Tool & Die Maker

Toolmaker - Progressive & Interlocking Dies

Compensation: $35-45/hr (negotiable based on experience)

Location: Fort Wayne, IN

Shift: Day Shift, Monday-Friday with overtime

Our client is a well-established manufacturer specializing in precision metal stamping and toolmaking for high-performance components. They serve a variety of industries, producing complex dies and tooling systems used in everything from electrical connectors to motor assemblies.

Position Overview

We are seeking a highly skilled Tool Maker with deep experience in die building, maintenance, and troubleshooting. This role is ideal for someone who can hit the ground running with minimal oversight and thrives in a collaborative, hands-on environment.

Candidate Profile

Experience Requirements

Minimum: 5 years of hands-on die experience with strong technical depth

Ideal: 10+ years - ready to work independently from day one

Must have experience with:

Manual machining

Toolmaking: building, altering, troubleshooting

Preferred but not required: CNC machining experience Die & Tooling Expertise

Strong experience with progressive and interlocking dies

Proven ability to build lamination dies, including 3D-forming dies

Candidates with progressive die experience for single laminations are acceptable

Must be able to:

Disassemble, troubleshoot, and reassemble dies

Make tooling alterations for product or process changes

Run initial setups and engage with quality lab as needed

Speak confidently about progressive interlocking dies

Preferred Background

Apprenticeship training is a strong plus, especially with:

Wiring

EDM

Hard milling

Valuable experience includes:

Contract stamping environments

System plant die building companies

Tooling for terminal forming, rotor/stator components, and small electronic connectors (e.g., circuit board terminals)

High-Value Skills (Big Plus)

Mid to high-speed stamping: 500-1,000 SPM

(Highly desirable, but not required)

Disqualifiers

No die experience

Only general machining without hands-on die work

Job Responsibilities

Build and maintain:

Progressive and interlocking dies

Rotor/stator and terminal forming dies

Perform initial setups and production adjustments

Collaborate with quality assurance teams and other internal departments

Participate in a team of 10-15 experienced toolmakers

Support internal and sister company needs

Compensation & Benefits

Hourly Rate: $35-$45/hour

Benefits Include:

Medical, dental, vision coverage

2-3 weeks PTO

8 paid holidays

Note: This position does not offer a bonus structure

Ideal Candidate Traits

Demonstrated job stability - multiple years with previous employers preferred

Independent problem-solver with high mechanical aptitude

Strong team player with effective communication skills

If you're a seasoned toolmaker with extensive die and tooling experience, and you're ready to contribute from day one, we want to hear from you.