Tool Room Technician
About the Role
Gates is a leading manufacturer of application-specific fluid power and power transmission solutions. We push the boundaries of material science to engineer solutions that continually exceed customer expectations. The Tool Room Technician performs skilled machining, maintenance, and repair of tooling, fixtures, and precision components to support manufacturing, engineering, and prototype activities. This role executes assigned tasks with a high degree of accuracy and consistency, working within established processes and procedures.
Responsibilities
- Perform routine maintenance, repair, and minor modification of tooling, fixtures, and gauges used in manufacturing and prototype environments
- Execute machining operations using manual equipment such as lathes, mills, and grinders, following detailed instructions and drawings
- Interpret basic technical drawings and specifications to produce or repair components within defined tolerances
- Use precision measurement tools (calipers, micrometers, height gauges, etc.) to verify dimensional accuracy and compliance
- Support engineering and production teams by completing assigned tooling tasks and adjustments in a timely manner
- Assist with prototype builds, tooling setups, and simple modifications under the direction of senior technicians or engineers
- Record work performed, including maintenance and repair activities, in accordance with established documentation practices
- Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment in the tool room
- Identify and report tooling issues, defects, or process deviations and escalate as appropriate
- Follow all safety, quality, and operational standards consistently
Requirements
Education & Experience
- 4–8 years of experience in a tool room, machining, or manufacturing maintenance environment
- High school diploma or equivalent required
- Technical training in machining, tool & die, or related field preferred
Skills & Competencies
- Proficiency operating manual machining equipment (lathe, mill, grinder)
- Ability to read and follow technical drawings and work instructions
- Basic understanding of GD&T and dimensional tolerancing
- Skilled in the use of precision measurement instruments
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality
- Ability to follow standard work processes and safety protocols
- Effective communication and collaboration with engineering and production teams
- Basic troubleshooting skills for tooling and equipment issues
Preferred Skills
- Experience in a prototype or development-focused environment
- Exposure to CNC machining or programming (support-level, not primary responsibility)
- Familiarity with tooling maintenance systems or work order tracking tools
- Basic welding or fabrication skills
Work Environment
- Manufacturing and technical center setting
- Exposure to machining equipment, tooling operations, and prototype development activities
- Requires adherence to strict safety standards and use of PPE
- May involve standing for extended periods and handling precision components
Pay
Hourly: $25.00 - $29.00
Benefits
- Medical, Dental, Vision insurance and other voluntary benefit options (benefits begin on the first day of the month immediately following your date of hire)
- Eligible for (3 or 2) weeks of paid vacation + 11 holidays (9 scheduled & 2 floating) + 8 sick days (all vacation days are accrued)
- 401(k): 3% company contribution and additional 3% company match
- Tuition Reimbursement
About Gates
Founded in 1911 in Denver, Colorado, Gates is publicly traded on the NYSE. We operate as 'One Gates' with a common goal of pushing the boundaries of materials science. We invest in our people, bringing real-world experience that enables us to solve our customers' diverse challenges of today and anticipate those of tomorrow.