Job Description: Precision Tooling Specialist, Progressive Dies
Location: Wood Dale, ILReporting Line: Tool Room Manager
Date: 10/12/22 Role snapshot
Own the build, maintenance, and repair of progressive stamping dies, fixtures, and precision tooling for continuous-run punch press operations. Provide hands-on machining, troubleshooting, and measurement expertise while supporting team members and driving continuous improvement.
Key responsibilities:- Interpret engineering drawings/blueprints; suggest design improvements when appropriate
- Machine close-tolerance metal components; construct fixtures; fabricate prototypes
- Receive, inspect, disassemble, clean, and repair dies; apply corrective actions to minimize repeat failures
- Plan machining sequences; set up and operate grinders, drills, mills, lathes, and hand tools
- Verify specifications and tolerances using micrometers, calipers, and fixed/adjustable gauges
- Move tooling using die lifters, lift trucks, and overhead/jib cranes; follow safe lifting methods
- Troubleshoot production lines, dies, and mechanical tooling; perform routine operator maintenance
- Lubricate machinery; check oil levels; grease fittings; maintain housekeeping standards
- Comply with all safety rules and PPE; keep a neat, organized work area; participate in safety activities
- Maintain repair, engineering change, and quality records; escalate or correct issues to protect quality and throughput
- Train and mentor others in machining techniques, die maintenance, and repair
- Recommend process and product improvements; propose revisions to customer designs to leverage existing tooling
- Manage inventory for spare die components and required supplies
- Complete documentation accurately and on time; comply with company policies including safety and attendance
- Engage in ongoing training and skill development; collaborate effectively to resolve daily issues
- Perform other duties as assigned to meet business needs
Qualifications:- Proficiency with assigned machinery and equipment, including CNC programs and control panels
- Ability to read Blueprints, Piece Prints, and GD&TAdvanced math skills: feeds, speeds, distances, print conversion, and geometry
- Competence with measuring tools: calipers, micrometers, thread gauges, etc.
- Understanding of machining properties across a range of raw materials
- Effective communication skills; follow and provide written and verbal instructions
- Physical requirements and environment
- Sedentary position
- Ability to travel by public and private transportation20/20 vision required with or without correction
- Use of hands during 100% of the workday
- Standing or walking approximately 25% of the workday
- Frequent twisting, bending, and leaning
- Office setting with occasional exposure to loud noise, dust, solvents, coolants, and oils
- Technical proficiencies
- Troubleshooting SkillsMetal Stamping & Forming (Progressive Die)
- Tool/Die/Mold Repair SkillsTool/Die/Mold Setup Experience
- Blueprint Reading
- Legal classificationFLSANon-Exempt
