05021 - Tool & Die Maker - Manual Machining

Tool & Die Maker – Manual Machining

Salary: $68,000–$100,000 per year, based on experience
Employment Type: Full-Time, Direct Hire

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced Tool & Die Maker with a strong background in traditional manual machining, tool building, fixture fabrication, and tool and die repair .

This is a hands-on tool shop position for someone with proven experience building, modifying, repairing, and maintaining tools, dies, molds, jigs, and fixtures . The ideal candidate has broad manual machining skills and understands the complete toolmaking process—not just CNC machine operation.

If you are an experienced Toolmaker or Tool & Die Maker who can work from blueprints, troubleshoot tooling problems, perform precision machining, and build or repair tooling with minimal supervision, this may be a strong fit.

What You'll Do

• Use manual machining equipment to build and modify fixtures, tools, and machine components
• Build, repair, modify, and maintain tools, dies, molds, jigs, and fixtures
• Disassemble tooling and fixtures, complete necessary repairs, and reassemble components
• Read and interpret blueprints, schematics, and technical drawings
• Perform drilling, tapping, deburring, and other manual machining operations
• Perform welding and fabrication work as required
• Inspect completed tools and dies for damage, imperfections, fit, and proper operation
• Plan machining and repair processes and determine appropriate next steps
• Adjust machining parameters as necessary to produce parts within specifications
• Use precision measuring instruments including micrometers, calipers, height gauges, scales, and tape measures
• Test and inspect equipment, tooling, and machines to ensure proper setup and operation
• Troubleshoot mechanical and tooling issues
• Maintain tools, equipment, and a clean, organized work area
• Work independently and collaboratively with other members of the shop team

Required Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Tool & Die Maker or Toolmaker
• 5+ years of experience machining, building, modifying, or repairing tools, dies, jigs, and fixtures
• Strong hands-on manual machining experience
• Thorough knowledge of machine shop practices, machining principles, and machine tool operations
• Ability to read and understand blueprints, schematics, and technical drawings
• Experience using precision measuring tools such as micrometers, calipers, and height gauges
• Working knowledge of shop mathematics, handbook formulas, and trigonometry
• Strong mechanical aptitude
• Welding and fabrication skills
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving abilities
• Excellent attention to detail
• Ability to work independently or as part of a team
• Good verbal and interpersonal communication skills

Ideal Background

The strongest candidates will have a traditional, hands-on tool and die / toolroom machining background with experience building and repairing tooling rather than experience limited primarily to CNC production machining.

Relevant experience may include work as a:

• Tool & Die Maker
• Toolmaker
• Journeyman Tool & Die Maker
• Tooling Technician
• Jig & Fixture Maker
• Manual Machinist with extensive tool and die experience

This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced Tool & Die Maker who enjoys hands-on machining, fabrication, troubleshooting, and building or repairing precision tooling.