Tool and Die Maker

Accelera; Rocky Mount (NC); On-site; USD 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Accelera is seeking a skilled Tool and Die Maker to design, build, and maintain high-precision tooling such as injection molds, dies, and fixtures. You will set up and operate manual and CNC equipment, uphold tight tolerances, and support continuous improvement across the facility.

The role requires experience in a high-volume manufacturing environment with strong blueprint interpretation, tooling knowledge, and a collaborative mindset to improve production efficiency and quality.

Qualifications

• Possession of GED or high school diploma with at least 1 year of relevant training or experience.
• An Associate Degree in a related field is a plus.
• Completion of a State-Certified Journeyman program or a Tool and Die Apprenticeship is preferred.
• 3–5 years of practical experience as a Precision Machinist or Tool and Die Maker in high-volume manufacturing.

Responsibilities

• Ensure finished parts meet specifications by validating alignments, clearances, and dimensions with precision tools.
• Analyze blueprints, CAD/CAM files, and sketches to organize tool and die fabrication sequences.
• Operate and configure conventional and CNC machinery to shape components to exact standards.
• Calculate dimensions, shapes, and tolerances for assemblies based on technical requirements.
• Assess metal flow within dies and resolve tooling issues to maintain production.
• Inspect components for flaws using CMM and other measuring instruments.
• Perform routine preventative maintenance on machinery as scheduled.
• Cross-train across machines to support team versatility.
• Mentor and train team members as directed by management.
• Maintain a safe, 5S-compliant workspace and follow safety protocols.
• Complete additional duties as assigned by leadership.

Skills

Materials knowledge

Tooling craftsmanship

Machining setup & operation

Engineering math

Blueprints & drawings

Independent work

Troubleshooting

Organization & communication

Basic computer literacy

Education

GED/high school + 1 year training/experience

Associate degree in related field

Journeyman program or Tool and Die Apprenticeship

3–5 years precision machinist/tool and die experience

Tools

Surface grinders

Lathes

Milling machines

CNC equipment

CMM/advanced measuring tools

Job description

As a Tool and Die Maker, you will utilize engineering schematics, digital models, and technical data to construct, adjust, and maintain high-precision components such as injection molds, dies, fixtures, and specialized tooling. This position requires a combination of expert craftsmanship and modern manufacturing proficiency, involving the setup and operation of both manual and CNC equipment. You will play a vital role in maintaining tight tolerances to ensure production excellence, reduce downtime, and foster ongoing improvements across the facility.

Role Overview

As a Tool and Die Maker, you will utilize engineering schematics, digital models, and technical data to construct, adjust, and maintain high-precision components such as injection molds, dies, fixtures, and specialized tooling. This position requires a combination of expert craftsmanship and modern manufacturing proficiency, involving the setup and operation of both manual and CNC equipment. You will play a vital role in maintaining tight tolerances to ensure production excellence, reduce downtime, and foster ongoing improvements across the facility.

Core Responsibilities

• Ensure finished parts meet strict specifications by validating alignments, clearances, and dimensions using precision tools like micrometers, calipers, and dial indicators.
• Analyze intricate blueprints, CAD/CAM files, and technical sketches to organize operational sequences for tool and die fabrication.
• Operate and configure conventional and CNC machinery, including grinders, milling machines, and lathes, to shape components to exact standards.
• Calculate and visualize the necessary dimensions, shapes, and tolerances for assemblies based on provided technical requirements.
• Assess metal flow within dies, create tool layouts, and resolve tooling issues to keep production running smoothly.
• Enhance quality control by inspecting components for flaws and confirming precise measurements using CMM or advanced measuring instruments.
• Execute routine preventative maintenance tasks on machinery as scheduled.
• Participate in cross-training initiatives across various machines to support team versatility.
• Provide mentorship and training to fellow team members as directed by management.
• Maintain a safe and organized workspace by adhering to 5S standards and all established safety protocols.
• Complete additional tasks and duties as requested by leadership.

Education and Qualifications

• Possession of a GED or high school diploma, alongside at least one year of relevant training or experience.
• An Associate Degree in a related field is considered a plus.
• Completion of a State-Certified Journeyman program or a Tool and Die Apprenticeship is preferred.
• A minimum of 3 to 5 years of practical experience as a Precision Machinist or Tool and Die Maker within a high-volume manufacturing setting.

Required Skills and Knowledge

• Understanding of raw materials, manufacturing workflows, and quality assurance techniques to optimize production efficiency.
• Proficiency in the maintenance, design, and operation of various industrial tools and machines.
• Demonstrated ability to configure and run manual toolroom machinery, such as surface grinders, lathes, and mills.
• Competence in applied mathematics, including statistics, calculus, geometry, algebra, and arithmetic.
• Knowledge of design principles and technical drawing standards used to create precision blueprints and models.
• Capacity to work effectively both independently and as part of a collaborative team to meet production targets.
• Aptitude for troubleshooting complex issues by analyzing data to develop and execute effective solutions.
• Strong organizational, coordination, and communication abilities.
• Fundamental computer literacy.

Physical Demands

You must be capable of independently lifting, pushing, or pulling equipment and materials up to 50 pounds, with mechanical aid available for heavier items. The role requires standing and walking on concrete surfaces for shifts lasting 8 to 10 hours. Frequent physical movements such as kneeling, bending, twisting, and reaching are necessary to maintain machinery. You will need exceptional fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination to manage small parts and delicate controls. Precise visual acuity is essential for reading micrometers, inspecting surfaces, and interpreting technical drawings, including the need for depth perception and peripheral vision. Additionally, you must be able to identify verbal cues and machine sounds within a busy production setting.

Work Environment

This position is based in a high-energy manufacturing facility where you will encounter loud equipment, moving parts, and heavy machinery like forklifts and cranes. You will work around industrial lubricants, metal debris, heat-treating vapors, and fluctuating temperatures. Compliance with all safety requirements is mandatory, including the consistent use of hearing protection, safety glasses, and steel-toed footwear.

Additional Information

This summary is intended to provide an overview of the role and does not encompass every possible duty or responsibility. Responsibilities may be updated periodically to align with evolving business needs, and both essential and non-essential functions may be adjusted as required.