Tooling and Die Machinist

KI USA; Berea (KY); On-site; USD 30,000 - 44,000; Full time

Job summary

KI USA in Berea, KY is seeking a skilled Tool & Die Machinist to read blueprints, set up and operate a range of manual and CNC equipment, and produce precision metal parts. You will cut, bore, shape, and finish components to very tight tolerances and assemble/test finished tools with quality and reliability in mind.

The role requires 3–5+ years of tool and die experience, the ability to interpret drawings, and the strength to handle heavy equipment as part of a collaborative team focused on tool

Qualifications

• 3–5+ years of tool and die machinist experience.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints and design schematics.
• Ability to lift heavy objects and operate large machinery.

Responsibilities

• Read blueprints: Interpret complex engineering drawings, CAD files, and technical schematics.
• Operate machinery: Set up and run manual and CNC lathes, milling machines, surface grinders, and EDMs.
• Craft and shape: Cut, bore, shape, and polish metal parts to tolerances as fine as .0001 of an inch.
• Assemble and test: Fit and assemble parts using bolts, pins, and welding, then run tests to check tool performance.
• Maintain and repair: Troubleshoot, dismantle, and fix broken or worn-out dies and molds to minimize downtime.
• Work with engineering, machine maintenance, quality, and production teams to improve tool reliability and part quality.

Skills

Mechanical aptitude

Math proficiency

Precision measuring

Tools

Micrometers

Calipers

Computerized measuring tools

Job description

Tool & Die Machinist builds, repairs, and maintains precision metal forms, cutting tools, dies, molds, jigs, and fixtures. Sets up and operates a variety of computer-controlled and mechanically controlled equipment to produce precision metal parts, instruments, and tools.

Responsibilities

• Read blueprints: Interpret complex engineering drawings, CAD files, and technical schematics.


• Operate machinery: Set up and run manual and CNC lathes, milling machines, surface grinders, and electrical discharge machines (EDMs).


• Craft and shape: Cut, bore, shape, and polish metal parts to tolerances as fine as .0001 of an inch.


• Assemble and test: Fit and assemble parts using bolts, pins, and welding, then run tests to check tool performance.


• Maintain and repair: Troubleshoot, dismantle, and fix broken or worn‑out dies and molds to minimize factory downtime.


• Work with engineering, machine maintenance, quality, and production teams to improve tool reliability and part quality.

Qualifications

• 3–5+ years of tool and die machinist experience.


• Ability to read and interpret blueprints and design schematics.


• Ability to lift heavy objects and operate large machinery.

Required Skills

• Mechanical aptitude: Deep knowledge of shop practices, metal types, and heat‑treating processes.


• Math proficiency: Strong skills in 2D and 3D geometry and trigonometry for precise dimension checks.


• Precision measuring: Expertise with micrometers, calipers, and computerized measuring tools.

Preferred Skills

• Growth mindset, collaborative, mentoring and accountability focused leadership mentality.

Pay range and compensation package

[Pay range or salary or compensation]

Equal Opportunity Statement

[Include a statement on commitment to diversity and inclusivity.]