Tool Maker - Newaygo Area

the-pivot-group-careers; Michigan; On-site; USD 57,000 - 89,000; Full time

Job summary

The Pivot Group Network is partnering with Newaygo area manufacturers to recruit Tool Makers. This role focuses on precision tooling, dies and molds, with an emphasis on quality and long-term career growth.

You will work with engineers and production teams, set up and operate lathes, mills, and grinders, read blueprints, and verify tools with precision instruments. Compensation ranges from $57,000 to $89,000 annually, depending on experience.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in setup and operation of manual machining equipment.
• Ability to read complex blueprints, schematics, and drawings.
• Proficiency with precision measuring instruments like micrometers and calipers.
• Solid understanding of GD&T and tooling diagnostics.
• Experience with heat treatment processes and tooling maintenance.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate lathes, mills, shapers, and grinders.
• Read blueprints and determine specifications and dimensions.
• Design and fabricate jigs, fixtures, gauges and cutting tools.
• Inspect tools using precision measuring instruments.
• Troubleshoot and repair tooling to ensure performance.
• Perform heat treatment processes on tools.
• Collaborate with engineers to improve tool design and efficiency.

Skills

Manual machining

Blueprint reading

Precision measurement

GD&T

Troubleshooting

Heat treatment

Tools

CAD/CAM software

CMM/metrology

Lean tools

Job description

Tool Maker | Newaygo, MI

Salary Range: $57,000 - $89,000 depending on experience

Are you a meticulous 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 fostering meaningful relationships and supporting career growth. We are collaborating with companies in Newaygo 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 are working with companies in Newaygo that are adding Tool Makers to their teams. These organizations value quality over speed in hiring. By connecting with us, you position yourself for opportunities that align with what you're looking for.

Key Responsibilities

• Set up and operate a variety of machine tools such as lathes, milling machines, shapers, and grinders.
• Read and interpret blueprints, schematics, and detailed drawings to determine specifications and dimensions.
• Design and fabricate jigs, fixtures, gauges, and cutting tools for production processes.
• Inspect finished tools for conformance to specifications using precision measuring instruments.
• Troubleshoot, repair, and maintain existing tooling and dies to ensure optimal performance.
• Perform heat treatment processes on tools to achieve desired hardness and durability.
• Collaborate with engineers and production staff to improve tool design and manufacturing efficiency.

Recommended Qualifications

• Proven experience in the setup and operation of manual machining equipment (lathes, mills, grinders).
• Ability to interpret and work from complex blueprints, schematics, and technical drawings.
• Proficiency in using precision measuring instruments (micrometers, calipers, gauges).
• Strong understanding of GD&T principles and application.
• Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot and diagnose tooling issues.
• Experience with heat treatment processes and material properties.

Bonus Qualifications

• Experience with CAD/CAM software for tool design and programming.
• Certification in a specialized machining process (e.g., EDM, CNC programming).
• Ability to perform quality inspections using CMM or other metrology tools.
• Experience with lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement.

Job Titles That Should Apply

Tool and Die Maker, Die Maker, Mold Maker, Precision Machinist, CNC Tool Maker, 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.