Tool & Die Specialist

Job Overview

The Tool & Die Technician supports HGC’s mission by maintaining, repairing, and modifying tooling and dies to ensure consistent production of high-quality parts that meet internal and customer expectations. This individual will collaborate closely with Quality, Engineering, and Production teams to identify, troubleshoot, and implement effective solutions for tooling-related issues that could impact manufacturing timelines or part quality.

Essential Functions

• Accurately measure tools and components using high-precision instruments such as height gauges, calipers, micrometers, and depth gauges.
• Perform rework and repair of all steel tooling utilizing in-house equipment, including: Manual mill, Manual lathe, Surface grinder, Standard hand tools.
• Demonstrate a strong ability to interpret customer blueprints in order to verify tooling accuracy and ensure compliance with specifications.
• Troubleshoot machine and tooling issues at the point of use, identifying root causes and implementing effective solutions.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with Quality, Engineering, and Maintenance teams to support and execute in-house continuous improvement initiatives.
• Maintain and manage tooling improvement records through spreadsheet tracking systems, ensuring accurate and timely updates.
• Utilize the ERP system effectively to ensure full traceability, proper staging, and accurate status updates for all production tooling.
• Work collaboratively with cross-functional teams to determine task priorities and establish clear expectations for deadlines and deliverables.
• Participate in internal design reviews for new products, providing input on tooling requirements, feasibility, and performance expectations.
• Foster strong relationships across departments and team members to promote collaboration, support peer development, and drive organizational growth.
• Manage tooling repair tickets to improve turnaround time and efficiency.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Required Skills & Abilities

• Proficient math skills, including applying basic math skills to solve more complex problems, often involving multi-step calculations and reasoning.
• Skilled in root cause analysis and hands-on problem solving of tooling and die-related issues.
• Ability to read blueprints and identify non-conforming product.
• Basic skills in Microsoft Office tools, including Word and Excel.
• Excellent time management skills and the ability to efficiently manage priorities and tasks based on importance.
• Adaptability skills to effectively manage demands, frequent changes, delays, or unexpected events.
• Ability to work self-sufficiently to ensure accuracy and quality of tasks.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma/GED preferred
• 5+ years of tool and die experience required
• 5+ years of experience in a manufacturing facility preferred
• 3+ years of experience in automotive manufacturing – preferred
• Certified in Manufacturing CNC equipment – preferred
• Tool and Die Maker Trade Certifications – preferred
• Forklift Operator Certification – preferred
• National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS) Certification - preferred

Physical Demands

• Standing for extended periods- 5-10 hours/day
• Walking for long periods- 1-5 hours/day
• Stoop, kneel, crouch, and crawl – Often
• Climbing on ladders, scaffolding, and/or stairs if needed – Occasionally
• Occasionally lifting, moving, and carrying up to 50 pounds

Environmental Conditions

• Manufacturing plant and office employees can/will be exposed to noise, dirt, dust, fumes, odors, chemicals, and other airborne particles.

Travel Requirements

• None

Compensation

• $22 - $30 /hour based on experience

Schedule

• Monday through Friday, 6:00am to 2:30pm

Location

• (On-Site, Indianapolis (Martindale-Brightwood area))

Company Information

• HGC Industries is a worldwide leader in designing and manufacturing gaskets, sealing surfaces, and stamping.
• We provide technical sealing and stamping solutions to customers around the globe through our excellence in engineering, technology, manufacturing, and customer service.
• Our mission is to create gaskets and components that satisfy the most complex manufacturing challenges and provide high-quality products and services to the world at a reasonable cost.
• At HGC, our employees are the foundation of our success. We encourage our employees to use their strengths, expertise, and determination to deliver on our commitments and achieve individual growth.