Toolroom Apprentice

Howmet Aerospace•Berea, OH

About The Position

The Toolroom Apprentice participates in a Tool & Die apprenticeship program, developing the skills and knowledge needed to become a Tool & Die Maker through classroom instruction, on-the-job training, skill assessments, and other required training. Under the direction of experienced Tool & Die Makers, the apprentice learns to interpret technical documents, operate precision machine tools, use measuring instruments, and assist with tooling fabrication, maintenance, repair, assembly, testing, and troubleshooting. The role supports toolroom and manufacturing operations while following safety procedures and working toward continuous skill development. The position involves working around machinery in a manufacturing or industrial environment. It requires prolonged sitting and/or standing, frequent walking, and occasional bending and reaching. The apprentice may need to lift and move objects weighing up to 50 pounds, using mechanical assistance or lifting devices as needed. Moderate noise is common, and occasional loud noise may occur; required PPE is provided and must be used as needed.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED equivalent.
Enrollment in or willingness to participate in a recognized Tool & Die/Machining apprenticeship program.
Demonstrated interest in developing a career in Tool & Die Making and precision machining.
Basic computer skills and ability to learn company systems and software.
Basic understanding of mathematics, measurements, and mechanical concepts.
Ability and willingness to learn to read blueprints, technical drawings, and machining specifications.
Ability to learn and properly use precision measuring instruments and machine tools.
Ability and willingness to learn proper machining, tooling, and toolroom practices through classroom and hands-on training.
Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing quality work.
Ability to follow written and verbal instructions and ask questions when clarification is needed.
Ability to learn and apply safety procedures when working around machinery, tools, and equipment.
Dependability, willingness to learn, and a strong work ethic.
Ability to work effectively with experienced Tool & Die Makers, supervisors, and other manufacturing employees.
Ability to sit and/or stand for prolonged periods throughout the work shift, depending on task requirements.
Ability to regularly lift and move objects weighing up to 50 pounds, with mechanical assistance or lifting devices as needed.
Ability to walk frequently between workstations, equipment, and other areas within the facility.
Ability to bend, reach, and perform other physical activities associated with operating machinery and handling materials.
Ability to work in close proximity to moving mechanical parts and machinery while maintaining awareness of surroundings.

Nice To Haves

Previous manufacturing, machining, maintenance, or technical experience.

Responsibilities

Learn to interpret blueprints, sketches, models, work instructions, and other technical documents used in toolroom operations.
Assist experienced Tool & Die Makers with fabricating, repairing, and maintaining dies, tools, gauges, jigs, fixtures, and other tooling components.
Develop hands-on skills in setting up and operating mills, lathes, grinders, and Wire EDM under the direction of experienced team members.
Learn and apply measuring and inspection techniques using micrometers, calipers, dial indicators, gauge blocks, and other measuring equipment.
Assist with assembling, testing, adjusting, and troubleshooting tooling and mechanical components.
Learn and follow tool and die maintenance, repair, replacement, and preventative maintenance procedures to support production and minimize downtime.
Assist with identifying tooling issues and making adjustments or repairs under the guidance of experienced Tool & Die Makers.
Develop knowledge of machining processes, materials, tooling, tolerances, and manufacturing methods through on-the-job training and related technical instruction.
Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area and properly care for tools, equipment, and materials.
Follow company safety policies, procedures, and required PPE standards.
Participate in the Tool & Die apprenticeship program, including classroom instruction, on-the-job training, skill assessments, and other required training activities.
Demonstrate continuous progress toward developing the skills and knowledge required of a Tool & Die Maker.
Perform other related duties as assigned to support toolroom and manufacturing operations.