Tool & Die Team Leader

Description

Summary

Reporting to the Senior Manufacturing Engineer, the Tool and Die Team Leader is responsible for planning, designing, fabricating, and maintaining precision tools, dies, jigs, and fixtures used in various manufacturing processes. This includes the assembly and testing of complex tools and dies on manufacturing equipment, as well as initial run off of new implements in a production environment. The Tool and Die Team Leader will collaborate with engineering, production, and quality teams to ensure manufacturing goals are met efficiently and effectively. Additionally, this role will play a key role in continuous improvement initiatives of manufacturing processes by identifying opportunities to enhance tooling performance, reduce downtime and optimize the overall production processes.

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. Plan and source materials, die components and outside operations as needed.
2. Design and document new tools, dies, jigs and fixtures.  
3. Plan setups and operate all types of toolroom machinery, considering material type, tolerances, cutting tools, and proper machining parameters.
4. Perform inspections using precision measuring equipment to ensure tooling accuracy before, during, and after machining.
5. Conduct hand-finishing and fitting of jigs, fixtures, and dies; assemble and test tooling for production use.
6. Troubleshoot tool and die performance issues, identify root causes, and implement corrective actions.
7. Assist in machine repair activities and support Maintenance as needed.
8. Collaborate with product engineers to provide input on manufacturability and tool design for new products.
9. Program, set up, and operate CNC mills and lathes as required.
10. Read and interpret blueprints, working from verbal or written instructions, or from the part to be copied or fitted.
11. Lead the team in ensuring compliance with all safety procedures, housekeeping standards, and company policies.
12. Maintain detailed documentation of tooling maintenance and revisions.
13. Train and guide team members, ensuring knowledge sharing and skill development.
14. Support production needs in a timely and efficient manner.
15. Operate material handling equipment (e.g., forklifts) safely and effectively.
16. Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work environment.
17. Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

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. High school diploma or equivalent required.
2. Completion of a Tool and Die apprenticeship program preferred.
3. Minimum 2 years of tool and die experience or 5+ years in a precision machining environment.
4. Journeyman/Tool and Die Maker Certificate is preferred, but not required.
5. Experience in CNC programming and machining (mills and lathes) preferred.
6. Familiarity with CAD software (AutoCAD, Inventor, or similar) preferred.
7. Experience with ERP systems such as Epicor is a plus.

Job Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

1. Strong understanding of precision machining practices and toolroom safety.
2. Proficient in blueprint reading and GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing).
3. Skilled in the use of hand tools and precision measurement devices.
4. Knowledge of materials and heat treatment processes commonly used in tooling.
5. Ability to troubleshoot and solve tooling-related problems efficiently.
6. Effective time management, organizational skills, and the ability to handle multiple tasks.
7. Strong communication and leadership skills; able to guide and support other team members.
8. Ability to read and write in English
9. Proficient in basic shop math, including algebra, geometry, and trigonometry.
10. Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team-oriented environment.

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.