Tool Room Specialist

Job Title: Tool Room Specialist / Inventory Specialist

Job Description

The Tool Crib Specialist / Inventory Specialist is responsible for pre-staging all machine tools to support production operations, maintaining an organized and efficient tool crib, and driving continuous improvement initiatives. As the sole person in this department, you will manage tool inventory, perform etching and shadowing of tools, support machinists and CNC operators, and ensure that tools are available, properly maintained, and accurately tracked.

Responsibilities

• Pre-stage all machine tools and related equipment to support daily production and machining operations.
• Assist machinists and CNC operators in locating, retrieving, and returning tools and equipment as needed.
• Provide technical support and troubleshooting for tool-related issues to minimize downtime.
• Perform etching and shadowing of tools to ensure clear identification and organized storage.
• Inspect and measure tools and equipment for defects and wear, visually and using precision measuring instruments such as micrometers and calipers, and report damage or wear to supervisors.
• Dispose of damaged or defective tools and equipment, or coordinate their return to vendors.
• Write transmittals and coordinate the release of tools and equipment to vendors for repair.
• Prepare periodic inventory counts or maintain perpetual inventory of tools and equipment, manually or using computer systems.
• Organize and maintain the tool crib using continuous improvement and 5S principles to ensure a clean, efficient, and safe workspace.
• Collaborate closely with the production team to ensure smooth operations and timely tool availability.
• Communicate with suppliers to order new tools and supplies in line with production requirements.
• Evaluate and select vendors based on quality, cost, and delivery performance.
• Monitor and manage tool procurement budgets to support cost-effective operations.
• Perform tool grinding, use tool setters, and maintain effective tool organization, including VMI (Vendor Managed Inventory) activities.
• Use various computer software packages, including Excel and Word, to track inventory, generate reports, and manage documentation.
• Observe and promote safe work practices at all times on the manufacturing floor.
• Adapt to a fast-changing production environment, taking initiative to identify and complete tasks without waiting for detailed instructions.

Essential Skills

• Hands-on experience with tool crib operations, tool inspection, and inventory management.
• Proven experience with continuous improvement activities and strong knowledge of 5S methodology.
• Ability to read tooling drawings and set up tooling accurately.
• Proficient use of precision measuring instruments such as micrometers and calipers.
• Experience with tool grinding, tool setting, and organizing tools, including VMI experience.
• Strong vendor management skills, including ordering, returns, and repair coordination.
• Proficiency with computer software, including Microsoft Excel and Word.
• Strong teamwork and communication skills to effectively support machinists, CNC operators, and production staff.
• Ability to observe and follow safe work practices consistently.
• Capability to work independently as the sole person in the department and manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Understanding of various types of cutting tools, including drills, end mills, taps, reamers, inserts, and related tool holders, collets, and tool-holding systems.
• Familiarity 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 processes and stock level optimization.
• Experience working in a prototype or highly dynamic manufacturing environment where requirements frequently change.

Why Work Here?

You will join a fast-paced manufacturing environment where innovation, adaptability, and continuous improvement are highly valued. The role offers the opportunity to take ownership of a critical function, work closely with skilled production teams, and directly influence operational efficiency. You will work standard weekday hours, benefit from a structured schedule, and gain exposure to advanced machining and tooling practices in a dynamic, hands-on setting.

Work Environment

This role is based on the manufacturing floor, directly supporting the operations of a facility focused on building prototypes and managing frequently changing requirements. The environment is fast-paced and dynamic, with limited blueprints and evolving needs, so you will regularly adapt to new situations and priorities. You will work around machining equipment, tools, and inventory systems, and will use computers and standard office software for inventory and documentation. The schedule is Monday through Friday, 7:00 AM to 3:30 PM, with a 30-minute lunch break. The position requires an individual who is comfortable taking initiative, staying productive without constant direction, and maintaining safe work practices in an active production setting.

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

The pay range for this position is $26.00 - $32.00/hr.

Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.

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)

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

This position is anticipated to close on Nov 8, 2026.

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

About Aerotek

Aerotek® Inc. provides staffing and services solutions in manufacturing, logistics, construction, aviation, facilities and maintenance. We provide the expertise, solutions and people required to rise to the challenges of North American industry. Headquartered in Hanover, Md., Aerotek operates a unified network of over 200 offices across North America, supporting more than 18,000 clients each year. Aerotek is an Allegis Group company, the global leader in workforce and business solutions. To learn more, visit: Aerotek.com | 1-888-AEROTEK.

Aerotek offers weekly pay, employee benefits including medical, dental & vision, life insurance, health advocacy and employee assistance programs, a 401(k) plan, and employee discounts.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance:
Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector:
It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI):
We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.