Tool & Die Maker
Shift: Weekend Shift | Friday–Sunday, 12-Hour Shifts
About the Company
Company manufactures precision-engineered aerospace components and assemblies for customers in the commercial aviation, defense, and general aviation industries. Our work requires a strong commitment to manufacturing quality, dependable delivery, and meeting the demanding specifications of our customers.
We are looking for a skilled Tool & Die Maker who takes pride in craftsmanship, works well independently, and understands the importance of precision and reliability in a high-performance manufacturing environment.
Position Overview
Reporting to the Engineering Manager, the Tool & Die Maker is responsible for producing, maintaining, repairing, and modifying tooling and related equipment used in manufacturing operations. This includes dies, jigs, fixtures, gauges, and other specialized tools required to support accurate and repeatable production.
The successful candidate will operate CNC and conventional machine tools, interpret technical requirements, perform precision fitting and assembly, and troubleshoot tooling or equipment issues. The role may also require developing custom tools or solutions when existing designs or documentation are unavailable.
This position offers a consistent weekend schedule, working three 12-hour shifts from Friday through Sunday.
Key Responsibilities
Tooling and Machining
- Operate Hurco CNC milling machines, applying knowledge of G-code and M-code programming to perform machining operations.
- Use a variety of toolroom equipment, including milling machines, lathes, grinders, saws, and other manual or CNC machinery.
- Manufacture, assemble, adjust, and repair dies, jigs, fixtures, gauges, and specialized tooling to meet operational requirements.
- Develop or modify tooling solutions when standard designs are unavailable or existing tools require adaptation.
- Operate overhead lifting equipment when required and in accordance with applicable safety procedures.
Precision Measurement and Quality
- Inspect completed components and tooling to verify dimensional accuracy and compliance with engineering drawings and customer specifications.
- Use precision inspection equipment, including micrometers, calipers, pin and thread gauges, dial indicators, height gauges, optical comparators, and coordinate measuring machines (CMMs).
- Identify dimensional discrepancies, investigate machining or tooling issues, and make appropriate adjustments to achieve required specifications.
- Follow established quality procedures and maintain accurate measurements and inspection results.
Equipment Maintenance and Shop Operations
- Monitor machining processes and make necessary adjustments to machine settings, tooling, and CNC programs to maintain production accuracy.
- Sharpen, replace, and maintain cutting tools and other equipment components as needed.
- Perform routine equipment care, identify malfunctions, and coordinate repairs when necessary.
- Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area through regular housekeeping and adherence to workplace safety requirements.
- Complete required production and labor reporting accurately in the company's enterprise resource planning (ERP) system.
- Document work completed, communicate equipment or production concerns, and provide clear shift handover information to support continuity of operations.
Teamwork and Professional Accountability
- Manage time and organize work effectively to meet production priorities and deadlines.
- Balance multiple tasks while maintaining attention to detail and workmanship standards.
- Maintain and expand technical knowledge through training, technical documentation, and relevant learning opportunities.
- Demonstrate personal accountability, initiative, and a willingness to take ownership of assigned work.
- Maintain dependable attendance, a professional attitude, and a cooperative approach to working with colleagues.
Qualifications and Experience
- High school diploma or GED required.
- Practical knowledge of CNC and conventional machining processes.
- Ability to operate a broad range of toolroom machinery, including mills, lathes, grinders, and saws.
- Working knowledge of CNC programming, including G-code and M-code.
- Familiarity with manufacturing processes such as stamping, welding, and heat treatment.
- Strong shop mathematics skills, including geometry, trigonometry, and dimensional calculations.
- Ability to interpret technical drawings, assess dimensional requirements, and use precision measuring instruments.
- Strong mechanical aptitude, troubleshooting ability, and practical problem-solving skills.
- Effective organizational and time-management skills, with the ability to prioritize work in a production environment.
- Ability to work independently while communicating effectively with engineering and manufacturing personnel.
- Must meet the U.S. Government definition of a “U.S. Person” and be legally eligible to access applicable ITAR-controlled technical data without restriction.
- Willingness to travel occasionally for training or support at other company locations, as business needs require.
Physical Requirements
This position involves hands-on work in a machine shop and requires the ability to:
- Lift, push, or pull materials and equipment weighing up to 50 pounds.
- Remain standing for approximately 95% of the scheduled shift.
- Frequently reach, twist, bend, and grasp while handling tools, setting up equipment, and positioning materials.
Candidates must be able to perform the essential physical functions of the position, with reasonable accommodation where applicable.
Benefits
Company offers a comprehensive benefits package to eligible full-time employees, which includes:
- Paid time off
- Health insurance
- Dental insurance
- Vision insurance
- Paid holidays
- 401(k) retirement plan
- Disability insurance
- Additional employee benefits
Join Our Team
Bring your machining expertise and attention to detail to a manufacturing environment where precision and quality matter. As a Tool & Die Maker, you will play a direct role in maintaining the tooling and equipment that support the production of complex aerospace components.