds; heavier components may require team lifting or mechanical assistance. Ability to safely work around presses, grinders, mills, lathes, cranes, and moving machinery. Ability to visually inspect fine tooling details and accurately read measuring instruments. Ability to work around industrial noise, oils, coolants, metal chips, dust, and varying shop temperatures. Ability to wear all required personal protective equipment, including safety glasses, hearing protection, and safety shoes.
Pay:
$35.00 - $40.00 per hour
Benefits:
401(k) Dental insurance Health insurance Life insurance Paid time off Vision insurance
