Tool & Die Maker A - 1st Shift

J L CLARK INC; Gottfred Subdivision (IL); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

J L CLARK INC in Illinois is seeking a skilled Tool and Die Maker to build, repair, and maintain tools, dies, fixtures, gauges, and related equipment. You will read blueprints, CAD models, and specifications to fabricate parts with high precision, supporting production with minimal downtime and top quality.

The role requires a certified apprenticeship or equivalent hands-on experience, at least five years as a journeyman, and proficiency with manual and CNC machine tools.

Qualifications

• Requires a high school diploma or GED and completion of an apprenticeship or equivalent hands-on training.
• Minimum of five years of journeyman experience as a toolmaker is required.
• Must demonstrate journeyman A level proficiency and strong machining skills.

Responsibilities

• Interpret blueprints, CAD models, and drawings to guide fabrication.
• Set up and operate manual and CNC tools to manufacture high-precision tools and dies.
• Inspect parts with micrometers, calipers, and gauges to ensure tolerances.
• Diagnose and repair damaged tooling and perform routine maintenance on equipment.

Skills

Blueprint reading

CAD interpretation

Precision measurement

Quality focus

Problem solving

Education

High school diploma or GED

Certified apprenticeship program

Journeyman A level certification

Tools

Manual machine tools

CNC machining

Precision measuring tools

Gauge calibration

Job description

Position Summary:The Tool and Die Maker-A is responsible for building, repairing, and maintaining tools, dies, fixtures, gauges, and related equipment. This role supports production operations by correcting tooling issues, ensuring parts meet customer specifications, and minimizing downtime. Work must be performed with precision and a strong focus on quality, safety, and customer satisfaction. This position requires skills and experience equivalent to an \"A\" journeyman toolmaker.PRIMARY DUTIES:Interpret technical blueprints, CAD models, and engineering drawings to fully understand design specifications and required part geometry.Set up and operate a variety of machine tools (manual and CNC) to manufacture high-precision tools, dies, and machine components to exact tolerances.Use precision measurement instruments—including micrometers, calipers, and gauges—to inspect and verify that finished parts meet all dimensional and quality specifications.Assemble and disassemble complex tooling and components, conducting functional tests to ensure proper operation and adherence to performance standards.Diagnose and repair damaged or worn tools and dies, restoring them to operational condition through skilled machining, fitting, or rework.Conduct routine maintenance on machine tools and equipment, ensuring machines operate safely, efficiently, and with minimal downtime.Fabricate, assemble, repair, and maintain tools, dies, gauges, jigs, and fixtures to support production.Troubleshoot and resolve tooling issues to minimize downtime and maintain quality standards.Read and interpret blueprints, CAD models, and technical specifications to guide fabrication and repairs.Set up and operate manual and CNC machine tools, including lathes, mills, grinders and equipment, with a high degree of precision.Program and set up CNC machines as needed to meet production requirements.Inspect finished parts and tools using precision measuring instruments to ensure conformance to specifications.Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.Collaborate with production, engineering, and tool room teams to ensure alignment and effective workflow.Education, Training & Experience:High school diploma or GED required.Completion of a certified apprenticeship program or equivalent hands-on experience.Minimum of five (5) years of relevant experience as a journeyman toolmaker.Must demonstrate expertise and proficiency at a journeyman “A” level.SPECIAL EQUIPMENT OR OTHER REQUIREMENTS:Machine tools (manual and CNC), and precision hand tools.Measuring instruments such as micrometers, calipers, dial indicators, and gauges.Must possess strong analytical and mechanical aptitude with excellent manual dexterity.Required to supply personal hand tools and measuring instruments for daily use.Relationships:Interacts regularly with:Production employeesTool room employeesEngineering team membersSupervisory RESPONSIBILITIES:NoneSupervised By: Facilities & Tech Services Manager