Die Shop

Die Polisher/Corrector – Aluminum Extrusion

Job Summary

The Die Polisher/Corrector inspects, repairs, and maintains the extrusion dies used to shape aluminum profiles. Working in the die shop, this role collaborates with supervisors, press operators, and quality-control teams to diagnose and resolve die-performance issues. Technical expertise, precision, and a strong understanding of the aluminum extrusion process are essential to maximizing die life and maintaining production efficiency.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Die Analysis and Correction

• Inspect samples of extruded aluminum to diagnose dimensional inaccuracies, flow inconsistencies, and surface defects.
• Use precision measuring instruments (calipers, micrometers, gauges) and accurately read and interpret results to verify die dimensions against design specifications.
• Determine and perform the repairs or modifications needed to restore dies to specifications.

Die Maintenance and Repair

• Correct and polish die bearings, feeder plates, and other tooling surfaces using hand tools and pneumatic grinders to improve metal flow.
• Perform routine maintenance, including caustic cleaning to remove aluminum buildup and nitriding to increase die hardness.
• Disassemble and reassemble multi-part die assemblies.
• Inspect tooling for stress cracks, excessive wear, or damage and carry out necessary repairs.

Data and Process Management

• Document die corrections and maintenance history in the plant’s computer system.
• Partner with press operators and managers to troubleshoot die problems during production.
• Communicate recommendations for improvements or design changes for future dies.

Safety and Equipment

• Operate and maintain die-shop equipment such as mills, sandblasters, and caustic systems.
• Safely operate forklifts and other material-handling equipment to move dies to and from the press line.
• Follow all company safety policies and procedures, especially when working with hand tools, heavy equipment, and caustic chemicals.

Qualifications

Education

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Technical training or an associate degree in manufacturing or a related field is a plus.

Experience

• Several years of hands-on experience in die correction and polishing within the aluminum extrusion industry preferred.
• Advanced roles typically require 5 years of experience.

Skills

• Strong mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints and technical drawings.
• Proficient in both using and correctly reading precision measuring tools (calipers, micrometers, gauges, dial indicators).
• Knowledge of metallurgy and metal flow dynamics.
• High attention to detail and ability to perform precise work.
• Effective communication and teamwork skills.
• Forklift certification or ability to become certified preferred.

Physical Demands

• Ability to lift up to 75 pounds.
• Stamina for extended standing, walking, bending, and kneeling.
• Comfort working in a manufacturing environment with moving mechanical parts, varying temperatures, and high noise levels.