Apprentice Tool & Die Maker

Greenville Tool and Die C; Michigan; On-site; USD 19,000 - 28,000; Full time

Job summary

Greenville Tool and Die is offering a Tool and Die Maker Apprentice program in Michigan. The role provides hands-on experience with tooling, dies, fixtures, and precision machining under journeyman supervision.

Apprentices will learn to read blueprints and GD&T while completing structured training and evaluations. Initial 1st shift experience lasts 1–2 years, followed by a transfer to night shift for 6.5 years or as negotiated.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED is required.
• Enrollment in or willingness to enter a state-certified Tool and Die Apprenticeship Program.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and interest in precision machining and toolmaking.
• Ability to follow directions, work safely, and demonstrate attention to detail.
• Basic knowledge of hand tools, measuring instruments, and shop math is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Assist in the assembly, disassembly, repair, and maintenance of progressive, line, and transfer dies.
• Operate basic machining equipment such as mills, lathes, surface grinders, and drill presses under supervision.
• Learn to read and interpret blueprints, CAD drawings, and GD&T specifications.
• Perform tasks such as deburring, polishing, fitting, and stoning die components.
• Support die tryouts, spotting, and press adjustments as directed by journeyman toolmakers.
• Follow safety procedures and maintain a clean and organized work area.
• Record training hours and tasks completed as part of apprenticeship documentation.
• Attend and successfully complete all required technical instruction and evaluations.
• Communicate effectively with mentors and ask questions to support skill development.

Skills

Mechanical aptitude

Blueprint reading

Attention to detail

Safety consciousness

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

CAD interpretation

Hand tools

Measuring instruments

Job description

Job Description

Job Title: Tool and Die Maker Apprentice

Job Summary

The Tool and Die Maker Apprentice assists in the construction, maintenance, and repair of stamping dies, fixtures, and other precision tooling while completing a structured apprenticeship program. Under the supervision of experienced journeyman toolmakers, the apprentice gains hands‑on experience and classroom training to develop the skills required to become a certified Tool and Die Maker. Apprentices will start on 1st shift for 1-2 years to gain experience and then transfer to night shift for 6.5 year period or otherwise negotiated.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist in the assembly, disassembly, repair, and maintenance of progressive, line, and transfer dies.
• Operate basic machining equipment such as mills, lathes, surface grinders, and drill presses under supervision.
• Learn to read and interpret blueprints, CAD drawings, and GD&T specifications.
• Perform tasks such as deburring, polishing, fitting, and stoning die components.
• Support die tryouts, spotting, and press adjustments as directed by journeyman toolmakers.
• Follow safety procedures and maintain a clean and organized work area.
• Record training hours and tasks completed as part of apprenticeship documentation.
• Attend and successfully complete all required technical instruction and evaluations.
• Communicate effectively with mentors and ask questions to support skill development.

Required Skills and Experience

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Enrollment in or willingness to enter a state‑certified Tool and Die Apprenticeship Program.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and interest in precision machining and toolmaking.
• Ability to follow directions, work safely, and demonstrate attention to detail.
• Basic knowledge of hand tools, measuring instruments, and shop math is preferred.
• Good attendance, work ethic, and willingness to learn from experienced tradespeople.

Physical demands:

• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and perform physical activities such as standing, bending, and kneeling.
• Must be comfortable working in a machine shop environment (noise, grease, metal shavings, etc.).
• Use of PPE (safety glasses, steel‑toe boots, gloves, hearing protection) required.

Work environment: Manufacturing environment. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly exposed to moving mechanical parts. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.

For employment at Greenville Tool and Die you must pass a pre‑employment drug screen and physical.