Precision Tool Maker & Machinist (CNC/Fixtures)

Rotating Machinery Services, Inc.; Chicopee (MA); On-site; USD 65,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

Rotating Machinery Services, Inc. in Chicopee, MA is seeking a Tool Maker/Machinist to manufacture, modify, and maintain precision tooling, fixtures, gauges, and special tooling used in CNC operations.

You will read drawings, apply GD&T, and ensure tooling accuracy for production and quality control. The ideal candidate has 5+ years in tooling, strong manual/CNC machining skills, and experience with tight tolerances.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Trade school, vocational training, or technical certification preferred.
• Minimum of 5 years experience as a Tool Maker or skilled Machinist with tooling responsibilities.
• Demonstrated experience working to tight tolerances of ±0.0001 inches or better.

Responsibilities

• Manufacture, and modify fixtures, gauges, and special tooling.
• Machine tooling components using manual and/or CNC mills, lathes, grinders, and EDM equipment as applicable.
• Repair and improve existing tooling to restore dimensional accuracy and functionality.
• Support production and first-article jobs requiring custom or one-off tooling solutions.
• Interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, sketches, and GD&T requirements.
• Select appropriate materials, tooling, speeds, and feeds.
• Perform precision fitting, hand work, grinding, and finishing operations.
• Collaborate with Manufacturing Engineering, Programming, Quality, and Production teams to resolve tooling-related issues.
• Inspect tooling using precision measuring instruments and verify conformance to design requirements.
• Maintain tooling documentation and revision control as required.
• Follow all safety procedures, PPE requirements, and 5S standards.

Skills

Reading engineering drawings

GD&T interpretation

Manual machining

Problem solving

Teamwork

Communication

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Trade school/technical certification

Tools

CNC milling

CNC turning

EDM equipment

Precision measuring tools

Job description

RMS is seeking a Tool Maker / Toolmaker Machinist is responsible for manufacturing, modifying, repairing, and maintaining precision tooling, fixtures, gauges, and special equipment used in CNC machining and assembly operations. This position supports production and quality control activities by ensuring tooling accuracy, reliability, safety, and compliance with quality standards.

Primary Role Responsibilities

• Manufacture, and modify fixtures, gauges, and special tooling.
• Machine tooling components using manual and/or CNC mills, lathes, grinders, and EDM equipment as applicable.
• Repair and improve existing tooling to restore dimensional accuracy and functionality.
• Support production and first-article jobs requiring custom or one-off tooling solutions.
• Interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, sketches, and GD&T requirements.
• Select appropriate materials, tooling, speeds, and feeds.
• Perform precision fitting, hand work, grinding, and finishing operations.
• Collaborate with Manufacturing Engineering, Programming, Quality, and Production teams to resolve tooling-related issues.
• Inspect tooling using precision measuring instruments and verify conformance to design requirements.
• Maintain tooling documentation and revision control as required.
• Follow all safety procedures, PPE requirements, and 5S standards.

Required Experience & Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Trade school, vocational training, or technical certification preferred.
• Minimum of 5 years experience as a Tool Maker or skilled Machinist with tooling responsibilities.
• Demonstrated experience working to tight tolerances of ±0.0001 inches or better.

Required Skills and Competencies

• Proficiency in manual machining operations.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and GD&T.
• Strong knowledge of machining methods, tooling, materials, and fixturing principles.
• Experience using precision measuring and inspection instruments.
• Strong problem solving and troubleshooting skills.
• Effective communication and teamwork abilities.

Preferred Skills and Experience

• CNC machining and basic programming or program editing experience.
• Fixture or tooling design experience using 2D and/or 3D CAD.
• Experience supporting turbine, aerospace, or industrial manufacturing environments.
• Knowledge of lean manufacturing or continuous improvement practices.

Physical Demands

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds with or without assistance.
• Frequent use of hands for precision work, tools, and measuring devices.
• Manufacturing shop environment with exposure to machine noise, cutting fluids, oils, and metal chips.
• Personal protective equipment required including safety glasses, hearing protection, and steel-toe footwear.

Other Duties

• Performs other related duties as assigned to support business needs.

WHAT WE OFFER

• Competitive Pay
• Paid Time Off
• Medical / Dental / Vision
• 401k
• Employee Incentive Programs
• Employee Reimbursement Programs
• Tool, Shoe, and Safety Glasses reimbursement
• Uniform Service

Come Join Rotating Machinery Services Inc. and watch your Career go TURBO! Visit www.rotatingmachinery.com to learn more about who we are and what we do.

Rotating Machinery Services (RMS Inc.) was established in 1998 with the vision to reinvent the concept of an aftermarket turbomachinery business. The goal was to provide turbomachinery operators with unparalleled service based on established relationships, solid engineering, and technical expertise—all backed by responsiveness in competitive prices and lead times. RMS’ commitment to quality penetrates every aspect of the organization and in the guiding force for all decision making. With an equal blend of cutting-edge technology, engineering experience, and the work of skilled crafts people, RMS continuously delivers the best possible results to customers. RMS is a nimble organization with a collaborative culture of individuals who come to work every day with a desire to improve upon their craft and further the rotating machinery industry.

RMS Inc. provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.