Toolmaker

Top Prospect Group; Waterbury (CT); On-site; USD 45,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

Top Prospect Group in Watertown, CT is seeking a Toolmaker with a strong machining background to build, repair, and maintain carbide and steel tooling. You will read blueprints, interpret tolerances, and set up CNC and manual grinders to produce high-precision tooling.

The role requires careful inspection of finished tooling with precision instruments, the ability to work independently or in a cell, and commitment to safety and continuous improvement in a precision manufacturing environment.

Qualifications

• Previous experience as a Tool Grinder, Toolmaker, Precision Grinder, or similar precision machining role.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and blueprints.
• Experience operating CNC and manual grinding equipment.
• Strong understanding of precision measuring instruments and close-tolerance machining.
• Mechanical aptitude with strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.

Responsibilities

• Grind carbide and steel tooling components to precise tolerances and specifications.
• Review blueprints and calculate required angles using geometric and trigonometric principles.
• Set up computerized grinding programs and machine pivot points.
• Operate Studer, Combi Tech, and Supertec grinding machines.
• Operate manual ID and OD grinders along with other tool room equipment.
• Use lathes to turn and diamond polish dies to required finishes.
• Repair production dies and tooling by removing chips, grooves, and worn areas.
• Perform drilling, cutting, grinding, boring, and other machining operations required for tooling repair.
• Inspect finished tooling using precision measuring equipment to verify dimensions and tolerances.

Skills

Precision machining

Reading blueprints

Problem solving

Independence

Teamwork

Education

State-certified apprenticeship

Tools

Studer grinding machines

Combi Tech grinding machines

Supertec grinding machines

CNC grinding

Manual grinding

Lathes

Job description

Job Title: Toolmaker

Type: Direct Hire

Location: Watertown, CT

Salary: Depending on Experience

Schedule: First Shift | Monday–Friday

Position Overview

The Tool Grinder is responsible for building, repairing, and maintaining carbide and steel tooling used in production. This position requires experience grinding precision tooling to close tolerances while interpreting blueprints and utilizing a variety of manual and CNC tool room equipment. The ideal candidate has a strong machining background and takes pride in producing high-quality precision tooling.

Responsibilities

• Grind carbide and steel tooling components to precise tolerances and specifications.
• Review blueprints and calculate required angles using geometric and trigonometric principles.
• Set up computerized grinding programs and machine pivot points.
• Operate Studer, Combi Tech, and Supertec grinding machines.
• Operate manual ID and OD grinders along with other tool room equipment.
• Use lathes to turn and diamond polish dies to required finishes.
• Repair production dies and tooling by removing chips, grooves, and worn areas.
• Perform drilling, cutting, grinding, boring, and other machining operations required for tooling repair.
• Inspect finished tooling using precision measuring equipment to verify dimensions and tolerances.
• Work independently or in a manufacturing cell/team environment.
• Maintain a clean and safe work area while following all company safety procedures.
• Assist with Wire EDM and Sinker EDM operations as needed.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Previous experience as a Tool Grinder, Toolmaker, Precision Grinder, or similar precision machining role.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and blueprints.
• Experience operating CNC and manual grinding equipment.
• Strong understanding of precision measuring instruments and close-tolerance machining.
• Mechanical aptitude with strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• State-certified apprenticeship is preferred but not required.

Preferred Experience

• Carbide tooling and die grinding.
• Manual and CNC ID/OD grinding.
• Studer, Combi Tech, and Supertec grinding equipment.
• Lathe operation and diamond polishing.
• Wire EDM and Sinker EDM experience.
• Tool room manufacturing environment.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand, walk, bend, kneel, crouch, and reach throughout the workday.
• Frequently use hands for handling precision tooling and measuring equipment.
• Lift up to 35 pounds.
• Work around moving machinery, airborne particles, vibration, and typical manufacturing conditions.

Work Environment

This position is based in a precision manufacturing and tool room environment. Candidates should be comfortable working around machining equipment while maintaining a strong commitment to quality, safety, and continuous improvement.

Company Overview

Founded in 2010, Top Prospect Group was created with a focus on matching high-quality candidates with top employers while fostering an environment where success is shared by all. In 2023, the company was acquired by HW Staffing Solutions, expanding its service offerings to include technology, engineering, manufacturing, and professional staffing solutions.

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