Tool & Die Maker/Repair
Flex-N-Gate · Grand Rapids Metropolitan Area · 3 days ago
ManagementFull-time
About the role
The Tool Maker is responsible for building, repairing, and maintaining precision tools, dies, fixtures, and molds used in the production of automotive components. This role requires a high level of craftsmanship, attention to detail, and the ability to work from engineering drawings and specifications to produce tooling that meets exacting standards. Working closely with Engineering, Production, and Maintenance teams, the Tool Maker ensures that all tooling supports efficient, safe, and high-quality manufacturing operations.
Schedule
3rd Shift (9:00 pm – 5:30 am), Sunday through Thursday.
Responsibilities
- Manufacture new tools, dies, jigs, fixtures, and molds based on blueprints or CAD designs.
- Repair and maintain existing tooling to ensure optimal performance and minimal production downtime.
- Operate a variety of manual and CNC machines including lathes, mills, surface grinders, and EDM machines.
- Perform precision measurements using micrometers, calipers, and gauges to verify dimensions.
- Interpret complex technical drawings, CAD files, and work instructions.
- Support production teams by providing timely and effective tooling solutions.
- Comply with all quality systems and procedures.
- Build dies from blueprints, drawings, last off status cards, and supervisor lineups.
- Work with other departments to resolve tooling problems.
- Maintain good housekeeping in the tool room work area.
- Work and dress safely (wear proper protective equipment, demonstrate safe use of all machinery and equipment).
- Responsible for working in a safe manner and following all Health and Safety procedures.
Requirements
- High school diploma or GED required.
- Completion of a Tool & Die apprenticeship program or equivalent technical training.
- 3+ years of experience as a Tool Maker, preferably in an automotive or high-volume manufacturing environment.
- Possess a Provincial Trade License or equivalent experience preferred.
Working Conditions
- Some travel may be required.
- On-call from the plant by cell phone after hours.
- Manual dexterity required to use desktop computer and peripherals.
- Position requires sitting, walking, or standing for 40+ hours per week.
- Overtime, including weekend work, as required.
- Physical ability to lift 30 lbs.
- May be required to use PPE.
- Exposure to an industrial manufacturing environment potentially including: sparks, dust, oil, high noise levels, vibrations, flashing lights, exposure to moving mechanical parts, odors, fumes, and/or airborne particles.
Skills
- Time Management
- Development and Continual Learning
- Problem Solving
- Accountability and Dependability
- Research Analysis
- Decision Making and Judgement
- Providing Consultation
- Ethics and Integrity
- Planning Organizing
- Mathematical Reasoning
- Enforcing Laws, Rules and Regulations
- Coaching and Mentoring
- Communication
- Teamwork
Training Requirements
- New Employee Orientation
- Advanced Product Quality Planning
- Control Plan
- Crane Operator Training
- Die Cart Training
- Electronic ECN Training
- Fall Protection
- Gas Air Monitoring
- Hazard Communication
- Hot Work Permit
- Inspection Standards
- Ladder Safety & Inspection
- Lock Out Tag Out Affected Employees
- Machine Guarding
- PFMEA Overview
- Power Press
- Scissor Lift Training
- Used Oil/Universal Waste
- Quality Management Systems - CQAM.00001 Quality Management Systems Manual
- ISO 9001, IATF 16949, and applicable Customer Specific Requirements
Benefits
- Medical, dental, prescription, vision, life and disability insurance; and a flexible spending account
- 401(k) retirement savings plan with company match
- Extensive safety training, new hire orientation, continuous learning and development programs and tuition reimbursement
- Paid holidays and vacation time