Tool Maker - Rockford Area

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

Job summary

The Pivot Group Network is seeking a Tool Maker for opportunities in Rockford, MI. You will set up and operate lathes, mills, grinders, and EDMs, interpret blueprints, and design fixtures for production.

You will work with engineers to optimize tool design and ensure precision throughout manufacturing processes. Ideal candidates have a recognized Tool & Die apprenticeship or equivalent, 5+ years as a Journeyman Tool Maker, and strong GD&T and measurement skills.

Qualifications

• Completion of a recognized Tool & Die apprenticeship program or equivalent experience.
• Minimum of 5 years experience as a Journeyman Tool Maker in a manufacturing environment.
• Proficient in reading and interpreting blueprints, schematics, and technical drawings.
• Demonstrated expertise in operating manual and CNC machine tools (mills, lathes, grinders, EDMs).
• Strong understanding of GD&T principles and their application.
• Ability to perform precision measurements using various inspection tools.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate a variety of machine tools such as lathes, milling machines, grinders, and EDM machines.
• Interpret blueprints, sketches, and 3D models to determine dimensions and tolerances of finished tools.
• Design and fabricate jigs, fixtures, gauges, and other tools for production processes.
• Perform precision measurements using instruments like micrometers, calipers, and optical comparators.
• Troubleshoot, repair, and maintain existing tooling to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
• Select appropriate materials and heat treatments for tool components based on application requirements.
• Collaborate with engineers and production staff to optimize tool design for manufacturability and efficiency.

Skills

Blueprints reading

CNC tools

GD&T

Precision measurement

Tooling design

Troubleshoot tooling

Education

Tool & Die apprenticeship

Tools

Manual/CNC machine tools (mills, lathes, grinders, EDMs)

Job description

Tool Maker | Rockford, MI

Salary Range: $54,000 - $86,000

Are you a forward-thinking 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 in the manufacturing community. We partner with companies in Rockford seeking skilled 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 collaborating with manufacturing firms in Rockford that are seeking skilled Tool Makers. These organizations are dedicated to maintaining high standards and are looking for professionals who can contribute effectively. By joining our network, you position yourself for opportunities aligned with your career goals.

Key Responsibilities

• Set up and operate a variety of machine tools such as lathes, milling machines, grinders, and EDM machines.
• Interpret blueprints, sketches, and 3D models to determine dimensions and tolerances of finished tools.
• Design and fabricate jigs, fixtures, gauges, and other tools for production processes.
• Perform precision measurements using instruments like micrometers, calipers, and optical comparators.
• Troubleshoot, repair, and maintain existing tooling to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
• Select appropriate materials and heat treatments for tool components based on application requirements.
• Collaborate with engineers and production staff to optimize tool design for manufacturability and efficiency.

Recommended Qualifications

• Completion of a recognized Tool & Die apprenticeship program or equivalent experience.
• Minimum of 5 years experience as a Journeyman Tool Maker in a manufacturing environment.
• Proficient in reading and interpreting blueprints, schematics, and technical drawings.
• Demonstrated expertise in operating manual and CNC machine tools (mills, lathes, grinders, EDMs).
• Strong understanding of GD&T principles and their application.
• Ability to perform precision measurements using various inspection tools.

Bonus Qualifications

• Additional certifications or training

Job Titles That Should Apply

Tool & Die Maker, Precision Machinist, CNC Tool Maker, Mold Maker, Die Maker, Jig & Fixture Builder, Model Maker, Prototype Tool Maker, Machinist Tool Room, Tooling Technician

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.

If you're ready to take the next step in your career and connect with a firm that values fit over speed, The Pivot Group Network offers resources to support your search—market insights, resume feedback, and interview preparation. As our partnerships grow, we'll reach out with opportunities aligned with your goals. Thank you for considering this approach to career advancement.