Demo

Tooling Operator 3

Sterling Engineering
Columbia, SC Contractor
POSTED ON 12/31/2025
AVAILABLE BEFORE 1/29/2026
Title: Tooling Operator

Location: West Columbia, SC

Hire Type: Contract to Hire

Benefits: Insurance (Medical, Dental, Vision), PTO, and more!

Pay Rate: $24/hour

Schedule: 1st Shift

We are seeking a skilled and motivated Tooling Operator to join our team in West Columbia.

While the title is Tooling Operator, this role functions more as an assembly/light

machinist/shop position, supporting the Tooling Shop with hands-on fabrication, assembly,

and light machining tasks. The Tooling Operator will play a key role in producing and

maintaining custom parts, fixtures, and racks used on the assembly floor, as well as

assisting with re-machining components for maintenance and production support.

This is an excellent opportunity for someone with mechanical aptitude, shop experience,

and a passion for working with tools and machinery.

Job Duties:

  • Work within the Tooling Shop to fabricate and assemble parts, tools, fixtures, and

equipment to support production operations.

  • Operate hand tools and power equipment such as band saws, table saws, miter

saws, and other shop machinery.

  • Perform light machining using manual mills and lathes to produce or modify metal

and plastic components.

  • Interpret mechanical prints, blueprints, and work instructions to complete projects

accurately.

  • Assemble custom fixtures, racks, and parts used on the assembly floor.
  • Assist in re-machining parts or components for the maintenance department as

needed.

  • Maintain an organized and safe workspace while following all shop and company

safety protocols.

  • Collaborate with engineers, maintenance, and assembly teams to fulfill tooling and

production needs.

  • Perform basic maintenance on tools and equipment to ensure proper functionality.

Qualifications:

  • High School Diploma or GED required; Technical degree or trade certification in

machining, manufacturing, or related field preferred.

  • Minimum 1 year of shop experience using hand and machine tools.
  • Experience in automotive, welding, manufacturing, or aerospace industries is highly

desirable.

  • Familiarity with manual mill and lathe operations preferred.
  • Ability to read and interpret mechanical prints and schematics.
  • Basic knowledge of CAD or design software is a plus.
  • Strong mechanical aptitude, problem-solving skills, and attention to detail.
  • Reliable and team-oriented with a commitment to quality and safety.

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 : $24

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