Toolmaker

Tenneco; Burlington (IA); On-site; USD 60,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

Tenneco seeks a Tool Maker to manufacture, repair, maintain, and modify precision tooling such as dies, jigs, fixtures, gauges, and related components used in production.

You will read drawings, operate manual and CNC machines, and ensure tooling meets strict quality and dimensional specifications. Collaborate with engineering and production teams to improve tooling performance and processes while following safety standards.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED; technical training or associate degree in machining/toolmaking preferred.
• 8+ years of toolmaking, machining, or related manufacturing experience preferred.
• Strong blueprint reading and GD&T knowledge.
• Experience with CNC programming and machining preferred.
• Proficiency with precision measuring equipment.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and stand for extended periods.

Responsibilities

• Read and interpret blueprints, engineering drawings, CAD models, and specifications to determine tooling requirements.
• Set up and operate manual and CNC machine tools, including lathes, milling machines, grinders, drill presses, and EDM equipment.
• Manufacture, assemble, repair, and modify precision tools, fixtures, dies, molds, and gauges.
• Inspect completed tooling using micrometers, calipers, gauges, and other precision measuring instruments.
• Troubleshoot tooling issues and perform maintenance to minimize production downtime.
• Maintain accurate records of tooling repairs, modifications, and preventative maintenance activities.
• Work closely with engineering and production teams to improve tooling performance and manufacturing processes.
• Follow all safety procedures and quality standards.

Skills

Precision machining

Blueprint reading

CNC machining and programming

Tool and die repair

Quality inspection

Troubleshooting

Attention to detail

Mathematical and measurement skills

Education

High school diploma or GED; technical training or associate degree in machining/toolmaking preferred

Job description

Job Summary

The Tool Maker is responsible for manufacturing, repairing, maintaining, and modifying precision tools, dies, jigs, fixtures, gauges, and other tooling used in production operations. This role requires the ability to read engineering drawings, operate manual and CNC machine tools, and ensure all tooling meets quality and dimensional specifications. Typical toolmaker duties include fabricating tooling components, operating lathes, mills, grinders, and CNC equipment, and verifying accuracy using precision measuring instruments.

Key Responsibilities

• Read and interpret blueprints, engineering drawings, CAD models, and specifications to determine tooling requirements.
• Set up and operate manual and CNC machine tools, including lathes, milling machines, grinders, drill presses, and EDM equipment.
• Manufacture, assemble, repair, and modify precision tools, fixtures, dies, molds, and gauges.
• Inspect completed tooling using micrometers, calipers, gauges, and other precision measuring instruments.
• Troubleshoot tooling issues and perform maintenance to minimize production downtime.
• Maintain accurate records of tooling repairs, modifications, and preventative maintenance activities.
• Work closely with engineering and production teams to improve tooling performance and manufacturing processes.
• Follow all safety procedures and quality standards.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required; technical training, apprenticeship, or associate degree in machining/toolmaking preferred.
• 8+ years of toolmaking, machining, or related manufacturing experience preferred.
• Strong blueprint reading and GD&T knowledge.
• Experience with CNC programming and machining preferred.
• Proficiency with precision measuring equipment.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and stand for extended periods.

Skills

• Precision machining
• Blueprint reading
• CNC machining and programming
• Tool and die repair
• Quality inspection
• Troubleshooting
• Attention to detail
• Mathematical and measurement skills

Work Environment

• Manufacturing or machine shop environment.
• Exposure to machinery, noise, metalworking fluids, and production operations.
• Use of required personal protective equipment (PPE).

Equal Opportunity Employer