Tool and Die Maker

Summary

As a member of the Tool and Die Department the Tool and Die Maker is responsible for building, repairing, and maintaining precision tools, dies, jigs, and fixtures of various application. This role requires expertise in machining and precision measurement techniques to ensure tooling meets exact specifications. The position supports new product and continuous improvement initiatives, collaborates with engineering teams, and ensures compliance with safety and quality standards.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

This list of functions and responsibilities is not all inclusive and may be expanded to include other duties and responsibilities, as management may deem necessary from time to time.

1. Read and interpret blueprints, working from verbal or written instructions, or from the part to be copied or fitted.
2. Plan setup and operation of all types of machine shop tools, considering types of material, tolerances, types of cutting tools, coolants, lubricants, and machine tool feeds and speeds.
3. Establish inspection specifications and perform quality checks before, during, and after machining using precision measuring and gauging tools.
4. Perform precise hand-finishing operations required to produce and repair tooling. Utilize hand tools such as files, deburring and polishing instruments to achieve appropriate fitment, finishes and geometries. 
5. Fit and assemble jigs, fixtures, tools, and dies with precision to ensure proper alignment and functionality. Diagnose and troubleshoot issues during testing, identify root causes of die-related problems, and implement corrective actions to restore performance and maintain production standards
6. Complete quality documentation for parts produced.
7. Assist maintenance department in machine repair as needed.
8. Work with product designers and engineers, giving feedback on tooling and manufacturing capabilities for new products. Help with prototype builds and provide feedback. 
9. Support continuous improvement by identifying issues with existing tool and processes and recommending solutions to enhance reliability and reduce downtime.
10. Set up and operate manual machines such as mills, lathes, and grinders for tool and die work. 
11. Operate forklift.
12. Set up and run special production jobs.
13. Perform other duties as assigned, including special projects.

Qualifications

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Education and Experience

1. Minimum of a high school education and such coursework as required by typical apprenticeship program
2. Required to read and write English, follow verbal instructions and use shop math (i.e. algebra, trig and geometry).
3. Prior computer experience preferred.
4. CAD Experience preferred but not required (AutoDesk Autocad, Inventor)
5. Accurite Controller Experience preferred but not required. 
6. ERP experience preferred (Epicor)

Job Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

1. Completion of formal apprenticeship program or completion of equivalent training and on-the-job experience to the satisfaction of recognized Journeyman standards (Preferred not required)
2. Requires a very high degree of precision and control in work where damage could be high and where muscular control and delicate touch are required.
3. High degree of attention and care required to prevent injury to self and others when operating machine tools.
4. Ability to read blueprints and follow detailed instructions.
5. Ability to use precise measuring devices incidental to operations such as calipers, micrometers, and optical comparator.
6. Ability to operate a forklift.
7. Ability to work independently and prioritize work.

Physical Demands

The physical requirements outlined below are essential for successful job performance. While fulfilling job duties, employees frequently need to be on-site to manage projects. Additionally, employees must regularly engage in activities such as sitting, standing, walking, speaking, and listening. Occasionally, employees may need to bend, stoop, balance, and move within the facility. Specific vision abilities necessary for this role include close vision, distant vision, peripheral vision, and the ability to adjust focus. Furthermore, employees may occasionally lift and/or move objects weighing up to thirty pounds.