Toolroom Machinist Apprentice (Die Making Track)

Job Description

Job Description

A day in this apprenticeship

On second shift in Chesterfield, MI, you’ll step into a hands-on toolroom where experienced Tool and Die Makers show you the ropes. You’ll review prints together, choose materials, plan machining steps, and then head to the equipment to bring components to life. As your skills grow, you’ll measure, fit, polish, and help assemble dies that keep production running smoothly—all while learning industry best practices in a real manufacturing environment.

• Partner with Tool and Die Makers to fabricate, modify, and repair tooling and die components.
• Interpret blueprints, part prints, and engineered drawings with guidance to understand dimensions and tolerances.
• Support machining plans: select materials, identify tooling, and determine the proper sequence of operations.
• Lay out and mark workpieces, then set up and operate manual machines under supervision—mills, lathes, surface grinders, drill presses, band saws, plus ID/OD grinders.
• Apply machining math (speed, feed, depth of cut), monitor machines for irregularities or out-of-tolerance conditions, and report issues promptly.
• Verify part conformance using micrometers, calipers, height gauges, and other precision instruments.
• Assist with die assembly and bench work (fitting, polishing, minor adjustments) and stay mindful of steel inventories and material selection.
• Keep the toolroom organized per 5S and Lean standards; follow safety, environmental, and quality procedures and report hazards.

• Location: Chesterfield, MI
• Work Arrangement: On-site
• Schedule: 2nd Shift, Monday–Friday
• Pay: $18–$20/hr
• Employment Type: Full-time / Hourly

• Mechanical curiosity and a genuine interest in precision machining.
• Ability to read basic prints and use measuring tools with coaching.
• Foundational knowledge of machining concepts.
• Eagerness to learn tool and die methods and practices.
• Comfort with hand tools and common shop equipment.
• Strong attention to detail and a quality-first mindset.
• Ability to follow detailed instructions and procedures.
• Safety awareness and good judgment.

• Technical coursework or training in machining or manufacturing.

• Extended periods of standing and walking during the shift.
• Frequent bending, stooping, kneeling, crouching, and reaching.
• Lift, carry, push, and pull up to 50 lbs, with or without reasonable accommodation.
• Repetitive hand, wrist, and arm motions.
• Work near industrial machining equipment and moving mechanical parts.
• PPE required: safety glasses, gloves, hearing protection, and safety footwear.

These demands reflect what’s needed to perform the essential job functions, with or without reasonable accommodation.

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• 401(k) with company match and potential profit sharing
• Paid time off and paid holidays
• Health Savings Account contributions for eligible plans
• Company-paid life insurance and short-term disability coverage
• Paid parental leave
• Employee Assistance Program and mental health resources
• Virtual healthcare resources
• Tuition reimbursement and development opportunities
• Additional wellness, financial, and employee programs

Benefits are subject to applicable plan terms and eligibility requirements. Explore our full benefits and interactive resources:

MacLean-Fogg is a fourth-generation, family-owned American manufacturer founded in 1925 and headquartered in Mundelein, Illinois. We design and build engineered components and solutions for automotive and industrial markets through a portfolio that includes MacLean-Fogg Component Solutions, OMCO, Mallard Manufacturing, and Threadstrong. Our values—Integrity, People, Customers, and Stewardship—guide how we invest in our people, our technology, and our communities.

After a conditional offer, this position requires a pre-employment drug screen. Testing and employment decisions are administered consistent with applicable law.

MacLean-Fogg and its affiliated companies are equal opportunity employers. We provide equal employment opportunities to qualified applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, genetic information, military or veteran status, marital status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

If you need a reasonable accommodation to apply, complete an assessment, or participate in the hiring process, contact View email address on ziprecruiter.com.