Tool Maker

Collective Manufacturing Group, LLC•Columbia, CT

3h•Onsite

About The Position

We are seeking a highly skilled Tool Maker to fabricate, maintain, and repair precision tools, dies, fixtures, jigs, and gauges used in the production of aerospace components. The ideal candidate will have strong mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and experience working with tight tolerances and aerospace-grade materials. This role ensures tooling integrity, repeatability, and compliance with AS9100 and company quality standards.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent; technical certification or vocational training preferred.
Minimum of 5 years of experience as a tool maker in precision manufacturing or aerospace environment.
Strong knowledge of metallurgy, machining processes, and tooling materials.
Proficient in manual and CNC machine operation (mills, lathes, grinders, etc.).
Skilled in blueprint reading, GD&T interpretation, and precision measurement techniques.
Excellent problem-solving, troubleshooting, and mechanical aptitude.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team, be open-minded and flexible with changing priorities.
Strong organizational, documentation skills, and attention to detail.
Experience with aerospace alloys such as aluminum, titanium, stainless steel, and Inconel.
Knowledge of welding, assembly, and fabrication processes (sheet metal, saw cutting, deburring).
Willingness to work overtime as needed.
Demonstrate training ability and be able to support internal customer needs.
Accurately read engineering prints
Demonstrate commitment to quality, safety and communication and be a team player.
Must be a "U.S. person" as defined by ITAR (22 CFR §120.15), which includes U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, refugees, or asylees, as required by U.S. export control laws.

Nice To Haves

Familiarity with CAD/CAM software for tool design is preferred.
Experience in lean manufacturing or continuous improvement methodologies.

Responsibilities

Fabricate, assemble, and maintain production tools, dies, jigs, and fixtures according to engineering drawings and specifications.
Interpret blueprints, CAD drawings, and geometric tolerances (GD&T) to produce precise tooling.
Perform precision machining, grinding, welding, and assembly operations on tooling components.
Inspect tools using precision measuring instruments (micrometers, calipers, height gauges, CMM, etc.) to ensure compliance with specifications.
Troubleshoot and repair worn or damaged tooling to minimize production downtime.
Collaborate with engineers, quality inspectors, and production staff to improve tool design and functionality.
Maintain detailed documentation of tooling specifications, maintenance schedules, and repair logs.
Knowledge of setups and running of various manual and CNC machines (0-60” capacity lathe, mill, etc.).
Follow all safety policies and procedures, including PPE usage and machine guarding.
Participate in continuous improvement initiatives to optimize tooling processes and manufacturing efficiency.
Ensure tooling meets AS9100, customer, and internal quality standards.