Tool Maker & CNC Machinist Apprentice

Laborup • Maryville, TN

1d • Onsite

About The Position

Build, Repair, and Improve the Tools That Drive Production
We're seeking a hands-on Toolmaker / Mold Maintenance Machinist to join our manufacturing team. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys working with precision tooling, solving mechanical problems, and taking projects from concept through completion.
You'll play a critical role in maintaining and repairing injection molds while also supporting the design, fabrication, modification, and improvement of tooling, fixtures, gauges, and prototype components. If you have experience with manual machining, mold maintenance, blueprint reading, and precision measurement, we'd love to talk with you.

Requirements

• High School Diploma or GED
• Apprenticeship training and 1–2 years of experience in tool & die, mold maintenance, machining, or a related manufacturing environment
• Experience operating manual machine tools such as mills, lathes, and grinders
• Basic knowledge of CNC mills and lathes
• Ability to build or modify components from drawings, sketches, or concepts
• Strong blueprint reading and precision measurement skills
• Working knowledge of shop mathematics, including fractions, decimals, geometry, and basic algebra

Nice To Haves

• Experience with hydraulic or pneumatic clamping systems is a plus
• Forklift or hoist experience is a plus

Responsibilities

• Perform injection mold maintenance, including teardown, cleaning, troubleshooting, repair, and reassembly
• Set up and operate manual machining equipment including lathes, mills, surface grinders, and ProtoTRAK-controlled machines
• Manufacture and modify tooling, fixtures, gauges, and prototype components from engineering drawings and concepts
• Read and interpret blueprints, drawings, and specifications
• Use precision measuring instruments to verify quality and dimensional accuracy
• Support production teams by troubleshooting tooling and machining-related issues
• Collaborate closely with engineering teams on prototype tooling and continuous improvement projects
• Create high-quality finished components with tight tolerances and excellent craftsmanship
• Maintain a safe, organized, and efficient work environment

Benefits

• Stable first-shift schedule
• Opportunity to develop advanced mold maintenance and toolmaking skills
• Hands-on work with a variety of machining and tooling equipment
• Collaborative environment working directly with engineering and production teams
• Direct impact on manufacturing performance and product quality
• Long-term career growth within a highly technical manufacturing operation

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED