Tool & Model Maker Apprentice - Year 1

S&C Electric Company•Chicago, IL

3d•$29•Onsite

About The Position

As a Tool & Model Maker Apprentice, you’ll work side‑by‑side with experienced toolmakers in our Prototyping & Tooling Department, gaining hands-on experience while learning a highly skilled trade. This team builds and maintains the tooling that supports manufacturing, assembly, and R&D, including dies, molds, fixtures, gauges, and testing equipment. This is a structured, four‑year apprenticeship that combines classroom instruction with real‑world shop experience. As your skills grow, so will your responsibilities.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent
Ability to pass the S&C Apprenticeship Entrance Exam
Completion of (or equivalent experience in): Shop Math (Math 1), Introduction to Metrology, Blueprint Reading for Machinists
Basic understanding of machining operations (milling, turning, grinding)
Strong attention to detail and problem‑solving skills
Willingness to learn, ask questions, and grow in a hands-on environment
Reliable, punctual on‑site attendance

Nice To Haves

2 years of machine shop or precision manufacturing experience
Coursework or training in: GD&T, Dimensional Metrology
Some experience with CAD or related software

Responsibilities

Assist with building, repairing, and maintaining precision tools, dies, molds, fixtures, and gauges
Learn to set up and operate lathes, mills, grinders, saws, drill presses, and other machine tools
Read and work from blueprints, schematics, and engineering drawings
Use precision measuring instruments to ensure tight tolerance and accuracy
Troubleshoot and support repairs on production tooling and equipment
Apply shop math, geometry, and trigonometry to real machining tasks
Collaborate with engineering and manufacturing teams
Follow safety standards and maintain organized documentation
Actively participate in apprenticeship training and coursework