A day in this role
When you arrive, you review the day’s stamping schedule, pull the next progressive die, and get hands-on—inspecting for wear, sharpening, and rebuilding components as needed. A press operator flags a dimensional shift, and you spring into action: blueprint in one hand, micrometer in the other. You diagnose the issue, machine a replacement detail, fit and assemble the tool for smooth operation, then run a quick test to verify contours and tolerances. Between jobs, you convert multi-part tooling for the next run, keep the tool room orderly, and document your work so production never misses a beat.
What you’ll do
- Build, service, maintain, and fully rebuild progressive dies per specifications and design intent.
- Modify existing tooling to reflect customer changes and evolving production demands.
- Perform sharpening and repair on progressive dies to sustain quality and uptime.
- Troubleshoot die and press issues; recommend and implement corrective measures.
- Complete changeovers on multi-part tooling to meet schedule requirements.
- Interpret blueprints, CAD models, and technical documentation accurately.
- Machine die details and components as necessary to restore performance.
- Set up die components and associated tooling for production readiness.
- Safely set up and operate tool room equipment, including drills, lathes, grinders, and milling machines.
- Fit and assemble tooling for proper function, smooth action, and accurate contours.
- Inspect tools and dies for defects, dimensional accuracy, finish, and contour integrity.
- Conduct test runs and validate tool performance before release to production.
- Use precision instruments (calipers, micrometers, etc.) to verify dimensions.
- Follow all safety rules, policies, procedures, and quality standards.
- Keep the tool room clean, organized, and safe; perform additional duties as assigned.
Qualifications you bring
- Deep knowledge of tool room machines and safe, efficient operating practices.
- Proficiency in progressive die build, repair, and maintenance methodologies.
- Hands-on experience with punch presses and metal forming operations.
- Proven ability to diagnose and resolve press and die problems.
- Skilled at reading/understanding blueprints and CAD drawings.
- Comfort with precision measurement tools, including calipers and micrometers.
- Mechanical aptitude, meticulous attention to detail, and quality mindset.
- Team-focused with clear communication and collaborative approach.
- Reliable, safety-minded, and self-driven.
- Basic computer proficiency.
Education & experience
- High school diploma or GED required.
- Five years of related experience and/or training preferred, or an equivalent mix 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 interpret safety rules, operating/maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals.
- Read and understand blueprints and CAD.
- Write routine reports and correspondence.
- Communicate effectively across teams and shifts.
Math & reasoning
- Perform addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division using whole numbers, fractions, and decimals.
- Apply basic algebra and geometry in tooling/manufacturing contexts.
- Use common sense to follow written, verbal, and diagram-based instructions.
- Troubleshoot mechanical/tooling issues and resolve standardized problems with multiple variables.
- Exercise strong attention to detail and sound judgment in production.
Work environment
- Manufacturing/tool room setting with exposure to moving mechanical parts, airborne particles, electrical hazards, vibration, manufacturing-related conditions, and loud noise.
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.
Physical requirements
- Perform the physical tasks necessary to safely and effectively complete essential duties.
- Occasionally lift and/or move more than 80 pounds.
- Regularly stand, walk, use hands, and reach with hands/arms.
- Regularly stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl.
- Frequently climb or balance.
- Occasionally sit, talk, and hear.
- Work safely around machinery, tooling, and other manufacturing equipment.
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
You’re proficient in
- CNC Tooling
- Tool/Die/Mold Repair Skills
- Tool/Die/Mold Setup Experience
Machines & technologies you’ll use
- Programmable Logic Controller (PLC)