Tool and Die Maker - Montague Area

the-pivot-group-careers; Montague Township (MI); On-site; USD 57,000 - 91,000; Full time

Job summary

Pivot Group Network collaborates with Montague-based manufacturers to recruit Tool and Die Makers for West Michigan operations.

Design, build and inspect dies and tooling, using manual and CNC machines, with a strong focus on quality and precision. A formal apprenticeship and 5+ years of experience are preferred to advance in this skilled trades network.

Qualifications

• Completion of a formal apprenticeship in Tool and Die Making or a related field.
• 5+ years of setup, operation, and maintenance of manual and CNC machining equipment (lathes, mills, grinders).
• Ability to read blueprints, technical drawings, and GD&T specifications.
• Strong understanding of metallurgy, heat treatment, and material properties.
• Proven ability to troubleshoot and resolve complex tooling and die issues.
• Experience with precision measurement tools and inspection techniques to ensure quality.

Responsibilities

• Design and build new dies, tools, and fixtures from blueprints or sketches.
• Operate a variety of machine tools, including lathes, milling machines, grinders, and EDMs, to create precision components.
• Perform preventive maintenance and repair on existing dies and tooling to ensure optimal performance.
• Troubleshoot and diagnose issues with production tooling, implementing effective solutions to minimize downtime.
• Inspect finished tools and dies for accuracy and conformity to specifications using precision measuring instruments.
• Collaborate with engineering and production teams to optimize tool design and manufacturing processes.

Skills

Blueprint reading

GD&T specifications

Metallurgy knowledge

Troubleshooting

Mentoring junior toolmakers

Education

Formal apprenticeship in Tool and Die Making

Tools

SolidWorks

AutoCAD

Mastercam

CNC machinery

Job description

Tool and Die Maker | Montague, MI

Salary Range: $57,000 - $91,000 depending on experience

Are you a detail-oriented professional with a passion for excelling in tool and die maker? The Pivot Group Network, a West Michigan manufacturing-focused recruiting group, is dedicated to fostering meaningful relationships and supporting career advancement. We are collaborating with leading companies in Montague seeking experienced Tool and Die Makers.

We are building our network of talent in this field across West Michigan and the broader manufacturing region Pivot Group Network serves. Our partner companies may or may not have an immediate opening for this exact role today, but we actively look for skilled professionals in the regions where they operate. If there is alignment now or in the near future, we reach out.

The Opportunity

We are working with companies in Montague that are adding Tool and Die Makers to their teams. These organizations value quality over speed in hiring. By connecting with us, you position yourself for opportunities that align with what you're looking for.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and build new dies, tools, and fixtures from blueprints or sketches.
• Operate a variety of machine tools, including lathes, milling machines, grinders, and EDMs, to create precision components.
• Perform preventive maintenance and repair on existing dies and tooling to ensure optimal performance.
• Troubleshoot and diagnose issues with production tooling, implementing effective solutions to minimize downtime.
• Inspect finished tools and dies for accuracy and conformity to specifications using precision measuring instruments.
• Collaborate with engineering and production teams to optimize tool design and manufacturing processes.

Recommended Qualifications

• Completion of a formal apprenticeship program in Tool and Die Making or a related field
• 5+ years of experience in the setup, operation, and maintenance of manual and CNC machining equipment (lathes, mills, grinders)
• Proficient in reading and interpreting blueprints, technical drawings, and GD&T specifications
• Strong understanding of metallurgy, heat treatment processes, and material properties
• Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot and resolve complex tooling and die issues
• Experience with precision measurement tools and inspection techniques to ensure quality standards

Bonus Qualifications

• Experience with CAD/CAM software (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD, Mastercam)
• Proficiency in operating and programming CNC machinery (e.g., mills, lathes, EDM)
• Certification or advanced training in a specialized area (e.g., jig grinding, mold making, progressive dies)
• Demonstrated ability to mentor or train junior toolmakers
• Experience with metrology equipment and techniques (e.g., CMM, optical comparators)

Job Titles That Should Apply

Tool and Die Maker, Toolmaker, Die Maker, Journeyman Toolmaker, Precision Machinist, Mold Maker, CNC Tool Maker, Jig and Fixture Builder, Metal Fabricator, Journeyman Die Maker