Tool & Die Machinist

The Tool & Die Machinist is responsible for independently building, repairing, troubleshooting, and maintaining precision tooling, dies, jigs, and fixtures to support safe, reliable, and efficient manufacturing operations. This role requires strong machining expertise, diagnostic capability, and hands-on technical execution to resolve tooling-related issues with minimal supervision.

Key Responsibilities

Tooling & Maintenance Support

· Independently troubleshoot, repair, and maintain dies, molds, fixtures, and precision tooling

· Diagnose tooling issues that impact production quality, uptime, and efficiency

· Perform preventive and corrective maintenance on tooling and related components

· Support tool tryouts, startups, and validation following repairs or modifications

· Maintain tooling to required tolerances and specifications

Machining & Fabrication

· Operate manual and CNC machinery including mills, lathes, grinders, and other equipment

· Set up, program (as applicable), and adjust machines to produce precision components

· Read and interpret blueprints, GD&T, and technical drawings

· Fabricate, modify, and rebuild tooling components to tight tolerances

· Inspect finished parts using precision measurement tools (micrometers, calipers, gauges, etc.)

Troubleshooting & Continuous Improvement

· Identify recurring tooling failures and participate in root cause analysis

· Implement corrective actions to improve tool life and reduce downtime

· Recommend improvements to tooling design, materials, and maintenance practices

· Support minor tooling upgrades, engineering changes, and process improvements

Hands-On Technical Work

· Perform hands-on diagnostics and repairs directly on tooling and equipment

· Disassemble, rebuild, and reassemble complex tooling assemblies

· Work with hardened steels, alloys, and other materials used in tooling

· Maintain clean, organized, and safe work areas in accordance with company standards

· Accurately document repairs, modifications, and maintenance activities

Collaboration & Communication

· Work closely with Maintenance, Engineering, Production, and Quality teams

· Communicate tooling issues, repair status, and improvement opportunities clearly

· Support external vendors, tool shops, and contractors as needed

· Participate in shift handoffs and production meetings to maintain continuity

Position Requirements

· High School Diploma or GED required; technical training or certification in machining, tool & die, or related field preferred

· 3–5 years of experience in tool and die, precision machining, or related manufacturing roles

· Strong ability to read and interpret blueprints, GD&T, and tooling drawings

· Proficiency with manual machining equipment (mill, lathe, grinder)

· Experience with CNC machining

· Working knowledge of tooling materials, heat treating, and wear characteristics

· Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills

· Experience using precision measuring instruments and quality standards

· Effective communication skills and ability to work across all levels of the organization

· Flexibility to support production schedules and project needs

Preferred Qualifications:

· Experience commissioning new equipment and supporting startup activities in a manufacturing environment.

· Experience working with outside vendors, system integrators, and equipment OEMs.

· Ability to document controls standards, procedures, and best practices.

· Ability to travel occasionally.

Other Job Responsibilities and Physical Requirements

· Must be able to lift 45 lbs. unassisted with or without reasonable accommodation, continuously and frequently overhead. Lifting of more than 45 lbs. requires team lifting of at least 2 people.

· Continuously and/or frequently required to lift, carry, push, or pull objects ranging from 45 lbs. to 80 lbs. Weights over 45 lbs. require teamwork of at least 2 people.

· Must be able to stand or walk for extended periods of time (8-12 hours daily).

· Must be able to move about the manufacturing floor safely and efficiently.

· Bending, kneeling, crouching, climbing stairs and/or ladders may be required for specific work tasks.

· Ability to perform tasks that require using hands, wrists, and fingers.

· Ability to work in loud, fast paced industrial environment.

· Manual dexterity and hand to eye coordination with hand/power tools.