Toolmaker

Tenneco Inc.; Burlington (IA); On-site; USD 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Tenneco Inc. in Iowa is seeking a skilled Tool Maker to manufacture, repair, and modify precision tools, dies, jigs, fixtures, gauges, and other tooling used in production operations.

You will read engineering drawings, operate manual and CNC machines, and ensure tooling meets quality and dimensional specifications. Strong blueprint reading, GD&T, and experience with CNC programming are important for success.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required; technical training or associate degree preferred.
• 8+ years of toolmaking or related manufacturing experience preferred.
• Strong blueprint reading and GD&T knowledge.
• Experience with CNC machining and tooling is preferred.

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

CNC machining and programming

Quality inspection

Troubleshooting

Mathematical and measurement skills

Manufacturing or machine shop

PPE compliance

GD&T knowledge

Education

High school diploma or GED

Technical training / apprenticeship / associate degree

Tools

CNC programming software

Job description

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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
• CNC machining and programming
• Quality inspection
• Troubleshooting
• Mathematical and measurement skills
• Manufacturing or machine shop environment.
• Exposure to machinery, noise, metalworking fluids, and production operations.
• Use of required personal protective equipment (PPE).