Tool and Die Shop Manager

Title
: Tool and Die Shop Manager

Location
: Elk Grove Village, IL

Hire Type
: Direct Hire

Salary
: $90k-$125k/yr. based on experience

This role manages all daily operations of the tool and die shop while remaining fully hands-on in machining, troubleshooting, and toolmaking activities. The Tool and Die Shop Manager will supervise a small team of 10-20 employees (depending on temp staff), oversee workflow, ensure quality standards, and support continuous improvement across tooling processes. Responsibilities include designing and making tools for short-run/prototype work, setting up and troubleshooting kick presses, 4-slide, and punch press tooling, and performing precision grinding and machining. Strong leadership, technical expertise, and a self-directed work style are essential.

Job Duties
:

• Manage day-to-day operations of the tool and die shop, ensuring productivity, quality, and safety
• Supervise and develop a team of two toolroom employees
• Maintain a hands-on role in machining, toolmaking, troubleshooting, and repairs
• Design and make tools primarily for short-run/prototype work
• Set up and troubleshoot kick presses, 4-slide, and punch press tooling
• Perform precision grinding and oversee grinding work performed by the team
• Set up and operate milling and grinding machines
• Interpret blueprints and engineering drawings to determine machining processes
• Inspect finished parts using precision measuring instruments
• Troubleshoot tooling issues and drive corrective actions to reduce downtime
• Collaborate with engineers to optimize tool designs, processes, and production efficiency
• Lead continuous improvement efforts within the toolroom
• Maintain an organized, safe, and well-equipped tool and die department

Qualifications
:

• Proven experience as a Tool & Die Maker with strong hands-on machining and grinding capabilities
• Prior experience managing or leading a toolroom or small technical team
• Proficiency with milling and grinding equipment
• Strong understanding of machining principles, materials, and tooling processes
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings (GD&T)
• Strong attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and ability to work with minimal supervision
• Ability to lead by example and maintain a high-performance culture

Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information.

Salary : $90,000 - $125,000