2nd Shift Tool Die Apprenticeship

Tool & Die Apprentice (Journeyman Track) – 2nd Shift

Location:  Vollrath Company, Kiel, WI

Pay: Apprentices will begin at 75% of the Journeyman Tool & Die Maker wage, currently $34.64 per hour. As apprentices gain experience and complete on-the-job training milestones, their hourly wage will increase according to the established apprenticeship progression schedule.

Training on 1st Shift | Full-Time

Are you mechanically inclined and looking to build a long-term career in a highly skilled trade? Join our team as a Tool & Die Apprentice and develop the hands-on expertise needed to become a Journeyman Toolmaker. This apprenticeship combines structured on-the-job training with technical instruction, allowing you to work alongside experienced professionals while mastering advanced manufacturing and machining techniques.

What You'll Do

As a Tool & Die Apprentice, you'll progressively develop the skills required to build, repair, troubleshoot, and improve tooling and manufacturing processes that keep production running efficiently.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist in the construction, repair, maintenance, and improvement of tooling, dies, gauges, and fixtures.


• Learn to operate and maintain a variety of tool room equipment, including:




• Lathes


• Mills


• Surface grinders


• CNC machinery


• Precision measuring instruments




• Read and interpret engineering drawings and customer prints.


• Perform machining operations and complex setups under the guidance of experienced toolmakers.


• Program and edit CNC equipment as needed.


• Weld and heat treat various metals and alloys.


• Troubleshoot tooling issues and participate in root cause investigations.


• Document repairs, improvements, and engineering changes.


• Maintain a strong commitment to workplace safety and product quality.

What We're Looking For

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED.


• Strong mechanical aptitude and interest in skilled trades.


• Basic computer skills.


• Ability to work safely in a manufacturing environment.


• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and perform physical job duties, including standing, climbing, and working around machinery.


• Willingness to complete all required classroom and on-the-job apprenticeship training.


• Successful completion of the apprenticeship aptitude testing process (70% cumulative average or higher).


• Successful interview with the apprenticeship selection panel.


• Must be in good standing with the company (for internal applicants).

What You'll Learn

Throughout the apprenticeship, you'll gain experience in:

• Precision machining


• CNC programming and operation


• Blueprint reading


• Metal properties and material selection


• Tool and die repair


• Welding and heat treatment processes


• Preventive maintenance


• Manufacturing problem-solving and continuous improvement

Work Environment

• Fast-paced manufacturing facility.


• Exposure to industrial machinery, moving equipment, and production environments.


• Required use of personal protective equipment (PPE), including safety glasses, hearing protection, and gloves.

Why Join Us?

This apprenticeship provides a clear pathway toward becoming a highly skilled Journeyman Toolmaker while building a rewarding career in advanced manufacturing. You'll receive hands-on mentorship, technical training, and the opportunity to contribute to the success of a world-class production operation.

Shift: 2nd Shift (Will train during the entire apprenticeship on 1^st shift)

Paid Apprenticeship Training: As part of our apprenticeship program, all required classroom instruction and training are fully paid for by the company. We invest in your development by covering the cost of your education while you gain valuable hands-on experience on the job.

Shift Possibilities: Upon successful completion of the apprenticeship and attainment of Journeyman status, employees may have the opportunity to transfer to other shifts as openings become available. While shift placement is based on business needs, this provides additional long-term career flexibility within the organization.

Apply today and start building a career where craftsmanship, precision, and continuous learning come together.