Tool Crib Specialist Aerospace

Tool Crib, Inventory Specialist

The Tool Crib, Inventory Specialist plays a key role in supporting manufacturing operations by pre-staging machine tools, ensuring all required tooling is available and ready to install, and maintaining an organized, efficient tool crib. This position works closely with machinists, CNC operators, and production teams to keep operations running smoothly, supports continuous improvement initiatives, and manages tool inventory, procurement, and documentation with a high level of accuracy and technical expertise.

Responsibilities

• Pre-stage all machine tools required for production so they are available and ready for installation before use.
• Assist machinists and CNC operators in locating, retrieving, and returning tools and equipment efficiently.
• Provide technical support and troubleshooting for tool-related issues to minimize downtime on the shop floor.
• Collaborate with the production team to ensure smooth operations and timely availability of tools and related equipment.
• Communicate with suppliers to order new tools, components, and supplies as needed.
• Evaluate and select vendors based on quality, cost, and delivery performance, and monitor vendor relationships.
• Monitor and manage tool procurement budgets, ensuring cost-effective purchasing and inventory levels.
• Perform tool grinding and operate tool setting equipment to ensure tools are properly prepared for use.
• Organize and maintain the tool crib, including visual management and VMI (Vendor Managed Inventory) processes.
• Move materials and tools safely and efficiently to support production activities.
• Track parts, tools, and components, and perform light assembly related to tooling and fixtures as required.
• Dispose of damaged or defective tools and equipment or coordinate their return to vendors.
• Inspect and measure tools and equipment for defects and wear, using micrometers, calipers, and other precision instruments, and report damage or wear to supervisors.
• Write transmittals and documentation for the release of tools and equipment to vendors for repair or refurbishment.
• Prepare periodic inventory counts or maintain perpetual inventory records of tools and equipment, either manually or using computer systems.
• Observe and enforce safe work practices in all tool crib and shop floor activities.
• Support and participate in continuous improvement initiatives, including 5S activities and process optimization in the tool crib and related areas.
• Maintain accurate records and reports using computer software, including spreadsheets and documents.
• Adapt to frequent changes in tooling needs and production priorities in a fast-paced environment and take initiative without waiting for detailed instructions.

Essential Skills

• Demonstrated continuous improvement experience, including hands-on involvement with 5S practices.
• Ability to read and interpret tooling drawings and related technical documentation.
• Experience setting up tooling and ensuring it is ready for use in machining and CNC operations.
• Proficiency using precision measuring instruments such as micrometers, calipers, and related gauges.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and the ability to work with hand tools and ground support equipment.
• Ability to read and understand blueprints and fabrication-related documentation.
• Experience moving materials, tracking parts, and performing light assembly tasks in a manufacturing or fabrication environment.
• Strong team collaboration skills and effective verbal and written communication abilities.
• Ability to inspect tools and equipment for defects and wear, both visually and using precision measurement tools.
• Capability to prepare and maintain inventory records, including periodic and perpetual inventory of tools and equipment.
• Proficiency in using computer software packages, including Excel and Word, for documentation, tracking, and reporting.
• Commitment to safe work practices and adherence to safety procedures in a manufacturing environment.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, changing environment and take initiative without constant supervision.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Understanding of various types of cutting tools, including drills, end mills, taps, reamers, and inserts.
• Knowledge of tool holders, collets, and other tool-holding systems used in machining and CNC operations.
• Experience with tool grinding, tool setting, and tool organization within a tool crib or similar environment.
• VMI (Vendor Managed Inventory) experience or familiarity with vendor-managed tool programs.
• Proficiency with inventory management software and systems, such as ERP systems or dedicated tool management software.
• Knowledge of techniques for tracking and managing tool inventory, including reordering strategies and stock level optimization.
• Experience evaluating vendors based on quality, cost, and delivery performance.
• Ability to write clear transmittals and documentation for tools and equipment sent out for repair or service.

Why Work Here?

You will join a dynamic manufacturing environment where innovation and continuous improvement are part of everyday work. The team values initiative, collaboration, and practical problem-solving, giving you the opportunity to directly influence how efficiently operations run. You will gain hands-on experience with advanced tooling, evolving processes, and prototype work, offering strong opportunities to grow your technical skills and broaden your experience in a fast-paced, production-focused setting.

Work Environment

This role is based on the manufacturing floor, directly supporting the operations of a production facility that focuses heavily on prototype and evolving work. Because many projects are in development, tooling needs and priorities change frequently, creating a fast-paced environment where flexibility and adaptability are essential. You will work closely with machinists, CNC operators, and production staff, often without fully established blueprints, and will be expected to take initiative rather than wait for detailed instructions. The standard schedule is Monday through Friday from 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., with a 30-minute lunch break. The environment includes typical manufacturing floor conditions, such as active machinery, material handling, and frequent movement around the facility, and requires adherence to all safety procedures and appropriate industrial attire and protective equipment as required by shop-floor operations.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Middle River, MD.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $26.00 - $32.00/hr. Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Middle River, MD.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on May 31, 2026.