Tool & Die Maker

Northwest Stamping, Inc., is a global supplier of technical-grade stampings and production volume machined parts to highly exacting industries. We work in partnership with our customers to deliver high-quality, low-cost components with a focus on reducing our customers’ assembly costs.
Our ability to maintain and grow our business is due in large part to the intelligence, creative energy, and commitment of our employees. Our machinists, press operators, purchasing, shipping and administration personnel – all of us – know that smart thinking based on sound business practices keeps our business growing.

1. Tool and Die Manufacturing:
   • Sets up and operates machine tools, such as lathes, drill presses, punch presses, milling machines, and grinders to machine parts to specifications.
   • Measures, marks, and scribes stock, such as tool steel and carbide, and works with detailed drawings to produce components.
   • Performs all phases of component manufacture and tool assembly and operates all tool room equipment.
   • Interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, and specifications to create tools, dies, and fixtures.
   • Perform precision machining to ensure parts meet exact specifications and tolerances.
2. Tool and Die Maintenance and Repair:
   • Inspect and troubleshoot existing tools and dies to identify issues and perform repairs or modifications as needed.
   • Performs press set up and First Article Inspection of newly-assembled tools.
   • Fits and installs precision components during tool assembly and verifies dimensions of parts and installation of components.
   • Sharpen and maintain cutting and shaping tools to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
   • Executes all phases of troubleshooting and tool repair; provides back-up die repair and maintenance as required to support press room schedule.
3. Quality Control:
   • Conduct thorough inspections of finished tools and dies to verify conformance to specifications.
   • Implement quality assurance processes to maintain high standards of accuracy and durability.
4. Collaboration and Communication:
   • Work closely with engineers and quality personnel to understand requirements and resolve issues.
   • Provide technical support and guidance to production teams regarding tooling and die-related matters.

• Proven experience as a Tool and Die Maker or similar role in a manufacturing environment, especially where manually milling was performed regularly. (5-10 years preferred)
• Proficiency in reading and interpreting technical drawings, blueprints, and other documents such as procedure manuals, operating and maintenance instructions, and other detailed drawings.
• Ability to work with mathematical concepts, such as probability, statistical inference, plane and solid geometry, and trigonometry.
• Ability to measure, mark, and scribe stock, such as tool steel and carbide, to detailed specifications.
• Strong knowledge of machining operations and precision measurement instruments.
• Excellent problem-solving abilities and attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• High school diploma or GED, or equivalent combination of education and experience. Certification or formal training in tool and die making is preferred.

• Tool and Die Makers need excellent hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills to operate precision tools and machinery, manipulate small components, and perform intricate tasks with precision. Precise manipulation of small tools and parts demands excellent hand skills and a steady hand.
• The job requires lifting heavy materials or tools weighing up to 50 pounds. Lifting materials over 50 pounds should be done with a team lift or using one of the lifting tools in the facility (e.g., crane).
• The employee is frequently required to stand, walk, sit, stoop, and kneel extended periods.
• Accurate close vision is crucial for reading technical drawings, measuring components, and ensuring the precision of their work.
• Tool and Die Makers must adhere to strict safety protocols and be aware of potential hazards, which may require physical agility and quick reactions to ensure their safety and that of their colleagues.
• The work environment is temperature controlled, but it is frequently noisy, requiring hearing protections while conducting certain tasks or working with certain areas of the facility. Eye protection is required, as this position involves working with tools that can project metal particulates.