Toolmaker - 1st shift

City of Shakopee, MN; Northern (KY); Hybrid; USD 65,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

Emerson seeks a skilled Toolmaker to design, build, modify, and maintain tooling, fixtures, gauges, and specialized equipment for manufacturing operations.

You will program CNC and manual machines, interpret blueprints and CAD drawings, and collaborate with teams to ensure quality and continuous improvement while maintaining a safe, organized workspace.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED.
• Apprenticeship or Toolmaker experience is required.
• Ability to read blueprints and engineering specs.
• Experience setting up and operating manual and CNC machines (lathes, mills, grinders, welding).
• Experience programming CNC with MasterCAM, Esprit, and G/M code.
• SolidWorks or AutoCAD for tooling/fixture design.
• Interpret dimensions and machining requirements accurately.
• Use precision measuring instruments and adjust machining as needed.
• Strong math skills and teamwork.
• Safety compliance and continuous improvement mindset.

Responsibilities

• Design, build, modify, and maintain tooling, fixtures, gauges, and equipment.
• Set up and operate CNC and manual machines (lathes, mills, grinders).
• Select tooling, fixtures, materials, and methods to achieve results.
• Create CNC programs using MasterCAM, Esprit, and G/M code.
• Calculate speeds, feeds, depths, coolant, and cutting angles.
• Install fixtures and tombstones; resolve machining issues.
• Maintain weld and assembly fixtures and develop new tooling solutions.
• Inspect components and verify dimensions and tolerances.
• Support continuous improvement and lean manufacturing initiatives.
• Assist with setup, troubleshooting, and mentoring teammates.
• Perform preventive maintenance and uphold 6S standards.

Skills

Blueprint interpretation

Team collaboration

Problem solving

Mathematical proficiency

Education

High school diploma or GED

State-approved apprenticeship or Toolmaker experience

Tools

MasterCAM

Esprit

G/M code

SolidWorks

AutoCAD

CNC machining equipment

Precision measuring instruments

Job description

In This Role, Your Responsibilities Will Be:

Tooling & Manufacturing

• Design, build, modify, and maintain tooling, fixtures, gauges, and specialized manufacturing equipment.
• Set up and operate CNC and manual machining equipment, including lathes, mills, grinders, and related machinery.
• Select appropriate tooling, fixtures, materials, and machining methods to achieve required results.
• Create, edit, and optimize CNC programs using MasterCAM, Esprit, and G/M code.
• Calculate machining parameters such as speeds, feeds, depths of cut, coolant requirements, and cutting angles.
• Install and adjust fixtures and tombstones, set up workpieces, and resolve machining or dimensional issues.
• Maintain existing weld and assembly fixtures and develop new tooling solutions to support manufacturing needs

Blueprint & Design Work

• Interpret blueprints, CAD models, CNC files, engineering drawings, specifications, and sample parts.
• Determine dimensions, tolerances, and machining requirements.
• Create technical drawings and designs using SolidWorks or AutoCAD.
• Support the development of manufacturing processes, assembly methods, and tooling concepts.

Quality & Inspection

• Inspect finished components and assemblies to ensure compliance with design specifications.
• Verify dimensions, alignment, fit, and tolerance requirements.
• Use precision measuring instruments to evaluate product quality and implement machining corrections when necessary.

Continuous Improvement & Collaboration

• Inspect finished components and assemblies to ensure compliance with design specifications.
• Verify dimensions, alignment, fit, and tolerance requirements.
• Use precision measuring instruments to evaluate product quality and implement machining corrections when necessary.

Training & Team Support

• Assist machining personnel with setup preparation, troubleshooting, and technical guidance.
• Contribute to a collaborative team environment focused on continuous learning and improvement.

Safety & Maintenance

• Perform routine preventive maintenance on equipment and tooling as needed.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and efficient workspace using 6S and lean manufacturing principles.
• Follow all company safety policies, procedures, and applicable regulatory requirements.

Who You Are:

You consistently apply knowledge and experience to solve complex problems and identify practical solutions. You anticipate challenges and adjust your approach to achieve successful outcomes while maintaining attention to detail and quality. You build collaborative relationships across teams, share expertise with others, and work effectively toward common goals. You remain adaptable in changing environments and continuously seek opportunities to improve processes, performance, and results.

For This Role, You Will Need:

• High school diploma or GED.
• Completion of a state-approved apprenticeship program or equivalent experience as a Toolmaker.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, technical drawings, and engineering specifications.
• Demonstrated experience setting up and operating both manual and CNC machining equipment, including lathes, vertical mills, horizontal mills, grinders, and welding equipment.
• Experience programming CNC machines using MasterCAM, Esprit, and G/M code.
• Working knowledge of SolidWorks or AutoCAD for tooling and fixture design.
• Experience changing fixtures, setting up workpieces, and troubleshooting dimensional or process-related issues.
• Ability to use precision measuring instruments and make appropriate machining adjustments.
• Strong mathematical skills, including geometry, trigonometry, ratios, fractions, percentages, and related calculations.
• Ability to communicate effectively, follow instructions, and work collaboratively in a team environment.
• Commitment to workplace safety and compliance with all applicable policies and regulations.

Preferred Qualifications That Set You Apart:

• Experience designing tooling, fixtures, gauges, and automation support equipment.
• Advanced CNC programming and machining experience in a manufacturing environment.
• Experience supporting continuous improvement or lean manufacturing initiatives.
• Familiarity with complex assembly and welding fixture design.
• Ability to identify and implement process improvements that enhance quality, safety, and productivity.
• Experience mentoring or providing technical guidance to manufacturing team members.

Our Culture & Commitment to You:

At Emerson, we prioritize a workplace where every employee is valued, respected, and empowered to grow. We foster an environment that encourages innovation, collaboration, and diverse perspectives—because we know that great ideas come from great teams. Our commitment to ongoing career development and growing an inclusive culture ensures you have the support to thrive. Whether through mentorship, training, or leadership opportunities, we invest in your success so you can make a lasting impact. We believe diverse teams, working together are key to driving growth and delivering business results.

We recognize the importance of employee wellbeing.

• We prioritize providing flexible, competitive benefits plans to meet you and your family’s physical, mental, financial, and social needs.
• We provide a variety of medical insurance plans, with dental and vision coverage, Employee Assistance Program, 401(k), tuition reimbursement, employee resource groups, recognition, and much more.
• Our culture offers flexible time off plans, including paid parental leave (maternal and paternal), vacation and holiday leave.