Tool and Die Maker

gpac; Piscataway Township (NJ); On-site; USD 36,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

gpac is seeking an experienced Tool & Die Maker in New Jersey to join an established manufacturer. You will set up and operate lathes, mills, and grinders to produce precision components, fabricate and repair dies and tooling, and troubleshoot dimensional defects using precise inspection tools.

You will interpret drawings, develop accurate parts from samples, maintain die history, and assist with die installation while maintaining safety and organization in a fast-paced shop environment.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of Tool & Die Maker experience.
• Hands-ons experience operating manual lathes and milling machines.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, technical drawings, and machining specifications.
• Knowledge of geometric and trig calculations used in precision machining.
• Experience using precision inspection tools (micrometers, calipers, gauges).
• Familiarity with die maintenance, tooling fabrication, and fitting/repair techniques.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate manual lathes, milling machines, surface grinders, and other shop equipment to manufacture precision components.
• Fabricate, modify, and repair dies, tooling, jigs, fixtures, and machine parts to meet production requirements.
• Troubleshoot tooling problems, equipment issues, and dimensional defects, then determine corrective action.
• Interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, sketches, and sample parts to develop accurate components.
• Assemble, fit, grind, file, finish, and polish parts to achieve proper tolerances and functionality.
• Inspect dies and tooling for wear or damage, replacing or repairing components as needed.
• Maintain accurate documentation of tooling work, repairs, inspections, and die history.

Skills

Blueprint reading

Geometric calculations

Troubleshooting

Dimensional measurement

Quality tolerance

Team collaboration

Safety awareness

Education

Technical school / Apprenticeship

Tools

Manual lathe

Milling machine

Surface grinder

Micrometers

Calipers

Gauges

Job description

Build Precision. Solve Problems. Put Your Skills To Work.

Are you an experienced Tool & Die Maker who enjoys hands‑on machining, precision craftsmanship, and solving technical challenges? We're looking for a skilled professional to join an established manufacturer specializing in engineered products for industrial and manufacturing applications. In this role, you'll work with a variety of tooling, dies, fixtures, and machine components, using your machining expertise to produce, modify, troubleshoot, and maintain precision parts. This is an opportunity to apply your technical skills in a manufacturing environment where quality, accuracy, and dependable performance matter.

What You'll Do

• Set up and operate manual lathes, milling machines, surface grinders, and other shop equipment to manufacture precision components.
• Fabricate, modify, and repair dies, tooling, jigs, fixtures, and machine parts to meet production requirements.
• Troubleshoot tooling problems, equipment issues, and dimensional defects, then determine the appropriate corrective action.
• Interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, sketches, and sample parts to develop accurate components.
• Assemble, fit, grind, file, finish, and polish parts to achieve proper tolerances and functionality.
• Use precision measuring instruments, including micrometers, calipers, and gauges, to verify dimensions and finished work.
• Develop tooling from sketches or existing samples while considering the design and function of the completed assembly.
• Inspect dies and tooling for wear or damage, replacing or repairing components as needed.
• Maintain accurate documentation of tooling work, repairs, inspections, and die history.
• Assist with die installation and setup, providing technical guidance to production and setup personnel when necessary.
• Follow established safety procedures and maintain an organized, efficient work area.

What We're Looking For

• At least 3 years of professional Tool & Die Maker experience.
• Demonstrated hands‑on experience operating manual lathes and milling machines.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, technical drawings, and machining specifications.
• Working knowledge of geometric and trigonometric calculations used in precision machining.
• Experience using precision inspection tools such as micrometers, calipers, and gauges.
• Strong troubleshooting skills and the ability to work accurately within specified tolerances.
• Familiarity with die maintenance, tooling fabrication, component fitting, and repair techniques.
• Commitment to workplace safety and proper use of personal protective equipment.
• Ability to handle and position heavy tooling and machine components, with or without reasonable accommodation.

Education and Training:

Technical school, an apprenticeship, or relevant vocational training is beneficial.

Work Authorization Requirement:

Due to applicable ITAR and export-control requirements, candidates must be U.S. citizens or U.S. permanent residents and meet the applicable access requirements.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, age, color, sex (including pregnancy), religion, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, military status, genetic information, or any other status protected by applicable laws or regulations.