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.
1st Shift 6am-6pm Monday-Friday Position Summary Die Shop personnel prepare, repair, clean, polish, and modify steel tooling to ensure aluminum profiles meet precise tolerances during press runs.
Key Responsibilities Die Correction & Repair:
Inspect, file, polish, and correct metal flow on extrusion dies using hand tools, grinders, and precision equipment to fix surface defects or dimensional issues.
Cleaning & Caustic Etching:
Safely manage dies through caustic soda wash tanks to dissolve leftover aluminum without damaging the steel tooling.
Tooling Setup & Breakdown:
Assemble die stacks (dies, bolsters, support tooling) for upcoming production runs and disassemble used sets returning from the press line.
Pre-Heating Management:
Operate die ovens to heat tooling to specified extrusion temperatures before loading into the press.
Quality Assurance:
Use calipers, micrometers, and protractors to verify die dimensions against engineering blueprints and shop travelers.
Inventory Control:
Track die history, wear patterns, and storage locations to maintain tooling readiness and log production data.
Requirements & Qualifications Experience:
1-3+ years in a tool/die shop, machining environment, or heavy manufacturing (aluminum extrusion experience preferred).
Technical Skills:
Ability to read blueprints/schematics and use precision measurement instruments (micrometers, calipers, dial indicators).
Physical Demands:
Capacity to lift up to 50 lbs regularly, perform overhead crane/hoist operations, and stand for extended periods in a hot plant setting.
Safety & PPE:
Adherence to strict OSHA guidelines, including mandatory steel-toe boots, eye protection, ear protection, and chemical PPE for caustic handling.
