A day in this role
You arrive to a well-equipped toolroom, review the day’s production needs, and jump into keeping progressive dies running flawlessly. One hour you’re sharpening a die to hold tight tolerances; the next you’re diagnosing a press issue on the floor, machining a replacement component, and proving it out with a clean test run. Safety, precision, and smart problem-solving guide every move you make.
What you’ll do
- Build, repair, maintain, and fully rebuild progressive dies to print and to performance standards.
- Modify existing tooling as customer specifications and production demands change.
- Sharpen cutting sections and restore critical surfaces to ensure quality parts.
- Troubleshoot die and press problems and recommend effective corrective actions.
- Perform changeovers on multi-part tooling with accuracy and speed.
- Read and interpret blueprints, CAD models, and technical documentation.
- Machine die components as needed to tolerance.
- Set up die components and tooling for production readiness.
- Safely set up and operate toolroom equipment: drills, lathes, grinders, and milling machines.
- Fit and assemble tools and dies for correct function, smooth operation, and precise contours.
- Inspect tooling for dimensional accuracy, finish, and form integrity.
- Conduct test runs and verify performance before release to production.
- Use precision measuring instruments, including calipers and micrometers.
- Follow company safety rules, policies, procedures, and quality standards.
- Maintain a clean, orderly, and safe workspace.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
What you bring
- Deep knowledge of toolroom equipment and safe, efficient operation.
- Expertise in progressive die build, repair, and preventive maintenance practices.
- Hands-on experience with punch press equipment and metal forming processes.
- Proven troubleshooting ability for press and die issues.
- Fluency in reading blueprints and CAD drawings.
- Proficiency with calipers, micrometers, and other precision gaging.
- Strong mechanical aptitude and meticulous attention to detail.
- Team-first mindset with clear, professional communication skills.
- Safety-focused, dependable, and self-motivated work style.
- Basic computer literacy.
Education & experience
- High school diploma or GED required.
- Five years of related experience and/or training preferred, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
- TMA certificate or equivalent preferred.
- Background in progressive dies, stamping, tool and die maintenance, or metal forming is highly desirable.
Language & communication
- Read and apply safety rules, operating/maintenance instructions, and procedures.
- Interpret blueprints and CAD outputs to plan work.
- Write clear, routine reports and job documentation.
- Communicate effectively with coworkers, supervisors, and cross-functional partners.
Mathematics
- Comfort with addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division using whole numbers, fractions, and decimals.
- Apply basic algebra and geometry to manufacturing and tooling tasks.
Problem-solving
- Translate written, verbal, or diagrammed instructions into action.
- Diagnose and resolve mechanical and tooling issues.
- Handle problems with several concrete variables in standardized situations.
- Exercise sound judgment and attention to detail in a production setting.
Work Environment
- Manufacturing/toolroom setting with exposure to moving mechanical parts, airborne particles, electrical hazards, vibration, manufacturing-related environmental conditions, and loud noise.
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.
Physical Requirements
- Occasionally lift and/or move more than 80 pounds.
- Regularly stand and walk; use hands and reach with hands and arms.
- Regularly stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl.
- Frequently climb or balance.
- Occasionally sit, talk, and hear.
- Work safely around machinery, tooling, and manufacturing equipment.
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Tools & tech
- CNC Tooling
- Tool/Die/Mold repair
- Tool/Die/Mold setup
- Programmable Logic Controller (PLC)