Tool & Die Maker A - 1st Shift

Jl Clark; Rockford (IL); On-site; USD 44,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

Rockford Metals in Rockford, IL is seeking a Tool & Die Maker-A for 1st shift. The role emphasizes building, repairing, and maintaining tools, dies, jigs, and fixtures with a focus on precision, safety, and quality. Read blueprints and program CNC/manual tools to exact tolerances.

Experience: equivalent to an A journeyman toolmaker; 5+ years preferred; apprenticeship or equivalent required. Salary range listed as hourly, with duties spanning setup, inspection, and routine maintenance.

Qualifications

• 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.

Responsibilities

• Interpret blueprints, CAD models, and engineering drawings to guide fabrication.
• Set up and operate manual and CNC machine tools to manufacture high-precision parts.
• Use precision measuring instruments to verify parts meet specifications.
• Assemble and disassemble tooling, conduct functional tests and maintenance.
• Diagnose and repair damaged tools/dies and perform routine maintenance.

Skills

Blueprint interpretation

CNC operation

Precision measurement

Quality mindset

Education

High school diploma or GED

Certified apprenticeship program

Tools

Machine tools

Job description

Tool & Die Maker A - 1st Shift

Hot Job

Rockford Metals - Rockford, IL 61104

Overview

Salary Range
$31.53 - $36.08 Hourly

Level
Experienced

Position Type
Full Time

Travel Percentage
None

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 employees
  • Tool room employees
  • Engineering team members

Supervisory RESPONSIBILITIES:

None

Supervised By: Facilities & Tech Services Manager