Tool Maker - Battle Creek Area

the-pivot-group-careers; Battle Creek (MI); On-site; USD 54,000 - 86,000; Full time

Job summary

The Pivot Group Network in West Michigan partners with Battle Creek manufacturers seeking Tool Makers who want more than a lateral move. These companies hire intentionally, and we connect them with professionals ready for roles that fit.

Ideal candidates have Journeyman Tool Maker certification and hands-on experience with manual and CNC machining, GD&T, and precision measuring; join a network that values craftsmanship and reliability.

Qualifications

• Journeyman Tool Maker certification or equivalent experience.
• Proficient reading of blueprints, schematics, and technical drawings.
• Experience operating manual and CNC machines (lathes, mills, grinders).
• Strong understanding of GD&T principles and their application.
• Experience with precision measuring instruments and inspection techniques.

Responsibilities

• Fabricate, repair, and modify tools, dies, jigs, and fixtures.
• Interpret blueprints, sketches, and engineering specifications.
• Operate a variety of machine tools including lathes, mills, grinders, and EDM machines.
• Perform precision measurements using micrometers, calipers, and gauges.
• Troubleshoot and diagnose issues with existing tooling.
• Maintain and calibrate equipment to ensure accuracy and optimal performance.

Skills

Blueprint reading

CNC machine operation

Manual machine operation

GD&T knowledge

Troubleshooting tooling

Education

Journeyman Tool Maker certification

Tools

Lathes

Mills

Grinders

EDM machines

Job description

Tool Maker | Battle Creek, MI

Salary Range: $54,000 - $86,000 depending on experience

Are you a skilled professional with a passion for precision tooling and creating high-quality dies and molds? The Pivot Group Network, a West Michigan manufacturing-focused recruiting group, is dedicated to building meaningful connections in the manufacturing community. We are collaborating with companies in Battle Creek seeking experienced Tool Makers.

We are building our network of talent in this field across West Michigan and the broader manufacturing region Pivot Group Network serves. Our partner companies may or may not have an immediate opening for this exact role today, but we actively look for skilled professionals in the regions where they operate. If there is alignment now or in the near future, we reach out.

The Opportunity

We partner with manufacturers across Battle Creek seeking Tool Makers who want more than a lateral move. These companies hire intentionally, and we connect them with professionals ready for roles that fit.

Key Responsibilities

• Fabricate, repair, and modify tools, dies, jigs, and fixtures.
• Interpret blueprints, sketches, and engineering specifications.
• Operate a variety of machine tools including lathes, mills, grinders, and EDM machines.
• Perform precision measurements using instruments such as micrometers, calipers, and gauges.
• Troubleshoot and diagnose issues with existing tooling.
• Maintain and calibrate equipment to ensure accuracy and optimal performance.
• Collaborate with engineers and production staff to optimize tool designs and processes.

Recommended Qualifications

• Journeyman Tool Maker certification or equivalent experience
• Proficiency in reading and interpreting blueprints, schematics, and technical drawings
• Demonstrated expertise in operating a variety of manual and CNC machines (e.g., lathes, mills, grinders)
• Strong understanding of GD&T principles and their application
• Experience with precision measuring instruments and inspection techniques
• Ability to troubleshoot, diagnose, and repair complex tooling issues

Bonus Qualifications

• Additional certifications or training

Job Titles That Should Apply

Tool Maker, Die Maker, Mold Maker, Machinist - Tool Room, Tool and Die Maker, Precision Tool Maker, Jig Maker, Fixture Maker, CNC Tool Maker, Prototype Tool Maker

Why The Pivot Group Network

The Pivot Group Network was founded by manufacturing professionals who've been on both sides of the hiring process. Our clients are strategic—they partner with us because they want real insight into their roles and the people filling them, not a stack of resumes. We focus on match-driven placements built around what actually matters: Commute, Compensation, Culture, and Career trajectory. Learn more at https://www.thepivotgroup.org.