Precision Die Maintenance & CNC Programming Technician

Metalex; Libertyville (IL); On-site; USD 65,000 - 95,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

PTO

Long-term disability

Short-term disability

401k

Job summary

Metalex is seeking a Tool & Die Technician to join our production team. You’ll apply CNC and Wire EDM programming to maintain, repair, and improve tooling performance in a fast-paced environment.

You’ll lead safety procedures, read blueprints, set up grinders and mills, perform die repairs, and work with engineering on continuous improvement initiatives. Strong accuracy and English communication are required.

Qualifications

• 4+ years in Tool & Die or equivalent technical training/experience.
• CNC programming and Wire EDM experience required.
• Blueprint literacy and close-tolerance work.
• Strong troubleshooting and analytical thinking in manufacturing settings.
• Effective English communication, written and verbal.

Responsibilities

• Lead with safety: model PPE, LOTO, Hazard Communication, and Confined Space practices.
• Operate and set up toolroom equipment: grinders, mills, drill presses, and lathes.
• Own die repair, preventative maintenance, and on-the-spot troubleshooting.
• Program and run CNC and Wire EDM equipment to build/modify precision components.
• Machine die inserts and components to improve quality and uptime.
• Diagnose tooling/mold/equipment problems; implement durable corrective actions.
• Read and apply blueprints, drawings, and specifications.
• Measure to tight tolerances using micrometers, calipers, and precision gauges.
• Partner with engineering on tests and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Maintain thorough documentation of repairs and equipment issues.
• Train and support Tool & Die teammates as needed.
• Perform other assigned tasks to support production goals.

Job description

Make an impact from day one

Join a production team that values precision, speed, and safety. In this role, you’ll combine Tool & Die mastery with CNC and Wire EDM programming to maintain, repair, and elevate tooling performance in a fast-paced environment.

Core responsibilities

• Lead with safety: model and reinforce PPE, LOTO, Hazard Communication, and Confined Space practices.
• Operate and set up toolroom equipment: grinders, mills, drill presses, and lathes.
• Own die repair, preventative maintenance, and on-the-spot troubleshooting.
• Program and run CNC and Wire EDM equipment to build/modify precision components.
• Machine die inserts and components to improve quality and uptime.
• Diagnose tooling/mold/equipment problems; implement durable corrective actions.
• Read and apply blueprints, drawings, and specifications.
• Measure to tight tolerances using micrometers, calipers, and precision gauges.
• Partner with engineering on tests and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Maintain thorough documentation of repairs and equipment issues.
• Train and support Tool & Die teammates as needed.
• Perform other assigned tasks to support production goals.

Qualifications to succeed

• 4+ years in Tool & Die or equivalent technical training/experience.
• Required: CNC programming and Wire EDM experience.
• Comfortable with grinders, lathes, milling, drilling, tapping, and boring.
• Strong troubleshooting and analytical thinking in manufacturing settings.
• Capable of repairing/modifying dies, molds, jigs, fixtures, and gauges.
• Blueprint literacy and high comfort with close-tolerance work.
• Knowledgeable on cutting tools, feeds/speeds, and coolants.
• Understanding of press operations and production processes.
• Plus: familiarity with ISO 9001:2015 and sit-down forklift operation.
• Math strength: fractions, decimals, geometry, metric conversions, trigonometry.
• Effective English communication, written and verbal.

Physical demands

• Standing, walking, bending, kneeling, and climbing for the duration of the shift.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs.
• Operate safely within manufacturing and warehouse areas.

Compensation & benefits

Medical, dental, vision, PTO, LTD, STD, 401k.

Preferred Proficiencies

• GD&T
• Metal Stamping & Forming (Progressive Die)
• CNC Machine Setup & Changeover
• Tool/Die/Mold Repair Skills
• Tool/Die/Mold Setup Experience
• Blueprint Reading

Equipment you’ll work with

• Boring Mill
• Manual Vertical Mill
• EDM Drilling Machine

Equal Opportunity Employer

Metalex LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer and considers all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status under applicable law.