Tool Maker & Machinist

Laborup
Maryville, Tennessee
Full Time

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Overview

We're hiring for the tool repair and tool making shop of a well-respected automotive brand, supporting their plastic injection department.

As a Tool Maker, you will join a team of skilled tradespeople who truly contribute to the operationhandling everything from manual machining and precision grinding to laser welding and complex mold repairs. This is a traditional tooling environment that values versatility; we are looking for craftsmen who can toggle between the artistry of manual bridgeports and the technical precision of CNC programming. You aren't just a number here; you are a problem-solver ensuring our production keeps moving.

We believe that high-level machining doesn't require sacrificing your personal life. We are looking for people who value good work, good culture, and a healthy work-life balance. If you take pride in doing great work to support a timeless brand, this is the shop for you.

Compensation

Junior Level: $26 - $30 / hr
Senior Level: $29 - $34 / hr

Shift:

Standard 1st Shift
Monday Friday

Benefits:

Medical, dental, and vision insurance
Strong Paid Time Off (PTO) and Holiday package
Short and long-term disability
401k with company match
Stable work environment with a focus on work-life balance

Responsibilities:

Blueprint & Design Interpretation Work directly from concept drawings, GD&T drawings, and solid models to plan and execute complex builds.
Manual Machining Mastery Utilize Bridgeports, lathes, and jig bores to create angles, radii, and custom tooling with a focus on efficiency and surface finish.
CNC Operation & Programming Set up fixtures, manage tool changes/touch-offs, and perform dry runs; capable of programming and operating CNC milling and turning centers.
Precision Grinding Execute surface and OD grinding with manual grinders, holding tight tolerances down to .0001 for gauges and critical components.
Mold Repair & Maintenance Troubleshoot and repair injection molds based on feedback from the molding department, including changing mold versions, fixing parting lines, and maintaining existing dies.
EDM & Specialty Operations Operate wire and sinker EDM machines (manual and CNC) to create high-quality parts; utilize laser welding equipment for precision repairs.
Fixture Design Design and build repeatable production fixtures utilizing manual, pneumatic, and hydraulic clamping systems.
CAD/CAM Utilization Utilize SolidWorks to interpret models and MasterCAM to generate machine code from solids for efficient production.
Process Optimization Select optimal speeds, feeds, and depths of cut for both milling and turning to maximize efficiency and finish quality.

Qualifications:

Tooling Experience Experience levels ranging from 5-15+ years of experience all welcome, ideally within an injection mold toolroom environment.
Mechanical Aptitude Strong ability to troubleshoot machining processes, solve equipment problems, and collaborate with engineering on prototype tooling.
Software Proficiency Proficiency with CAD (SolidWorks) and CAM (MasterCAM) is highly preferred; must be able to navigate toolroom computer systems for tracking.
Math & Measurement Strong grasp of Algebra, Geometry, and Trigonometry; able to interpret bar graphs and calculate rate/ratio/percentages.
Versatility We need a little bit of everything. While you may not be an expert in every single machine listed, a willingness to learn and jump between manual, CNC, and grinding tasks is essential.
Communication Skills Must be able to read, write, and interpret English to adhere to quality standards and reporting requirements.
Physical Capability Comfortable working in an active shop environment, using hand tools, and lifting/moving materials as required.

Compensation