Tool and Die Maker - Plainwell Area

the-pivot-group-careers; Plainwell (MI); On-site; USD 58,000 - 92,000; Full time

Job summary

The Pivot Group Network in Plainwell, MI is partnering with manufacturers to identify seasoned Tool and Die Makers who can design, build, and maintain tooling to improve production performance.

You will read blueprints, set up lathes, mills, grinders, and EDMs, troubleshoot tooling issues, and collaborate with engineers to optimize tooling efficiency and reduce downtime.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED; apprenticeship preferred.
• Experience reading blueprints, schematics and drawings.
• Experience operating conventional and CNC machine tools (lathes, mills, grinders, EDMs).
• Knowledge of metallurgy and heat treatment processes.
• Proficient with precision measuring instruments (micrometers, calipers).
• Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail for tooling repair.

Responsibilities

• Design and build new dies, jigs, and fixtures.
• Perform preventative maintenance and repair on tooling.
• Troubleshoot tooling problems during production.
• Operate machine tools including lathes, mills, grinders, and EDMs.
• Interpret blueprints and technical drawings.
• Select materials and methods for tool fabrication.
• Collaborate with engineers to optimize tooling performance.

Skills

Blueprints reading

Metallurgy knowledge

Problem solving

Quality control

Education

High school diploma / GED

Tools

CAD/CAM software

CNC programming

SolidWorks

AutoCAD

Job description

Tool and Die Maker | Plainwell, MI

Salary Range: $58,000 - $92,000 depending on experience

Are you a seasoned professional with a passion for excelling in tool and die maker? The Pivot Group Network, a West Michigan manufacturing-focused recruiting group, is committed to fostering meaningful relationships and supporting community growth. We are collaborating with leading companies in Plainwell seeking Tool and Die Makers to lead and enhance their operations.

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 partner with manufacturers across Plainwell seeking Tool and Die Makers who want more than a lateral move. These companies hire intentionally, and we connect them with professionals ready for roles that fit.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and build new dies, jigs, and fixtures.
• Perform preventative maintenance and repair on existing tooling.
• Troubleshoot and diagnose tooling problems during production.
• Operate a variety of machine tools, including lathes, mills, grinders, and EDMs.
• Interpret blueprints, schematics, and technical drawings.
• Select appropriate materials and methods for tool fabrication.
• Collaborate with engineers and production staff to optimize tooling performance.

Recommended Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED; completion of an accredited apprenticeship program or equivalent experience preferred.
• Proficiency in reading and interpreting blueprints, schematics and technical drawings.
• Demonstrated expertise in operating conventional and CNC machine tools (e.g., lathes, mills, grinders, EDMs).
• Strong understanding of metallurgy, heat treatment processes and material properties.
• Proven ability to use precision measuring instruments (e.g., micrometers, calipers, gauges) for quality control.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail for troubleshooting and die repair.

Bonus Qualifications

• Experience with CAD/CAM software (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD, Mastercam)
• Proficiency in operating and programming CNC machinery
• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to troubleshoot complex tooling issues
• Certification in a specialized area (e.g., Jig and Fixture Design, Mold Making)
• Knowledge of advanced metrology techniques and equipment

Job Titles That Should Apply

Tool Maker, Die Maker, Journeyman Tool and Die Maker, Precision Machinist, Mold Maker, CNC Machinist, Metal Fabricator, Journeyman Machinist, Machining Technician, Tool and Die Technician

Why The Pivot Group Network

The Pivot Group Network was founded by manufacturing professionals who've been on both sides of the hiring process. Our clients are strategic—they partner with us because they want real insight into their roles and the people filling them, not a stack of resumes. We focus on match-driven placements built around what actually matters: Commute, Compensation, Culture, and Career trajectory. Learn more at https://www.thepivotgroup.org.