Tool Maker

STEEL TOOL & ENGINEERING CO.; Trenton (MI); On-site; USD 36,000 - 52,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

100% Medical Paid

Dental and Vision Insurance

Life Insurance

401K

Paid Holidays

Paid Vacations

Job summary

Steel Tool & Engineering Co. is seeking a Tool Maker in Trenton, MI. You will fabricate, repair, and maintain precision tools and fixtures for aerospace precision machining.

The role demands expert machining, accurate blueprint interpretation, and independent work from engineering documentation to meet tight tolerances. Responsibilities include setting up CNC/manual machines, inspecting tooling with precision instruments, and contributing to continuous improvement through Kaizen activities.

Qualifications

• 3–5 years of experience in a tool room or precision machining environment preferred.
• Apprenticeship or Journeyman certification is a plus.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints and CAD/CAM drawings.
• Proficient in using precision measuring tools and inspection equipment.

Responsibilities

• Read and interpret engineering drawings and specifications to determine tooling requirements.
• Machine, assemble, and finish tools using CNC machines and manual equipment.
• Set up and operate CNC and manual machining equipment to produce precision components.
• Inspect finished tools with micrometers, calipers, and height gauges to ensure dimensional accuracy.
• Diagnose wear or failure, perform repairs, and restore tooling to production-ready condition.
• Plan machining sequences and setups to efficiently produce tooling.
• Support Kaizen activities and root-cause analysis to improve tooling reliability.

Skills

Precision Machining

Mechanical Aptitude

CAD/CAM Knowledge

Metrology

Problem Solving

Attention to Detail

Communication

Education

Tool & Die apprenticeship or Journeyman certification

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

CNC machines

Manual mills & lathes

CMM/MEASUREMENT TOOLS

Job description

Job Description

Tool Maker

Location

Trenton, MI Company: Steel Tool & Engineering Co.

Industry

Aerospace Precision Machining & Fabrication

Employment Type

Full-Time, Hourly

Shift

6 am-4:30 pm

About Us

Steel Tool & Engineering is a leading aerospace manufacturer specializing in precision machining, complex metal fabrication, and welded assemblies. As an AS9100-certified and NADCAP-accredited facility, we are committed to delivering exceptional quality, reliability, and compliance across all operations.

Overview

A Tool Maker builds, repairs, and maintains precision tools, dies, jigs, fixtures, and specialized equipment used in manufacturing operations. This role requires expert machining skills, strong blueprint interpretation, and the ability to work independently from engineering documentation to produce high-accuracy components that meet tight tolerances.

Responsibilities

• Blueprint Interpretation — Read and interpret engineering drawings, CAD models, and specifications to determine tooling requirements.
• Tool Fabrication — Machine, assemble, and finish tools using CNC machines, manual mills/lathes, grinders, and hand tools.
• Equipment Operation — Set up and operate CNC and manual machining equipment to produce precision components.
• Inspection & Conformance — Inspect finished tools using micrometers, calipers, height gauges, CMMs, and other measurement devices to ensure dimensional accuracy.
• Tool Repair & Maintenance — Diagnose wear or failure, perform repairs, and restore tooling to production-ready condition.
• Process Planning — Determine machining sequences, setups, and methods to efficiently produce tooling.
• Continuous Improvement — Participate in problem-solving, Kaizen activities, and root-cause analysis to improve tooling reliability and manufacturing processes.
• Documentation — Maintain accurate records, update setup sheets, and communicate tooling changes to engineering and production teams.
• Safety & 5S — Follow safety protocols and maintain a clean, organized workspace.
• Repetitive tasks with few breaks
• Ability to lift 50lbs

Qualifications

• Precision Machining — Strong CNC and manual machining capabilities.
• Mechanical Aptitude — Ability to understand mechanical relationships, tolerances, and fits.
• CAD/CAM Knowledge — Experience with CAD drawings; CAM programming is a plus.
• Metrology — Skilled in using precision measurement tools.
• Problem Solving — Ability to troubleshoot tooling issues and propose effective solutions.
• Attention to Detail — High accuracy and consistency in machining and assembly.
• Communication — Clear communication with engineers, machinists, and production teams.
• Tool & Die apprenticeship, Journeyman certification, or equivalent experience is a plus.
• 3–5 years of experience in a tool room or precision machining environment preferred.

Benefits

• 100% Medical Paid (If you already have medical coverage and don’t request STE medical insurance, you can receive the medical waiver of $300 per month.)
• Dental and Vision Insurance (Includes Dependents)
• Life Insurance
• 401K
• Paid Holidays
• Paid Vacations

You Should Be Proficient In

• Troubleshooting Skills
• Metal Stamping & Forming (Progressive Die)
• Manual Machining Skills
• Tool/Die/Mold Repair Skills
• Tool/Die/Mold Setup Experience