Tool and Die Maker

Wagner; Milwaukee (WI); On-site; USD 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

Wagner is seeking a Tool and Die Maker to join their team in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. The role involves building, repairing, and maintaining precision tools, ensuring quality standards and collaborating with engineering teams. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in machining and precision measurement techniques.

Responsibilities include reading blueprints, performing quality inspections, and supporting new product initiatives. A high school diploma, apprenticeship experience, and ability to operate forklifts are essential.

Qualifications

• Minimum of a high school diploma and coursework required by a typical apprenticeship program.
• Ability to read and write English, follow verbal instructions, and use shop math.
• Prior computer experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Read and interpret blueprints and instructions.
• Establish inspection specifications and perform quality checks.
• Fit and assemble jigs, fixtures, tools, and dies with precision.

Skills

Machining

Precision measurement techniques

Blueprint reading

Forklift operation

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Apprenticeship program

Tools

AutoCAD

ERP software (Epicor)

Job description

Summary

As a member of the Tool and Die Department the Tool and Die Maker is responsible for building, repairing, and maintaining precision tools, dies, jigs, and fixtures of various application. This role requires expertise in machining and precision measurement techniques to ensure tooling meets exact specifications. The position supports new product and continuous improvement initiatives, collaborates with engineering teams, and ensures compliance with safety and quality standards.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Read and interpret blueprints, working from verbal or written instructions or from the part to be copied or fitted.
• Plan setup and operation of all types of machine shop tools, considering material, tolerances, cutting tools, coolants, lubricants, and machine tool feeds and speeds.
• Establish inspection specifications and perform quality checks before, during, and after machining using precision measuring and gauging tools.
• Perform precise hand‑finishing operations required to produce and repair tooling, using files, deburring and polishing instruments to achieve appropriate fitment, finishes, and geometries.
• Fit and assemble jigs, fixtures, tools, and dies with precision to ensure proper alignment and functionality. Diagnose and troubleshoot issues during testing, identify root causes of die‑related problems, and implement corrective actions to restore performance and maintain production standards.
• Complete quality documentation for parts produced.
• Assist maintenance department in machine repair as needed.
• Work with product designers and engineers, giving feedback on tooling and manufacturing capabilities for new products. Help with prototype builds and provide feedback.
• Support continuous improvement by identifying issues with existing tools and processes and recommending solutions to enhance reliability and reduce downtime.
• Set up and operate manual machines such as mills, lathes, and grinders for tool and die work.
• Operate forklift.
• Set up and run special production jobs.
• Perform other duties as assigned, including special projects.

Qualifications

• Minimum of a high school diploma and coursework required by a typical apprenticeship program.
• Ability to read and write English, follow verbal instructions, and use shop math (algebra, trigonometry, geometry).
• Prior computer experience preferred.
• CAD experience (AutoDesk AutoCAD, Inventor) preferred but not required.
• Accurite Controller experience preferred but not required.
• ERP experience (Epicor) preferred.

Job Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Completion of a formal apprenticeship program or equivalent training and on‑the‑job experience to the satisfaction of recognized Journeyman standards (preferred, not required).
• Very high degree of precision and control required; delicate touch where damage could be high.
• High attention and care to prevent injury to self and others when operating machine tools.
• Ability to read blueprints and follow detailed instructions.
• Ability to use precise measuring devices such as calipers, micrometers, and optical comparators.
• Ability to operate a forklift.
• Ability to work independently and prioritize work.

Physical Demands

The job requires frequent on‑site project management and daily activities that include sitting, standing, walking, speaking, and listening. Occasionally, employees may need to bend, stoop, balance, and move within the facility. Specific vision requirements include close, distant, and peripheral vision and the ability to adjust focus. Employees may occasionally lift and/or move objects weighing up to thirty pounds.