Tool & Die Maker/Repair

Flex-N-Gate LLC.; Grand Rapids (MI); On-site; USD 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Flex-N-Gate LLC. is seeking a skilled Tool Maker to build, repair, and maintain precision tooling used in automotive components. You will work from engineering drawings and CAD designs with a focus on craftsmanship, quality, and safety.

The role supports Engineering, Production, and Maintenance teams on 3rd shift (9pm - 5:30am) Sun - Thu in Grand Rapids, MI. You will operate lathes, mills, surface grinders, and EDM machines, verify dimensions with micrometers and calipers, and ensure tooling

Qualifications

• 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.

Responsibilities

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

Skills

Tool making

CNC operation

Blueprint interpretation

Quality standards

Safety training

Problem solving

Teamwork

Communication

Education

High School diploma or GED

Tool & Die apprenticeship

Tools

Lathes

Mills

Surface grinders

EDM machines

CAD/CAM

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. 3rd Shift (9pm - 5:30am ) Sun - Thu

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

Flex-N-Gate Training Requirements

• CHRF.00003 New Employee Orientation
• Advanced Product Quality Planning
• Control Plan
• Crane Operator Training
• Die Cart Training
• Electronic ECN Training
• Fall Protection
• Gas Air Monitoring
• Hazard Communication
• Hot Work Permit
• Inspection Standards
• Ladder Safety & Inspection
• Lock Out Tag Out Affected Employees
• Machine Guarding
• PFMEA Overview
• Power Press
• Scissor Lift Training
• Used Oil/Universal Waste
• Quality Management Systems - CQAM.00001 Quality Management Systems Manual
• ISO 9001, IATF 16949, and applicable Customer Specific Requirements

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.

Working Conditions

• Some travel may be required.
• On-call from the plant by cell phone after hours.
• Manual dexterity required to use desktop computer and peripherals.
• Position will require sitting, walking or standing for 40+ hours per week.
• Overtime, including weekend work, as required.
• Physical ability to lift 30lbs.
• May be required to use PPE.
• Exposure to an industrial manufacturing environment potentially including: sparks, dust, oil, high noise levels, vibrations, flashing lights, exposure to moving mechanical parts, odors, fumes, and/or airborne particles.

This job description is not inclusive. The duties, experience, functions, and any other descriptions herein may be changed at any time and other duties may be assigned as necessary. The Company reserves the right to add, delete, or otherwise alter these responsibilities when and as necessary.