TOOL & DIE APPRENTICE

The Tool & Die Maker Apprentice is an entry-level position to train and prepare employees to be responsible for maintaining all tooling in the Plant. The Tool & Die Apprentice is responsible for assisting technicians and other roles within the maintenance department. This role will work under direct supervision of the Lead and Supervisor.  Position Responsibilities may include:  * Maintain tooling to ensure quality production parts  * Build Jigs & Fixtures  * Read and interpret prints and process instructions  * Troubleshoot tooling problems at the press  * Perform routine service of tooling and preparation of blocks and tooling blanks  * Perform component die maintenance and die assembly  * Read prints and job orders to determine dimensions and machine setup  * Set up and operate various machining and grinding equipment such as Mills, Lathes, and surface grinders in order to machine or grind components to precise specifications  * Verify conformance of finished work pieces to specifications using precision measuring devices such as micrometers, calipers, gauges, comparators, etc.  * Perform short production runs to prove new or repaired tooling  * Perform tasks to meet speed expectations without compromising quality  * Select feed rate, cutting speed, depth of cut and tooling to be used  * Use progressive tooling to run production on components  * Document and update die history and other work records  * Implement Engineering Changes on existing tooling  * Sharpening all tooling and maintaining proper punch entry and pass line heights  * Establish timing of stations on all progressive tooling, maintain all forming stations in tooling  * Operate all tool room equipment  * Build miscellaneous jigs, fixtures, clamps, and molds to achieve greatest operational efficiency for meeting high quality and production standards  * Follow all safety guidelines/procedures  * Maintain a safe, clean, and organized work area  * Perform additional projects/duties to support ongoing business needs  Nature & Scope: * Takes direction from lead/Supervisor and works within well-defined instructions  Knowledge & Skills: * Basic knowledge of Machine Shop Practices  * Good verbal and written communication skills  * Ability to read and use calibrated tape measures, micrometers, and dial calipers to identify standard and metric units based on ticket requirements  * Good hand-eye coordination and dexterity; ability to manipulate tools with both hands and stand for long hours  * Good with math, reading and interpret blueprints, using calipers, and good with computers  * Ability to perform basic troubleshooting of machine and tooling problems  * Maintain a clean and safe working environment  * Must be able to work well with other members of the department  * Previous trade school/mechanical training is a plus  * Ability to apply good judgment, strong work ethics, and integrity on the job  Competency: Experience: * 1+ years of experience working in a fabrication/machine shop, preferably in a high-volume setting  Education/Certification: * High school diploma or GED  * Previous trade school/mechanical training preferred  People Management: No Physical Requirements / Work Environment: * Must be able to perform essential responsibilities with or without reasonable accommodations  Reports To:  * Supervisor  The Company provides equal employment opportunity to all employees and applicants regardless of a person’s race, color, religion (including religious dress or grooming practices), creed, national origin (including language use restrictions), citizenship, uniform service member or veteran status, ancestry, disability, physical or mental disability (including HIV/AIDS), medical condition (including cancer and genetic characteristics), genetic information, request for protected leave, marital status, sex, pregnancy, age (over 40), sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, political affiliation, or any other characteristic protected by law. The Company will comply with all federal and state regulations and statutes pertaining to individuals with disabilities.