Experienced Toolmaker (Sign-On Bonus)!

Toolmaker (Experienced)

Header Die & Tool – Rockford, IL
Pay Range: $25 - $32 per hour
Sign-On Bonus: $2,500 total (paid in installments)

Are you an experienced Toolmaker who takes pride in precision craftsmanship and solving complex problems? Header Die & Tool is hiring skilled Toolmakers who can independently design, build, troubleshoot, and improve the high-performance precision tooling our customers rely on across demanding industries. In this role, experienced Toolmakers play a critical part in delivering quality tooling safely, accurately, and on time while mentoring others and contributing to process improvements.

Alongside a generous sign-on bonus of $2,500 (paid in installments), Header offers weekly pay every Friday, a consistent first-shift schedule, and a clean, air-conditioned shop. If you value ownership, high standards, and a shop where your expertise is respected, this is the place for you

What You’ll Do

• Design, fabricate, and repair precision tools, dies, and fixtures according to specifications
• Study blueprints to determine materials required and machines needed to manufacture carbide inserts and die assemblies
• Compute dimensions and determine die assembly methods and sequence of operations when not stated on routing
• Set up and operate manual machine tools including lathes, extrude hones, OD/ID grinders, surface grinders, and reamer grinders
• Perform grinding and polishing of carbide components to ensure precision tolerances and proper surface finishes
• Verify dimensions using micrometers, dial indicators, comparators, and other measuring instruments
• Inspect completed work using appropriate inspection methods based on part complexity
• Troubleshoot tooling issues and contribute to process improvements
• Maintain clean machines and organized work areas
• Follow safety and quality standards — and help improve them when needed
• Contribute to a clean, safe, and team-oriented work environment
• Any/all duties as assigned

What You Bring

• Proven experience as a Toolmaker in a precision manufacturing environment
• Strong blueprint reading and tolerance interpretation skills
• Ability to independently set up and run manual equipment
• Advanced problem-solving and troubleshooting abilities
• High attention to detail and pride in workmanship
• Strong mechanical aptitude
• Reliable attendance and punctuality
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Willingness to take ownership, suggest improvements, and lead by example

Why Header Die & Tool

✅ Competitive pay: $25-$32 per hour, based on experience
✅ $2,500 sign-on bonus paid in two $1,250 installments after 90 and 180 days of employment
✅ Full-time | First shift | Monday–Friday | Consistent 50 hours- 10 hour shifts
Start time between 5:00–6:00 AM, typically ending between 3:30-4:30 PM
✅ Weekly pay every Friday
✅ PTO begins accruing on your first day
✅ 12 paid holidays, including your birthday
✅ Monthly profit-sharing bonus
✅ 401(k) with company match
✅ Health, dental, and vision insurance
✅ Company-paid short- and long-term disability
✅ Company-paid life insurance voluntary options
✅ Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
✅ Employee Assistance Program
✅ Monthly access to a professional/personal development coach
✅ Free snacks, coffee, and soda
✅ Recognition programs including King of the Shop, WINS, and the annual Tom Derry Award
✅ Clean, air conditioned, and safe shop guided by our 27 Fundamentals
✅ Hands-on training and mentorship from experienced toolmakers

Our Culture

Header Die & Tool is a family-owned, fast-growing manufacturing leader known for precision, quality, and innovation. What started as a small operation has grown into a respected provider of tooling solutions trusted by companies in many industries.

We’re big enough to offer stability, resources, and modern technology—but small enough that your work truly matters. Here, you’re not a number. You’re part of a high-performance team where ideas are heard; growth is encouraged, and people genuinely support each other. Our culture is guided by 27 Fundamentals that shape how we communicate, solve problems, treat our customers, and show up for one another every day.

If you’re looking for a place where you can take pride in your work, develop your skills, and help shape the future of a company that keeps investing in its people, Header Die & Tool is where you’ll want to be.

Physical Requirements

• Standing for extended periods
• Bending, reaching, and repetitive hand movements
• Lifting materials up to 50 lbs
• Ability to see up close and at a distance, including peripheral vision and depth perception
• Walking throughout the workday

Ready to Join the Team?

Apply today or send your resume to hr@header.com

Disclaimer

The statements above are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to the job. They are not construed to be an exhaustive list of responsibilities, duties and skills required of personnel in the job. Furthermore, they do not establish a contract for employment and are subject to change at the discretion of the employer.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $25.00 - $32.00 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Employee discount
• Flexible schedule
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid jury duty
• Paid time off
• Referral program
• Tuition reimbursement
• Vision insurance

Application Question(s):

• Which machines can you independently set up and operate without assistance?
• Briefly describe the types of tools, dies, or components you have personally built, repaired, or modified. Please include whether the work involved round or cylindrical parts, the materials used, and the machines you independently operated.

Experience:

• Tool & Die Making: 3 years (Required)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $25 - $32