Lead Prototype & Tooling Technician
Precision Prototyping
Take new designs from print to physical part. Responsible for the setup and execution of prototype runs on our Crippa, Unison, and Alpine CNC benders.
Tooling Maintenance & PM
Develop and execute a preventative maintenance program for all production tooling. Includes cleaning, identifying wear patterns, and performing precision adjustments to ensure "first-time-right" quality.
Technical Troubleshooting
Support the production floor by diagnosing and resolving issues with end-forming machines and bender tooling setups.
Fabrication & Welding
Perform high-quality MIG and TIG welding for prototype assembly and tooling repair.
Tooling Inventory
Manage the organization and storage of bender die sets and end-forming collets/tools.
CNC Bending Knowledge
- Hands-on experience with multi-stack or electric benders (specifically Crippa, Unison, or Alpine software and hardware).
Fabrication Skills
- Proficiency in MIG and TIG welding is required, specifically on thin-wall stainless or aluminized steel common in exhaust systems.
End-Forming Knowledge
- Experience with segmented expanders, ram formers, or rotary end-forming machinery.
Maintenance Mindset
- Strong mechanical aptitude for tool-and-die work, including the use of precision measurement tools (calipers, micrometers, etc.).
Education & Experience
- High School Diploma or GED required. A technical degree or certification in Tool & Die, Precision Machining, or Industrial Maintenance is highly preferred.
- Minimum of 5 years in a metal fabrication environment as well as machine setup/programming. Proven track record in MIG/TIG welding, specifically on thin-wall stainless steel (0.049" – 0.065" wall thickness).
Physical Demands
- Must be able to lift and maneuver tooling and die sets weighing up to 50 lbs.
- Ability to bend, stoop, and reach into CNC machine cabinets for maintenance and setup.
- Comfortable standing for 8–10 hours per shift in a manufacturing environment.
ITAR / Legal Requirements Compliance
This position requires access to information or items that are subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). Requirement: All applicants must be a "U.S. Person" as defined by ITAR (U.S. Citizen, lawful permanent resident/Green Card holder, or have asylum/refugee status).
Work Hours & Schedule
- Shift: Flexible First Shift (e.g., 5:30 AM – 2:30 PM, or 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM), Monday through Friday.
- Overtime: Occasional overtime may be required to meet prototype deadlines or address urgent production machine downtime.
- Flexibility: As this is a new role, a degree of flexibility is needed as we establish the workflow between R&D and Production.