Tool and Die Maker - Traverse City Area

the-pivot-group-careers; Traverse City (MI); On-site; USD 62,000 - 97,000; Full time

Job summary

Tool and Die Maker in Traverse City, MI is sought by The Pivot Group Network to connect with manufacturers in the region. The role involves designing and building tools, dies, and fixtures, plus maintaining tooling to keep production running smoothly.

You’ll read blueprints and CAD models, measure with micrometers and calipers, and work with CNC machinery to ensure precise, reliable tooling. Collaboration with engineers and production teams is essential.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in tool and die making within a manufacturing environment.
• Completion of an apprenticeship or relevant technical training.
• Strong knowledge of blueprints, GD&T, and precision measurement tools.

Responsibilities

• Design and build new tools, dies, and fixtures.
• Repair and maintain existing tooling to ensure production continuity.
• Operate a variety of machine tools such as lathes, mills, grinders, and EDMs.
• Interpret blueprints, schematics, and CAD models to determine specifications and layout.
• Perform precision measurements using micrometers, calipers, and gauges.
• Troubleshoot and diagnose issues with tooling during the manufacturing process.
• Collaborate with engineers and production staff to optimize tool design and performance.

Skills

Tool and Die making

Blueprints

GD&T

Precision measurement

Problem solving

Apprenticeship

Education

Apprenticeship or technical training

Tools

SolidWorks

AutoCAD

Mastercam

CNC programming

Lathes & Mills

Job description

Tool and Die Maker | Traverse City, MI

Salary Range: $62,000 - $97,000 depending on experience

Are you a meticulous 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 growth. We are collaborating with companies in Traverse City 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 partner with manufacturers across Traverse City 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 tools, dies, and fixtures.
• Repair and maintain existing tooling to ensure production continuity.
• Operate a variety of machine tools such as lathes, mills, grinders, and EDMs.
• Interpret blueprints, schematics, and CAD models to determine specifications and layout.
• Perform precision measurements using instruments like micrometers, calipers, and gauges.
• Troubleshoot and diagnose issues with tooling during the manufacturing process.
• Collaborate with engineers and production staff to optimize tool design and performance.

Recommended Qualifications

• Proven experience in tool and die making within a manufacturing environment.
• Strong knowledge of blueprints, GD&T, and precision measurement tools.
• Proficiency in operating manual and CNC machinery (mills, lathes, grinders).
• Ability to perform complex setups, fabricate, troubleshoot, and repair various tooling.
• Demonstrated problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
• Completion of an apprenticeship or relevant technical training.

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 toolmaking discipline (e.g., jig and fixture design, progressive dies)
• Familiarity with lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement methodologies
• Ability to perform complex mathematical calculations and apply principles of trigonometry and geometry to tool design and fabrication

Job Titles That Should Apply

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

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.