Tool Maker

Columbia Manufacturing Inc; Independence (KS); On-site; USD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Short-term disability

Long-term disability

Life insurance

Medical insurance

Dental insurance

401(k) plan with company match

Job summary

A leading aerospace manufacturing company in Independence, Kansas, seeks a highly skilled Tool Maker to fabricate, maintain, and repair precision tools. Candidates should have a minimum of 5 years experience in precision manufacturing, strong mechanical aptitude, and knowledge of aerospace-grade materials. Responsibilities include interpreting blueprints, performing precision machining, and collaborating with engineers to improve tool functionality. A comprehensive benefits package is offered, including medical insurance and a 401(k) plan with company match.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of experience as a tool maker in precision manufacturing or aerospace environment.
• Strong knowledge of machining processes and tooling materials.
• Experience with aerospace alloys such as aluminum and titanium.

Responsibilities

• Fabricate and maintain precision tools, dies, and fixtures.
• Interpret blueprints and CAD drawings to produce precise tooling.
• Inspect tools using precision measuring instruments.

Skills

Blueprint reading

CNC machine operation

Precision measurement techniques

Problem-solving

Metallurgy knowledge

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Technical certification or vocational training

Tools

Precision measuring instruments

CAD/CAM software

Job description

A We are seeking a highly skilled Tool Maker to fabricate, maintain, and repair precision tools, dies, fixtures, jigs, and gauges used in the production of aerospace components. The ideal candidate will have strong mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and experience working with tight tolerances and aerospace-grade materials. This role ensures tooling integrity, repeatability, and compliance with AS9100 and company quality standards.

Key Responsibilities:

• Fabricate, assemble, and maintain production tools, dies, jigs, and fixtures according to engineering drawings and specifications.
• Interpret blueprints, CAD drawings, and geometric tolerances (GD&T) to produce precise tooling.
• Perform precision machining, grinding, welding, and assembly operations on tooling components.
• Inspect tools using precision measuring instruments (micrometers, calipers, height gauges, CMM, etc.) to ensure compliance with specifications.
• Troubleshoot and repair worn or damaged tooling to minimize production downtime.
• Collaborate with engineers, quality inspectors, and production staff to improve tool design and functionality.
• Maintain detailed documentation of tooling specifications, maintenance schedules, and repair logs.
• Knowledge of setups and running of various manual and CNC machines (0-60” capacity lathe, mill, etc.).
• Follow all safety policies and procedures, including PPE usage and machine guarding.
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives to optimize tooling processes and manufacturing efficiency.
• Ensure tooling meets AS9100, customer, and internal quality standards.

REQUIRED SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• High school diploma or equivalent; technical certification or vocational training preferred.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience as a tool maker in precision manufacturing or aerospace environment.
• Strong knowledge of metallurgy, machining processes, and tooling materials.
• Proficient in manual and CNC machine operation (mills, lathes, grinders, etc.).
• Skilled in blueprint reading, GD&T interpretation, and precision measurement techniques.
• Excellent problem-solving, troubleshooting, and mechanical aptitude.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team, be open-minded and flexible with changing priorities.
• Strong organizational, documentation skills, and attention to detail.
• experience with aerospace alloys such as aluminum, titanium, stainless steel, and Inconel.
• Familiarity with CAD/CAM software for tool design is preferred.
• Knowledge of welding, assembly, and fabrication processes (sheet metal, saw cutting, deburring).
• Experience in lean manufacturing or continuous improvement methodologies.
• Willingness to work overtime as needed.

QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS:

• Demonstrate training ability and be able to support internal customer needs.
• Accurately read engineering prints
• Lift up to 35 pounds and stand for an eight-hour shift.
• Demonstrate commitment to quality, safety and communication and be a team player.

The requirements listed are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Columbia Manufacturing is an Equal Opportunity Employer

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.

We are a drug-free workplace and all applicants will be required to pass a pre-employment drug screen and may be subject to our random drug testing program depending on where they are assigned to work.

We offer our employees a comprehensive benefit package that includes, among other benefits, short-term disability, long-term disability, and life insurance. We also offer several options for medical insurance, dental insurance, and 401(k) plan with a Company match.