What are the responsibilities and job description for the Die Shop position at Postle Operating LLC?
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.