Tool & Die (Apprentice )

Job Summary:

The apprenticeship program offers the opportunity to complete a State-Certified Apprentice Program and become a Registered Journeyperson – American Trim Tool and Die Maker.  This program includes training in our new in-house classroom and lab and requires demonstrated competency in key tool & die skillsets.  Additional requirements include a strong focus on safety and housekeeping, effective communication skills, and the strong desire to learn and contribute productively.

Under the direct supervision of the Tool & Die Supervisor, the Tool & Die Apprentice will develop the skills to build, repair and replace tooling for various machines and equipment safely and efficiently, ensuring the production of high-quality products.

Job Responsibilities:

Some of the duties the Apprentice will learn/train to do include:

• Perform preventative maintenance on dies, jigs, fixtures and transfer units, including repair, adjustment, sharpening, and routine upkeep.
• Execute engineering changes, tool revisions and die modifications as required to ensure optimal tool performance and production efficiency.
• Set up, operate and maintain service on tools such as lathes, milling machines, shaper and grinder to machine parts and verifies conformance of machine parts to specifications.
• Perform difficult and exacting machine operations requiring a variety of setups and methods to maintain close tolerances. 
• Change internal die parts to produce new part numbers.
• Troubleshoot problem dies, jigs, fixtures and transfer units.
• Use a variety of precision measuring instruments and hand tools of the trade.
• Select proper coolants and cutting oils for the work being performed.
• Read and interpret blueprints or works from verbal or written instructions for the part.
• Assist in maintaining inventory.
• Comply with all safety standards: Job Safety Analysis (JSA), Equipment Safety Analysis (ESA) and Area Safety Analysis (ASA).
• Ensure that job is run in environmental compliance after instructions from supervisor/environmental group.
• Perform routine housekeeping and improvements in work area(s) as necessary.
• Other job duties as assigned by supervisor or group leader.

Education, Skills and Experience:

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Commitment to completing the Registered American Trim Apprenticeship Program, which includes up to two years of combined classroom instruction, hands-on lab training, and on-the-job experience.
• Strong interest in hands-on work and problem-solving.
• Successful program completion will be determined by classroom performance and demonstrated competency through on-the-job performance.

License, Certification or Special Requirements:

• Dependability and reliability – demonstrates strong commitment to attendance, safety, productivity, effective communication, and maintaining housekeeping standards
• A high degree of precision and control in work
• Proficient computer skills
• High attention to detail and mechanical aptitude
• Ability to learn Statistical Process Control; Linear Measuring; Problem Solving
• Ability to read complex blueprints and other required documents
• Ability to be flexible and prioritize competing priorities
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Ability to work on all three shifts and cover call as scheduled.  May travel to various American Trim operational sites. 
• Must be willing to learn and be self-motivated

Work Environment and Physical Demands:

The following work environment and physical demands are representative of those required to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to:

• Repeated lifting and packing of items weighing 3 to 6 lbs.
• Occasional heavy lifting, up to 50 lbs. on a non-repetitive basis.
• Work with sharp tools and parts with sharp edges.
• Requires attention to detail during inspection processes.
• Must work effectively as part of a team.
• Requires standing, walking and/or continuous movement for periods exceeding one (1) hour.
• Perform repetitive motions, including turning and lifting.
• Work overtime as needed.
• Work under pressure to meet schedules, address personnel issues, and adapt to changing priorities.
• Collaborate with employees at all organizational levels.
• Perform job duties while wearing Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), including but not limited to eye, ear, and foot protection.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) must be worn including but not limited to: eyes, ear, foot and/or other protective devices as required. 

Forklift Certification:

This position requires company forklift certification. Employees must successfully complete a drug screening as part of the initial certification process and any required recertification process, in accordance with company policy.