What are the responsibilities and job description for the Tool and Die Maker position at IFab Corporation?
Job Summary:
The Tool and Die Maker will be responsible for designing, fabricating, assembling, and maintaining precision tools and dies used in the manufacturing of metal parts and components. This role requires expertise in metalworking, a strong understanding of machinery, and the ability to work with blueprints and technical drawings.
Key Responsibilities:
Skills and Qualifications:
Work Environment:
Education and Certifications:
Physical Requirements:
This role is crucial in ensuring the production of high-quality metal parts for various industries, including automotive, aerospace, electronics, and machinery manufacturing.
The Tool and Die Maker will be responsible for designing, fabricating, assembling, and maintaining precision tools and dies used in the manufacturing of metal parts and components. This role requires expertise in metalworking, a strong understanding of machinery, and the ability to work with blueprints and technical drawings.
Key Responsibilities:
- Tool and Die Fabrication:
- Design, build, and repair tools, dies, molds, and jigs according to specifications, blueprints, and drawings.
- Work with various metals (steel, aluminum, etc.) to create durable and functional tools for production.
- Use machine tools such as lathes, mills, grinders, and CNC machines to fabricate components.
- Blueprint Interpretation:
- Read and interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, and technical specifications to determine dimensions, tolerances, and features.
- Modify or adjust designs as needed to ensure compatibility with manufacturing processes.
- Precision Measurements:
- Use precision measuring instruments (calipers, micrometers, gauges) to ensure tools and dies meet tight tolerances and quality standards.
- Perform detailed inspections of tools and parts throughout the manufacturing process to ensure they meet design specifications.
- Assembly and Maintenance:
- Assemble tools and dies and ensure proper alignment, fit, and functionality before being used in production.
- Maintain and repair existing tools and dies, ensuring they remain in optimal working condition.
- Troubleshooting and Problem-Solving:
- Identify and troubleshoot issues with tools and dies that may affect the manufacturing process, making necessary adjustments to ensure efficiency.
- Collaborate with engineers and production staff to address problems related to tool functionality or product quality.
- Collaboration:
- Work closely with other production team members, engineers, and machinists to ensure that tools are optimized for production lines.
- Communicate any changes or improvements to the tooling process that could enhance productivity or product quality.
- Safety Compliance:
- Adhere to all safety regulations and company policies, ensuring a safe work environment while operating machinery and equipment.
- Maintain cleanliness and organization of the work area, and perform routine maintenance checks on tools and machines.
Skills and Qualifications:
- Technical Skills: Proficient in using machine tools (CNC machines, lathes, milling machines, etc.) and manual hand tools for metalworking.
- Blueprint Reading: Strong ability to interpret technical drawings, blueprints, and schematics.
- Precision Measurement: Skilled in the use of measuring tools (calipers, micrometers, gauges).
- Problem-Solving: Excellent troubleshooting skills and ability to find solutions to complex mechanical issues.
- Attention to Detail: Ability to maintain high standards of accuracy and precision in tooling work.
- Experience: Several years of experience in tool and die making, preferably in a manufacturing setting.
Work Environment:
- The work is typically performed in a metal manufacturing shop, which may be noisy and require the use of heavy machinery.
- Personal protective equipment (PPE), such as safety glasses, hearing protection, and steel-toed boots, is required at all times.
- The environment may involve standing for long periods, lifting heavy objects, and working in a fast-paced production setting.
Education and Certifications:
- High school diploma or GED, with additional technical training in tool and die making or machining.
- Certification from a recognized industry body (e.g., National Institute for Metalworking Skills – NIMS) may be preferred but is not always required.
Physical Requirements:
- Ability to stand, bend, and kneel for extended periods.
- Manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination for working with small tools and precision measurements.
- Ability to lift and carry heavy materials and tools, typically up to 50 lbs.
This role is crucial in ensuring the production of high-quality metal parts for various industries, including automotive, aerospace, electronics, and machinery manufacturing.
