Senior Toolmaker Machinist Mentor

Jaktool•Cranbury, NJ

16h

About The Position

JAKTOOL is seeking an experienced, hands-on Senior Toolmaker / Machinist Mentor to share technical knowledge and practical expertise with junior toolmakers, machinists, manufacturing technicians, and manufacturing engineers. The role focuses on hands-on instruction, technical guidance, and mentorship in a precision prototype manufacturing environment, helping employees develop technical competency, sound machining practices, problem-solving skills, and craftsmanship while supporting quality, efficiency, and continuous improvement. It is a hands-on mentoring position rather than a traditional production or supervisory role. Retired and semi-retired professionals interested in meaningful part-time work are encouraged to apply. The mentor provides instruction in manual and CNC machining, machining fundamentals, engineering drawings and GD&T, and precision measurement. The role also advises on complex machining operations, tooling, fixtures, manufacturing processes, manufacturability, and process improvements. The mentor supports troubleshooting and root-cause analysis, demonstrates techniques through hands-on instruction and occasional direct machining support, and reinforces maintenance, organization, safety, and quality practices. The position also supports knowledge transfer by helping establish and document machining best practices, developing practical training materials and skills checklists, identifying skill gaps with manufacturing leadership, and evaluating employee progress. The ideal candidate is passionate about the machining trade, patient and approachable, committed to craftsmanship and safety, and able to explain technical concepts clearly while encouraging independent thinking and sound technical judgment.

Requirements

At least 15 years of hands-on experience in precision machining, toolmaking, or a closely related manufacturing discipline is preferred.
Advanced proficiency with manual machining equipment, including mills, lathes, and grinders.
Strong understanding of CNC machining processes, machine setup, cutting tools, workholding, and machining fundamentals.
Ability to read and interpret complex engineering drawings, GD&T, and machining specifications.
Extensive experience with precision measurement, inspection, and quality control techniques.
Demonstrated ability to train, coach, or mentor less-experienced machinists or technicians.
Strong practical problem-solving and troubleshooting skills.
Excellent communication skills, patience, and a genuine interest in developing others.
Commitment to workplace safety, quality, and professional craftsmanship.
Genuine passion for the machining trade and a desire to pass along accumulated knowledge.
Ability to work patiently and approachably with employees at varying skill levels.
Ability to explain complex technical concepts clearly and practically.
Ability to lead by example with professionalism, humility, and a willingness to share knowledge.
Interest in encouraging employees to think independently and working collaboratively in a small, team-oriented manufacturing environment.

Nice To Haves

Completion of a formal toolmaker or machinist apprenticeship, journeyman certification, or equivalent extensive hands-on experience.
Experience in precision prototype manufacturing, aerospace, defense, or another high-tolerance manufacturing environment.
Familiarity with CNC equipment such as HAAS, DMG Mori, or Tsugami.
Experience with CNC programming and CAD/CAM software such as Mastercam.
Experience working in an ISO 9001 quality management environment.
Previous experience as a lead machinist, master toolmaker, shop trainer, or technical instructor.

Responsibilities

Provide hands-on training and mentorship to junior toolmakers, machinists, and manufacturing technicians.
Teach proper setup, operation, and maintenance of manual mills, lathes, grinders, and CNC equipment.
Demonstrate machining fundamentals, including cutting speeds and feeds, tooling selection, workholding, machine setup, and finishing techniques.
Instruct employees in reading and interpreting engineering drawings, blueprints, tolerances, and GD&T.
Teach proper use of precision measuring equipment, including micrometers, calipers, indicators, gauge blocks, and optical comparators.
Develop employees' ability to troubleshoot machining challenges and identify practical solutions independently.
Provide constructive feedback and coaching to improve technical proficiency, confidence, and workmanship.
Work with manufacturing leadership to identify skill gaps and develop individualized training plans.
Evaluate and communicate employee progress toward demonstrated technical competency.
Provide technical guidance on complex machining operations, tooling, fixtures, and manufacturing processes.
Assist Manufacturing Engineers in evaluating manufacturability, machining strategies, and process improvements.
Demonstrate proper machining techniques through hands-on instruction and occasional direct machining support.
Share practical experience in precision machining, prototype manufacturing, and toolmaking.
Support troubleshooting and root-cause analysis of machining errors, tooling problems, and quality concerns.
Recommend improvements to manufacturing methods, workholding, tooling, and machine setup to improve quality and efficiency.
Reinforce sound practices for machine maintenance, shop organization, and safe equipment operation.
Help establish and document best practices for machining operations.
Assist in developing practical training materials, setup instructions, and skills checklists.
Promote continuous learning, teamwork, accountability, and craftsmanship.
Encourage employees to understand why particular machining methods and techniques are used, not just how to perform them.
Support employee independence and sound technical judgment.
Reinforce JAKTOOL's quality standards, safety expectations, and commitment to continuous improvement.