Tool Maker - Kalamazoo Area

the-pivot-group-careers; Kalamazoo (MI); On-site; USD 53,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

Tool Maker in Kalamazoo, MI, sought to fabricate, alter, and repair dies and molds. Interpret blueprints and GD&T; operate lathes, mills, grinders, and EDM machines to tight tolerances.

This on-site role requires collaboration with engineers and production staff, plus strong measurement, problem-solving, and metal heat-treatment knowledge. Salary ranges $53,000–$85,000 based on experience; opportunities for growth.

Qualifications

• Completion of a Tool & Die Apprenticeship or equivalent experience.
• Proficiency in operating manual machining equipment (lathes, mills, grinders).
• Ability to interpret complex engineering blueprints and GD&T.
• Strong understanding of various metals, alloys, and heat treatment processes.
• Demonstrated experience in precision measurement and inspection techniques.

Responsibilities

• Fabricate, alter, and repair a wide variety of tools, dies, jigs, and fixtures.
• Interpret complex blueprints, schematics, and engineering drawings.
• Operate precision machinery such as lathes, mills, grinders, and EDM machines.
• Perform close tolerance machining and fitting of parts.
• Conduct in-process and final inspections to ensure quality and adherence to specifications.
• Troubleshoot and resolve issues related to tooling performance and design.

Skills

GD&T interpretation

Precision measurement

Troubleshooting tooling

Metals & heat treatment

Education

Tool & Die Apprenticeship

Equivalent experience

Tools

Lathe

Milling machine

Grinder

EDM machine

Job description

Tool Maker | Kalamazoo, MI

Salary Range: $53,000 - $85,000 depending on experience

Are you a dedicated 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 committed to fostering meaningful relationships and supporting career growth. We partner with leading manufacturing companies in Kalamazoo, seeking experienced Tool Makers to strengthen their teams.

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 Kalamazoo 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, alter, and repair a wide variety of tools, dies, jigs, and fixtures.
• Interpret complex blueprints, schematics, and engineering drawings.
• Operate precision machinery such as lathes, mills, grinders, and EDM machines.
• Perform close tolerance machining and fitting of parts.
• Conduct in-process and final inspections to ensure quality and adherence to specifications.
• Troubleshoot and resolve issues related to tooling performance and design.
• Collaborate with engineers and production staff to optimize tool design and manufacturing processes.

Recommended Qualifications

• Completion of a Tool & Die Apprenticeship or equivalent experience.
• Proficiency in operating manual machining equipment (lathes, mills, grinders).
• Ability to interpret complex engineering blueprints and GD&T.
• Strong understanding of various metals, alloys, and heat treatment processes.
• Demonstrated experience in precision measurement and inspection techniques.
• Problem-solving skills for diagnosing and repairing tooling issues.

Bonus Qualifications

• Additional certifications or training

Job Titles That Should Apply

Tool and Die Maker, Die Maker, Mold Maker, Precision Machinist, CNC Tool Maker, Tooling Technician, Journeyman Tool Maker, Prototype Tool Maker, Metal Fabricator

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.