Tool and Die Maker Apprentice

Main Activities/Responsibilities

• Learns the following knowledge and skills, according to applicable apprenticeship standards, to achieve the Journeyman Tool and Die Maker certification:
• Machine Operation and Setup: Sets up and operates conventional and CNC machine tools (lathes, mills, grinders, drill presses) to shape parts to precise dimensions.
• Tool and Die Fabrication: Studies blueprints and models to plan, cut, shape, and trim blanks. Fits and assembles parts to create, modify, or repair dies, jigs, gauges, and tools using hand tools or welders.
• Design and Development: Designs jigs, fixtures, and templates. Develops new tools and dies using computer-aided design (CAD) software, including creating/updating drawings, and Engineering Change Requests.
• Quality Inspection and Testing: Verifies work conformance using calipers, micrometers, and gauges. Conducts test runs with completed tools/dies, inspecting for dimensions, smoothness, contour conformity, and defects.
• Material Preparation and Layout: Selects alloys based on properties. Measures, marks, and scribes stock for machining. Positions and secures parts using hoists, vises, and v-blocks.
• Surface Finishing: Files, grinds, shims, and polishes surfaces to ensure proper fit and finish.
• Specialized Processes: Heat Treatment: Understands hardness scales (A-2, S-7, etc.), annealing, and stress-relieving processes. Press Operations: Sets up and operates punch presses. Welding/Fixture Support: Loads/unloads weld fixtures and monitors weld quality.
• Professional and Safety Standards: Planning and Interpretation: Reads and interprets machining instructions, blueprints, and job orders to determine sequences and tooling requirements. Operational Precision: Selects cutting speeds, feed rates, and depths of cut based on metal properties. Safety and Compliance: Enforces and adheres to all health and safety regulations, including OSHA, GMP, HACCP, and equipment-specific safety rules. Process Improvement: Troubleshoots equipment failures, implements process improvements, and communicates with the team.
• Administrative Support: Requests and processes pricing quotations and ensures production output meets organizational expectations.

Competencies And Skills

• Excellent math and mechanical skills and ability.
• Attentiveness and detail-oriented: the ability and desire to do precision work.
• Ability to follow directions.
• Ability to work as part of a team as well as independently.
• Problem solving and planning skills.
• Computer skills.
• Excellent communication skills: written and verbal.

Your Physical Demands/Work Environment

• Must be able to stand and walk for prolonged periods of time.
• Most of the required work is performed in the standing position at a workbench.
• Physical activity includes reaching, twisting, and bending; frequent lifting of average to heavy weight material up to 50 pounds unassisted and over 50 pounds assisted; standing for extended periods, walking unassisted, using tools of the trade.
• Must have good manual dexterity and the use of two hands required.
• Must be able to bend, reach, grasp, push, and pull several types of units without difficulty.
• Perform activities in a shop environment. May be subject to changes in temperature and exposure to dust.
• Must be able to operate standard warehouse equipment (pallet jacks, forklifts, etc.).