Tool & Die Maker

Flex-N-Gate; Detroit (MI); On-site; USD 52,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Flex-N-Gate is seeking a skilled Tool Maker to build, repair, and maintain precision tools, dies, fixtures, and molds used in automotive component production. The role requires craftsmanship and the ability to interpret engineering drawings to meet exacting standards.

You will work closely with Engineering, Production, and Maintenance teams to ensure tooling supports safe, efficient, and high-quality manufacturing operations. Safety and quality compliance are essential in daily tasks.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Completion of Tool & Die apprenticeship program or equivalent technical training.
• 3+ years of experience as a Tool Maker, preferably in automotive/manufacturing.
• Provincial Trade License or equivalent experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Manufacture new tools, dies, jigs, fixtures, and molds from blueprints or CAD.
• Repair and maintain tooling to minimize downtime.
• Operate manual and CNC machines (lathes, mills, surface grinders, EDM).
• Perform precision measurements using micrometers, calipers, and gauges.
• Interpret complex drawings, CAD files, and work instructions.
• Support production with timely tooling solutions and quality compliance.
• Build dies from blueprints and supervisor lineups; maintain tool room housekeeping.
• Collaborate with other departments to resolve tooling problems.

Skills

Time management

Problem solving

Accountability

Analysis

Decision making

Coaching

Communication

Teamwork

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tool & Die apprenticeship/technical training

Tools

CNC machines

Calipers

EDM machines

Job description

Summary

The Tool Maker is responsible for building, repairing, and maintaining precision tools, dies, fixtures, and molds used in the production of automotive components. This role requires a high level of craftsmanship, attention to detail, and the ability to work from engineering drawings and specifications to produce tooling that meets exacting standards. Working closely with Engineering, Production, and Maintenance teams, the Tool Maker ensures that all tooling supports efficient, safe, and high-quality manufacturing operations.

Core Competencies

• Time Management
• Development and Continual Learning
• Problem Solving
• Accountability and Dependability
• Research Analysis
• Decision Making and Judgement
• Providing Consultation
• Ethics and Integrity
• Planning Organizing
• Mathematical Reasoning
• Enforcing Laws, Rules and Regulations
• Coaching and Mentoring
• Communication

• Teamwork

Job Duties

• Manufacture new tools, dies, jigs, fixtures, and molds based on blueprints or CAD designs.
• Repair and maintain existing tooling to ensure optimal performance and minimal production downtime.
• Operate a variety of manual and CNC machines including lathes, mills, surface grinders, and EDM machines.
• Perform precision measurements using micrometers, calipers, and gauges to verify dimensions.
• Interpret complex technical drawings, CAD files, and work instructions.
• Support production teams by providing timely and effective tooling solutions.
• Comply with all quality systems and procedures.
• Builds dies from blueprints, drawing, last off status cards and supervisor lineups.
• Work with other departments to resolve Tooling problems.
• Maintain good housekeeping in the tool room work area.
• Work and dress safely (i.e., wear proper protective equipment, demonstrate safe use of all machinery and equipment, etc.).
• Responsible for working in a safe manner and following all Health and Safety procedures.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Completion of a Tool & Die apprenticeship program or equivalent technical training.
• 3+ years of experience as a Tool Maker, preferably in an automotive or high-volume manufacturing environment.
• Possess a Provincial Trade License or equivalent experience preferred.