Tool and Die Maker Apprentice

Whirlpool•Racine, WI

2d•Onsite

About The Position

This position builds the foundation for progression into a Journeyman Tool and Die Maker. The Tool and Die Apprentice assists in the assessment, layout, fabrication, and repair of metalworking dies, cutting tools, jigs, fixtures, and gauges. Under the direct supervision of a Journeyman, you will learn to apply shop mathematics, metal properties, and advanced machining procedures to create and maintain the high-precision tooling required for production. This role is a path toward becoming a skilled Tool and Die Maker through hands-on technical training and theoretical study.

Requirements

High School Diploma or GED required.
Strong foundation in shop math, including geometry and trigonometry, for calculating angles and tolerances.
Basic machine shop skills or CNC experience.
Previous experience with toolroom machinery.
Understanding of modern punch press principles.
Strong communication skills, ability to read and interpret blueprints, and strong troubleshooting skills.
Must be able to stand and walk for the duration of an 8- to 12-hour shift on concrete shop floors.
Ability to lift and carry objects up to 50 lbs.
Must be able to use hoists and cranes to position and secure heavy machined parts on worktables or surface plates.
High level of manual dexterity for handling small components, scribing fine lines, and performing delicate assembly work.
Frequent bending, squatting, and reaching; ability to work at various heights to secure parts in vises, V-blocks, and angle plates.
Must have excellent near-vision for reading blueprints and using precision measuring tools.

Responsibilities

Assist in studying blueprints, sketches, and 3D models to visualize finished products and determine the necessary materials and machinery required for fabrication.
Compute dimensions, plan layouts, and determine the most efficient assembly methods and sequences of operations.
Set up and operate a variety of machine tools, including lathes, milling machines, shapers, and grinders, to machine parts to exacting specifications.
Measure, mark, and scribe metal stock for machining; learn to identify and apply the correct metal properties for specific tooling applications.
Smooth flat and contoured surfaces using scrapers and abrasive stones; fit and assemble parts into complex mechanisms using hand tools and power grinders.
Learn to verify dimensions, alignments, and clearances using high-precision instruments such as dial indicators, gauge blocks, thickness gauges, and micrometers.
Assist in the heat-treating of tools or parts to achieve required hardness and durability.
Assist in connecting wiring and hydraulic lines for the installation of electrical and hydraulic components.
Over time, learn to examine used dies and jigs to recommend design modifications for improved function; assist in sketching designs for specialty tools from general descriptions.