Tool & Die Specialist

HGC Industries; Indianapolis (IN); On-site; USD 30,307 - 41,328; Full time

Job summary

HGC Industries in Indianapolis is seeking a Tool & Die Maintenance Technician to maintain and repair tooling and dies essential for high-quality production. This role requires collaboration across various teams to troubleshoot issues affecting manufacturing timelines. With competitive pay of $22 – $30 per hour, it offers full-time employment in a dynamic manufacturing environment.

The ideal candidate will have over 5 years of experience in tool and die work, with strong problem-solving and adaptability skills. Join us to enhance our efficient operations and ensure top-notch quality in our products.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of tool and die experience required.
• 5+ years of experience in a manufacturing facility preferred.
• 3+ years of experience in automotive manufacturing preferred.

Responsibilities

• Maintain, repair, and modify tooling and dies.
• Collaboration with Quality, Engineering, and Production teams.
• Implement effective solutions for tooling-related issues.

Skills

Proficient math skills

Root cause analysis

Blueprint reading

Basic skills in Microsoft Office

Multi-project management

Time management

Adaptability

Self-sufficient work ethic

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Tool and Die Maker Trade Certifications

Certified in Manufacturing CNC equipment

Forklift Operator Certification

National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS) Certification

Job description

Join HGC Industries as a Tool & Die Maintenance Technician and become part of a team that takes pride in precision, problem‑solving, and excellence. In this hands‑on role, you’ll maintain, repair, troubleshoot, and improve tooling and dies to keep our manufacturing operations running efficiently and producing high‑quality parts.

Job Overview

The Tool & Die Technician supports HGC’s mission by maintaining, repairing, and modifying tooling and dies to ensure consistent production of high‑quality parts that meet internal and customer expectations. This individual collaborates closely with Quality, Engineering, and Production teams to identify, troubleshoot, and implement effective solutions for tooling‑related issues that could impact manufacturing timelines or part quality. The Technician also executes tooling changes and adjustments as required to support ongoing production and customer requirements.

Essential Functions

• Accurately measure tools and components using high‑precision instruments such as height gauges, calipers, micrometers, and depth gauges.
• Perform rework and repair of all steel tooling utilizing in‑house equipment, including manual mill, manual lathe, surface grinder, and standard hand tools.
• Interpret customer blueprints to verify tooling accuracy and ensure compliance with specifications.
• Troubleshoot machine and tooling issues at the point of use, identify root causes, and implement effective solutions.
• Collaborate cross‑functionally with Quality, Engineering, and Maintenance teams to support and execute in‑house continuous improvement initiatives.
• Maintain and manage tooling improvement records through spreadsheet tracking systems, ensuring accurate and timely updates.
• Utilize the ERP system effectively to ensure full traceability, proper staging, and accurate status updates for all production tooling.
• Work collaboratively with cross‑functional teams to determine task priorities and establish clear expectations for deadlines and deliverables.
• Participate in internal design reviews for new products, providing input on tooling requirements, feasibility, and performance expectations.
• Foster strong relationships across departments and team members to promote collaboration, support peer development, and drive organizational growth.
• Manage tooling repair tickets to improve turnaround time and efficiency.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Required Skills & Abilities

• Proficient math skills, including applying basic math to solve more complex problems often involving multi‑step calculations.
• Skilled in root cause analysis and hands‑on problem solving of tooling and die‑related issues.
• Ability to read blueprints and identify non‑conforming product.
• Basic skills in Microsoft Office tools, including Word and Excel.
• Ability to effectively manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Excellent time management skills and the ability to efficiently manage priorities and tasks based on importance.
• Adaptability skills to manage demands, frequent changes, delays, or unexpected events.
• Ability to work self‑sufficiently to ensure accuracy and quality of tasks.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED preferred.
• 5+ years of tool and die experience required.
• 5+ years of experience in a manufacturing facility preferred.
• 3+ years of experience in automotive manufacturing – preferred.
• Certified in Manufacturing CNC equipment – preferred.
• Tool and Die Maker Trade Certifications – preferred.
• Forklift Operator Certification – preferred.
• National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS) Certification – preferred.

Physical Demands

Standing for extended periods (5–10 hours/day). Walking for long periods (1–5 hours/day). Stoop, kneel, crouch, and crawl often. Climbing on ladders, scaffolding, and/or stairs occasionally. Occasionally lifting, moving, and carrying up to 50 pounds.

Environmental Conditions

Manufacturing plant and office employees will be exposed to noise, dirt, dust, fumes, odors, chemicals, and other airborne particles.

Travel Requirements

None.

Compensation

$22 – $30 per hour based on experience.

Classification

Full‑Time, Non‑Exempt.

Schedule

Monday through Friday, 6:00 am to 2:30 pm.

Location

On‑Site, Indianapolis (Martindale‑Brightwood area).

Equal Opportunity Employer

HGC Industries provides equal employment opportunities to all qualified employees and applicants. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any type. We are committed to a work environment that supports, inspires, and respects all individuals and in which personnel processes are merit‑based and applied without discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, age, disability, national or ethnic origin, military service status, citizenship, or other protected characteristics protected by federal, state, and local laws.

Job Description Summary

This job description summarizes the typical job functions. It is not an exhaustive or comprehensive list of all possible responsibilities, tasks, and duties required by the employee. Duties, responsibilities, and functions may differ from those outlined in this job description and may change at any time.