Tool & Die Maker

Journeyman Tool & Die Maker

We are seeking a highly skilled Journeyman Tool & Die Maker to support gear manufacturing operations through the construction, maintenance, repair, and improvement of tooling, fixtures, gauges, and production equipment. In this role, you will work closely with Manufacturing Engineering, Quality, Maintenance, and Operations to ensure tooling meets production, safety, and quality requirements while supporting continuous improvement initiatives.

The ideal candidate is a certified Journeyman Tool & Die Maker with strong machining, troubleshooting, and precision measurement experience in a manufacturing environment.

Essential Responsibilities

• Build, repair, modify, and maintain tooling, fixtures, gauges, jigs, and production equipment used in gear manufacturing processes.
• Manufacture precision components utilizing manual and CNC machine tools including mills, lathes, grinders, EDM equipment, and related machinery.
• Troubleshoot tooling, fixture, and equipment issues impacting safety, quality, productivity, or delivery performance.
• Support gear-cutting operations by maintaining tooling used for hobbing, shaping, broaching, turning, grinding, heat treat, and assembly processes.
• Collaborate with Manufacturing Engineering to implement tooling improvements that enhance throughput, quality, and cost performance.
• Read and interpret engineering drawings, CAD models, GD&T requirements, and process specifications.
• Inspect and verify tooling and machined components using precision measuring instruments such as micrometers, calipers, indicators, bore gauges, and CMM equipment.
• Perform preventive maintenance and scheduled inspections on tooling and tool room equipment.
• Fabricate replacement components and emergency repair parts to minimize production downtime.
• Participate in root cause analysis and corrective action activities related to tooling failures and quality concerns.
• Maintain tooling records, repair documentation, and inventory control systems.
• Support Lean Manufacturing, 80/20, continuous improvement, and workplace organization initiatives.
• Follow all safety procedures, including machine guarding, lockout/tagout, and PPE requirements.

Professional Experience/Qualifications

• Experience in gear manufacturing, power transmission, precision machining, or industrial equipment manufacturing.
• CNC programming and setup experience.
• Experience with CAD/CAM software.
• Knowledge of gear manufacturing processes including hobbing, shaping, grinding, broaching, and assembly.
• Welding, fabrication, and machine repair experience.
• Lean Manufacturing or Continuous Improvement experience.
• Advanced blueprint reading and GD&T interpretation.
• Strong machining and fabrication capabilities.
• Knowledge of gear manufacturing tolerances and precision quality standards.
• Ability to prioritize multiple projects and respond effectively to production demands.
• Effective communication and teamwork skills.
• Commitment to quality, safety, and operational excellence.

Minimum Requirements

• Completion of a Tool & Die Maker Apprenticeship and possession of Journeyman certification.
• High School Diploma or GED.
• Minimum 5 years of tool room, machining, or tooling experience in a manufacturing environment.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, GD&T, and engineering specifications.
• Experience operating manual machining equipment including mills, lathes, grinders, and drill presses.
• Strong understanding of machining practices, cutting tools, tool steels, and heat treatment processes.
• Proficient in the use of precision measuring and inspection equipment.
• Demonstrated troubleshooting and problem-solving abilities.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and attention to detail.

Physical Requirements

• Lifting up to a maximum of 35 lbs.
• Occasionally bending and lifting at the knees.
• Twisting frequently at waist and shoulder levels.
• Standing continuously.
• Frequently reaching out in front of body.
• Sustained physical effort.
• Capable of wearing safety glasses with permanent side shields at all times.
• Capable of wearing steel-toed safety shoes at all times.
• Capable of wearing other PPE as required.
• Work may be repetitive in nature.
• Continuous mental/visual attention. Visual acuity to read directions and prints and to inspect parts closely to ensure they meet specifications.
• Manual dexterity required for precision assembly, measurement, and machining tasks.
• Ability to safely operate machine tools, cranes, and material handling equipment.

Working Conditions

Typical manufacturing setting with moveable, mechanical parts and/or equipment. In addition to normal manufacturing shop elements regarding temperatures (no air conditioning so warmer in summer months and cooler in winter months), dust, and noise levels (within required limits), working conditions may be somewhat disagreeable due to frequency of vibration (due to volume of parts) and exposure to higher-than-normal dust levels.

This job description sets forth only the major functions and does not limit the company's right to assign additional tasks or related duties or change such tasks/duties.