What are the responsibilities and job description for the 1st Shift - Lead Tool Maker position at Staffing Support Specialists?
Job Title: Lead Tool Maker
Shift: 8-10-hour shifts / Flexibility with days/start times
Position Summary:
We are looking for a highly skilled Lead Tool Maker to join our team. In this hands-on role, you will work closely with Tool & Die Designers and the Engineering team to interpret designs and ensure manufacturability. This is an expert-level position without formal supervisory responsibilities. The Lead Tool Maker will leverage advanced technical skills to design, fabricate, and maintain high-precision molds, dies, and tooling. The role requires independent problem-solving, mentoring of junior tool makers, and providing leadership through technical expertise.
We are looking for a highly skilled Lead Tool Maker to join our team. In this hands-on role, you will work closely with Tool & Die Designers and the Engineering team to interpret designs and ensure manufacturability. This is an expert-level position without formal supervisory responsibilities. The Lead Tool Maker will leverage advanced technical skills to design, fabricate, and maintain high-precision molds, dies, and tooling. The role requires independent problem-solving, mentoring of junior tool makers, and providing leadership through technical expertise.
Key Responsibilities:
- Fabricate, fit, assemble, and maintain high-precision tools, dies, and injection molds according to finalized designs and specifications.
- Interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, and CAD data to ensure accurate tooling production.
- Perform precision machining, polishing, fitting, and assembly of mold components.
- Execute mold setup, sampling support, and adjustments as needed during production trials.
- Troubleshoot and repair molds and tooling to minimize downtime and maintain production efficiency.
- Perform detailed measurements and quality checks to ensure tools meet specifications.
- Recommend design or process improvements to enhance tooling performance and lifespan.
- Collaborate with the Tool & Die Designer and Engineering team to interpret design intent and ensure manufacturability.
- Maintain accurate documentation of tooling processes, maintenance, and modifications.
- Follow safety protocols and maintain a clean, organized work area.
- Direct workflow and responsibilities to toolmakers based on skill and workload
Qualifications:
- 5-8 years Extensive experience in tool and die making, mold making, or precision machining, ideally in plastic injection molding.
- Advanced knowledge of CNC and manual machining, EDM, grinding, and other toolmaking techniques.
- Proficient in using precision measurement tools and inspection equipment.
- Strong understanding of materials, heat treatment, and tooling wear.
- Ability to read and interpret complex blueprints, engineering drawings, and CAD files.
- Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
- Excellent communication skills.
- Ability to navigate and manage diverse personalities.
- Ability to work independently and take ownership of projects.
- Ownership of required tools is required.
- Leadership through technical expertise; mentoring skills a plus.
Preferred Skills:
- Journeyman Tool & Die maker certification or equivalent technical background
- Experience with mold repair, maintenance, and troubleshooting in a production environment.
- Familiarity with lean manufacturing or continuous improvement principles.
- Knowledge of tooling standards for plastics injection molding.
Physical Requirements:
- Ability to stand, walk and operate machinery for extended periods
- Lift and move up to 50lbs
Work Environment:
- Hands-on shop environment with exposure to machining, grinding, and molding equipment.
We are committed to a policy of equal opportunity for all employees. We seek to match you with opportunities that best match your skills and needs, and it is our policy to administer these activities in a manner which does not discriminate against or give preference to any person because of race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability, ancestry, sexual orientation, military service, marital status, arrest or conviction record, or any other discriminatory basis prohibited by state or federal law. All employees are required to have a proof of identity and authorization to work.