Tool and Die Specialist IV - 1st Shift

Tooling Specialist IV - Progressive Die Technician for 1st Shift

Howmet Fastening Systems (HFS) is seeking a Tooling Specialist IV - Progressive Die Technician for 1st Shift at our aerospace manufacturing facility in Fullerton, CA location.

Prepares, sets up and installs large multi-station progressive dyes into all types and sizes of punch presses to form blank or piece metal parts. Technician will be held to established production and quality standards. Incumbent will have control to make some adjustments to the process or machine after tasks are assigned.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Independently makes complete set up of multi-station progressive dyes and sets up all types of punch presses.
• Sets up compound and progressive dyes for all types of punch presses when required.
• Works from prints, charts, sketches or oral instruction to rework or convert existing dyes or stations to produce new parts.
• Tests to assure proper die clearance and uses templates to positions several dyes at once.
• Sets and checks clearances between punches and dyes and sets punch and anvil lengths to chart.
• Reads prints and uses precision measuring instruments including micrometers, calipers and depth micrometers to check parts for conformance to specifications.
• After setup checks parts against drawings to verify compliance for first article.
• Performs S.P.C. charting as required.
• Polishes dies, anvils, punches and other details to produce a high-quality part.
• Troubleshoots strip from progressive dye and performs all repairs to eliminate progressive dye problems.
• Follows all safety procedures including but not limited to Lock/Tag/Verify.
• Will train Dye Setters and Operators as necessary or required.
• Parts to be lifted and/or transported may weigh up to 30 lbs.
• Keeps work area clean (and equipment), safe and in an orderly fashion on a daily basis.
• Performs other tasks of equal or lesser skill as required.

Basic Qualifications:

• Minimum 4 years related experience in a repair and maintenance of progressive dies, or equivalent previous experience with a fastener manufacturing company.
• Must have knowledge of tool room equipment including mills, lathes and grinders
• Ability to trouble-shoot and solve problems of the most advanced level.
• Must possess a working knowledge of ferrous and non-ferrous metals and their alloys.
• Ability to read and understand manufacturers drawings, catalogs, and other written or verbal instructions.
• Ability to read and interpret product prints.
• Ability to use inspection gages and instruments
• Employees must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Verification of employment eligibility will be required at the time of hire. Visa sponsorship is not available for this position

Physical Demands:

• Must be able to lift/move 30 lbs. (may not exceed per EHS policies)
• Must be able to stand for long periods of time

Preferred Qualifications:

• 5 - 7 years' experience in machinery operations and progressive dies
• High school diploma or GED

Benefits/Salary:

The position includes competitive wages and a comprehensive benefits package available day one of hire, including health insurance (medical, dental, vision), excellent 401k matching program, paid holidays and vacation. Howmet Aerospace curates a strong working environment through opportunities for career progression, community engagement activities, and flexible schedules contingent upon role and location. The salary range for this position is $24.70- $41.99.

About Us

Howmet Aerospace Inc. (NYSE: HWM), headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is a leading global provider of advanced engineered solutions for the aerospace and transportation industries. Our primary businesses focus on jet engine components, aerospace fastening systems, titanium structural parts and forged wheels. With $8.3 Billion in revenue in 2025, our products play a crucial role in enabling fuel efficiency and lightweighting, contributing to our customers' success and making a positive impact on the world.

About the Team

Howmet Fastening Systems (HFS) is a business unit of Howmet Aerospace, headquartered in Torrance, California. We hold the number one global position in aerospace fastening systems, and we're the North American leader in commercial transportation fasteners. Our high-tech, multi-material fastening systems are found nose to tail on aircraft and aerospace engines. Our products are also critical components of industrial gas turbines, automobiles, commercial transportation vehicles, and construction and industrial equipment.