Tool Design Apprentice

Tool Design Apprentice (EDM)

Department

Engineering

Reports To

Director of Engineering

Job Summary

The Tool Design Apprentice (EDM) supports the Tool Design Engineers and EDM Department by assisting with the development, maintenance, and improvement of tooling used in powder metal manufacturing. This role provides hands-on training in tool design, EDM machining, CAD drafting, and manufacturing processes while learning to support process, product, and material development to meet customer specifications.

The apprentice works under the guidance of senior engineering staff and progressively develops the knowledge and technical skills necessary to become a Tool Design Technician.

Minimum QualificationsEducation

• High School Diploma or GED required
• Enrollment in or completion of a technical, trade, or associate degree program in Mechanical Engineering Technology, Manufacturing Technology, Tool & Die, Machining, CAD Design, or related field preferred

Experience

• Previous machining, manufacturing, CAD, or technical experience preferred but not required
• Internship, vocational training, or technical school experience is a plus

Required Skills

• Strong mechanical aptitude
• Willingness to learn EDM machining and tooling processes
• Basic computer skills
• Strong attention to detail
• Good communication skills
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings
• Strong organizational and time management skills
• Ability to work independently and within a team
• Positive attitude with a willingness to accept coaching and feedback

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

The duties and responsibilities listed below include, but are not limited to, the following. Additional duties may be assigned as needed.

• Report directly to the Director of Engineering.
• Work within the guidelines of the company's Business Management System.
• Wear required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) at all times.
• Learn EDM machine operation, setup, and programming under the direction of experienced personnel.
• Assist in creating and maintaining SolidWorks drawings.
• Learn MasterCAM programming for EDM applications.
• Assist with converting legacy drawings into SolidWorks.
• Help inspect incoming tooling to ensure conformance to engineering specifications.
• Assist with ordering replacement tooling and tracking vendor deliveries.
• Prepare tooling for shipment to outside vendors for fitting or repair.
• Support preventative maintenance and organization within the EDM Department.
• Assist Tool Design Engineers with process improvement and tooling development projects.
• Learn proper measuring techniques using:
• Micrometers
• Comparators
• Functional gauges
• Precision measuring instruments
• Maintain accurate documentation of tooling and engineering changes.
• Assist with maintaining tooling inventory.
• Participate in continuous improvement activities.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work environment.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Learning & Development Expectations

During the apprenticeship, employees are expected to develop proficiency in:

• Electrical Discharge Machining (EDM)
• SolidWorks
• MasterCAM Programming
• Powder Metal Tool Design
• Blueprint Reading
• GD&T Fundamentals
• Precision Measurement
• Tool Inspection
• Tooling Maintenance
• Manufacturing Documentation
• Continuous Improvement Principles

Physical Demands

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

ActivityFrequencyStandingFrequentlyWalkingFrequentlySittingOccasionallyLiftingOccasionally (up to 50 lbs.)CarryingOccasionallyBendingOccasionallyTwistingRarelySquattingRarelyClimbingRarelyReachingRarelyKneelingRarelyCrawlingNeverBalancingNeverPushing/PullingRarelyUse of Hands/FingersConstantlyHearingConstantlyCommunicationConstantlyVisionConstantlyDrivingRarely

Equipment Used

• EDM Machines
• Precision Measuring Equipment
• CAD Software
• MasterCAM
• Standard Machine Shop Equipment

Work Environment

• Manufacturing Facility
• Engineering Office
• Tool Room
• Machine Shop

Exposure to machine noise, moving mechanical equipment, lubricants, cutting fluids, and manufacturing environments is expected.

Career Progression

Successful completion of the apprenticeship may prepare employees for advancement into positions such as:

• Tool Design Technician (EDM)
• Tool Design Engineer
• Process Development Technician
• Manufacturing Engineer

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Bereavement leave
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Referral program
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person