Tool and Die Machinist
9 days ago
Fort Worth
Job Description Role Overview We are seeking an experienced Tool & Die Machinist to support precision manufacturing operations through the build, maintenance, and continuous improvement of tooling, fixtures, and custom components. This role plays a critical part in supporting both production and process development efforts by delivering high-accuracy machined parts, maintaining tight tolerances, and collaborating closely with engineering teams to improve manufacturability and performance. This position is well suited for a hands-on machinist who takes pride in craftsmanship, understands tooling lifecycle management, and enjoys contributing to complex, evolving manufacturing environments. Key Responsibilities • Set up and operate manual and CNC lathes to machine shafts, journals, and threaded features while maintaining specified tolerances, concentricity, and surface finishes., • Perform milling, drilling, boring, and tapping operations using manual and CNC milling equipment, including precision layouts and hole patterns., • Execute surface, OD/ID grinding, and honing processes to achieve critical dimensional and finish requirements., • Manufacture, repair, and improve tools, dies, fixtures, gauges, and specialty tooling used in production and pilot environments., • Inspect, refurbish, and requalify tooling by disassembling, cleaning, evaluating wear, performing repairs as needed, and restoring critical features through regrinding, honing, lapping, or stoning., • Maintain accurate tooling records, including refurbishment history, dimensional checks, and tool life tracking., • Interpret engineering drawings, GD&T callouts, and models to verify specifications prior to and during machining operations., • Program, set up, and validate CNC machining jobs using conversational controls or CAM software, selecting appropriate tooling, feeds, speeds, and workholding methods., • Conduct in-process and final inspections using precision measurement tools such as micrometers, bore gauges, indicators, height gauges, pins, and optical comparators; utilize CMMs when available., • Achieve and document tight tolerances on critical features, including high-precision shaft and bore fits., • Assemble and trial tooling, diagnose functional issues, and make necessary adjustments to ensure proper performance., • Collaborate with engineering teams on prototypes, design changes, and continuous improvement initiatives, providing practical input on manufacturability and assembly., • Support toolroom organization, machine upkeep, and inventory of tooling and consumables; coordinate external services such as heat treating or coatings when required., • Accurately record labor, work orders, and maintenance activity in the maintenance management system., • Adhere to all safety standards, including machine guarding, lockout/tagout procedures, and PPE requirements, while actively participating in safety improvement efforts. Required Qualifications • High school diploma or equivalent., • Minimum of five years of hands-on experience in a toolroom or precision machining environment supporting industrial or manufacturing operations., • Strong proficiency with manual lathes and mills, as well as surface and cylindrical grinding; capable of setting up and operating CNC equipment., • Advanced ability to read and interpret blueprints, GD&T, fits, and tolerance schemes., • Demonstrated skill with precision measurement tools and standard metrology practices., • Comfortable operating shop equipment such as overhead cranes and forklifts, with the ability to obtain required certifications., • Experience documenting work and quality results using shop systems and standard computer tools. Preferred Experience • Exposure to wire EDM, sinker EDM, jig grinding, or hard turning processes., • Experience machining a variety of tool steels and alloys, along with coordinating heat treatment and surface coatings., • Familiarity with CAD/CAM platforms such as Mastercam, Fusion 360, or similar software., • Experience supporting prototype builds and engineering change activities., • Background in fixture design, workholding solutions, and tooling refurbishment processes., • Working knowledge of CMM inspection or SPC methods.