TOOL & DIE APPRENTICE

About the role

The Tool & Die Maker Apprentice is an entry-level position to train and prepare employees to be responsible for maintaining all tooling in the Plant. The Tool & Die Apprentice is responsible for assisting technicians and other roles within the maintenance department. This role will work under direct supervision of the Lead and Supervisor.

Responsibilities

• Maintain tooling to ensure quality production parts
• Build Jigs & Fixtures
• Read and interpret prints and process instructions
• Troubleshoot tooling problems at the press
• Perform routine service of tooling and preparation of blocks and tooling blanks
• Perform component die maintenance and die assembly
• Read prints and job orders to determine dimensions and machine setup
• Set up and operate various machining and grinding equipment such as Mills, Lathes, and surface grinders in order to machine or grind components to precise specifications
• Verify conformance of finished work pieces to specifications using precision measuring devices such as micrometers, calipers, gauges, comparators, etc.
• Perform short production runs to prove new or repaired tooling
• Perform tasks to meet speed expectations without compromising quality
• Select feed rate, cutting speed, depth of cut and tooling to be used
• Use progressive tooling to run production on components
• Document and update die history and other work records
• Implement Engineering Changes on existing tooling
• Sharpening all tooling and maintaining proper punch entry and pass line heights
• Establish timing of stations on all progressive tooling, maintain all forming stations in tooling
• Operate all tool room equipment
• Build miscellaneous jigs, fixtures, clamps, and molds to achieve greatest operational efficiency for meeting high quality and production standards
• Follow all safety guidelines/procedures
• Maintain a safe, clean, and organized work area
• Perform additional projects/duties to support ongoing business needs

Nature & Scope

Takes direction from lead/Supervisor and works within well-defined instructions.

Knowledge & Skills

• Basic knowledge of Machine Shop Practices
• Good verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to read and use calibrated tape measures, micrometers, and dial calipers to identify standard and metric units based on ticket requirements
• Good hand-eye coordination and dexterity; ability to manipulate tools with both hands and stand for long hours
• Good with math, reading and interpret blueprints, using calipers, and good with computers
• Ability to perform basic troubleshooting of machine and tooling problems
• Maintain a clean and safe working environment
• Must be able to work well with other members of the department
• Previous trade school/mechanical training is a plus
• Ability to apply good judgment, strong work ethics, and integrity on the job

Competency Experience

1+ years of experience working in a fabrication/machine shop, preferably in a high-volume setting.

Education/Certification

• High school diploma or GED
• Previous trade school/mechanical training preferred

People Management

No

Physical Requirements / Work Environment

Must be able to perform essential responsibilities with or without reasonable accommodations.

Reports To

Supervisor