Tool & Die Maker

PCC Talent Acquisition Portal • Groton, CT

5d

About The Position

The Tool & Die Maker analyzes specifications, lays out metal stock, sets up and operates machine tools, and fits and assembles parts to fabricate and repair metalworking dies, cutting tools, jigs, fixtures, gauges, and machinists’ hand tools. The role works at the highest level of complexity and may organize, instruct, and supervise large tooling programs. The schedule is 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. The position reports to the Engineering Manager.

The work includes interpreting blueprints and specifications; planning machining sequences; using conventional and CNC machine tools; designing tools, dies, jigs, fixtures, and templates with CAD software; and inspecting, testing, fitting, and adjusting finished tooling. The Tool & Die Maker also evaluates quotes and repair options, solves tooling and wax-press operation problems, and applies tooling automation practices.

The employee must maintain an average production rate at standard, or average, with an acceptable rework and scrap rate over the previous six-month period. They must anticipate or prevent recurring production problems, consult with lead or supervisory personnel, and obtain supervisor sign-off before implementing suggested changes. Willingness to learn on the job and take vocational or educational courses when offered is expected.

Requirements

• Trade school experience in machine trades or at least one year of experience as a machinist performing close-tolerance machining.
• One to three years of experience, or a combination of work experience and trade school.
• Ability to read blueprints and understand dimensioning and tolerances.
• Educational background including college algebra or geometry, or demonstrated ability to build and design simple gauges and fixtures and repair and rework tooling.
• Working knowledge of CAD/CAM programs.
• Ability to maintain an average production rate at standard, or average, with acceptable rework and scrap rates over the previous six months.
• Ability to anticipate production problems, communicate and consult with lead or supervisory personnel, and obtain supervisor approval before implementing changes.
• Willingness to learn on the job and take vocational or educational courses when offered.

Responsibilities

• Organize, instruct, and supervise large tooling programs.
• Study blueprints, sketches, models, and specifications to plan operations for fabricating tools, dies, and assemblies.
• Set up and operate conventional or CNC machine tools, including lathes, milling machines, and grinders, to produce parts to prescribed dimensions and finishes.
• Measure and verify dimensions, alignments, clearances, and tolerances using instruments such as calipers, gauge blocks, micrometers, and dial indicators.
• Calculate or visualize dimensions, sizes, shapes, and tolerances of workpieces and assemblies.
• Inspect finished dies for smoothness, contour conformity, and defects.
• Fit, assemble, repair, and modify dies, jigs, gauges, fixtures, and tools using machine tools and hand tools.
• Conduct test runs with completed tools, dies, or production equipment and make necessary adjustments.
• File, grind, shim, adjust, smooth, and polish metal parts and surfaces.
• Select metals and alloys based on properties such as hardness and heat tolerance.
• Lift, position, and secure machined parts on work surfaces using hoists, vises, V-blocks, or angle plates.
• Develop and design tools and dies using computer-aided design software; design jigs, fixtures, templates, and other production aids.
• Measure, mark, and scribe stock to lay out machining operations.
• Set up and operate drill presses to drill and tap assembly holes.
• Cut, shape, and trim blanks or blocks using power saws, power shears, and hand tools.
• Train toolmakers of lesser skill.
• Evaluate quotes for cost justification and manufacturing feasibility.
• Solve tooling design, rework, and wax-press operation problems.
• Analyze repair and rework costs and select efficient, cost-effective solutions.
• Apply knowledge of tooling automation methods and practices.
• Anticipate or prevent production problems, communicate and consult with lead or supervisory personnel, and obtain supervisor approval before implementing suggested changes.
• Maintain production, rework, and scrap performance at the specified acceptable levels.
• Pursue on-the-job learning and vocational or educational courses when offered.

Benefits

• Eligible to participate in the Company’s Quarterly Cash Bonus Plan.
• 80 hours of paid time off annually, 8 paid holidays, 40 hours of sick time, and 2 floating holidays.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage for employees and their families.
• Company-paid basic life insurance.
• 401(k) retirement plan with company contribution.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed