Tool & Die Machinist [Apprentice/Entry Level]

1st Shift Schedule, Monday-Friday

The Entry-Level Machinist is responsible for supporting tool and die shop operations by assisting with basic machining, tooling, fixture, die, and component work under the guidance of experienced machinists and toolmakers. While supporting Cableware is the main function of this role, the secondary function will be supporting Cabletech for their fixtures, jigs, and other required production support. This position operates and learns a variety of manual machine tools, including lathes, mills, drill presses, band saws, surface grinders, and other shop equipment to support manufacturing requirements. 

In addition to hands-on machining support, the Entry-Level Machinist develops foundational skills in blueprint reading, precision measurement, safe machine operation, part finishing, shop organization, and preventive maintenance. This role works closely with supervisors, other machinists, engineering, quality personnel, and production teams to build the technical knowledge required for long-term success in machining and tool and die work. 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities 

Tooling and Fixture Fabrication 

• Assist with the setup and operation of manual mills, lathes, grinders, drill presses, saws, and other shop equipment under supervision. 

• Support the production, repair, and maintenance of tooling, dies, fixtures, gauges, and precision machined parts. 

• Read and interpret basic blueprints, sketches, work instructions, and job travelers. 

• Measure parts using calipers, micrometers, indicators, height gauges, and other precision measuring tools. 

• Deburr, clean, finish, and prepare parts according to shop standards. 

• Load materials, organize tooling, and maintain a clean and safe work area. 

• Other duties and additional responsibilities as assigned by supervision or management.  

• Ability to manufacture, modify, and repair tooling, dies, machine components, and production equipment that meet engineering and quality specifications. 

Quality and Safety 

• Verify dimensions of machined parts using precision measuring instruments such as micrometers, calipers, indicators, bore gauges, height gauges, and other inspection equipment when required. 

• Maintain compliance with company quality standards and manufacturing specifications. 

• Follow all safety procedures, machine guarding requirements, and housekeeping standards of the company. 

• Participate in safety, quality, and continuous improvement programs. 

• Perform all work in a safe, efficient, and professional manner while meeting established productivity and quality expectations. 

• Comply with all ISO/AS quality management system requirements, departmental procedures, and regulatory standards. 

Maintenance and Support 

• Perform basic machine maintenance such as cleaning, lubrication, and inspection as directed. 

• Assist experienced machinists and toolmakers with troubleshooting tooling, fixturing, or work holding issues. 

• Assist production with tooling modification and creation. 

• Assist in production with manufacturing of hardware and modification of hardware. 

• Attend and actively contribute to scheduled team meetings. 

• Communicate effectively with supervisors, engineers, and coworkers regarding production schedules, equipment performance, quality concerns, and departmental activities. 

• Assist in monitoring product quality and process compliance to ensure established standards are maintained. 

Required Qualifications 

• High school diploma, GED, or equivalent preferred. 

• Interest in machining, tool and die work, manufacturing, mechanical repair, or skilled trades. 

• Basic math skills, including fractions, decimals, and measurement conversions. 

• Ability to follow verbal and written instructions accurately. 

• Strong attention to detail and willingness to learn precision workmanship. 

• Reliable attendance, positive attitude, and ability to work as part of a team. 

• Ability to work safely around machinery, cutting tools, oils, coolants, and metal materials. 

Preferred Qualifications 

• Vocational, technical school, or shop class experience in machining, manufacturing, welding, drafting, or mechanical trades. 

• Exposure to blueprint reading, precision measuring tools, CNC equipment, or manual machining. 

• Experience using hand tools, power tools, or shop equipment in a school, hobby, military, or work setting. 

• Interest in pursuing an apprenticeship or long-term career in machining or tool and die making. 

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities 

• Mechanical aptitude and curiosity about how tools, dies, and machines work. 

• Patience and focus when working with close tolerances and detailed instructions. 

• Problem-solving mindset and willingness to ask questions when unsure. 

• Good communication skills with supervisors, machinists, toolmakers, and quality personnel. 

• Commitment to safety, cleanliness, and continuous improvement. 

Physical Requirements 

• Frequently stand, walk, bend, kneel, and lift materials throughout the workday. 

• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds on a regular basis. 

• Ability to work around moving machinery, metal chips, cutting fluids, and production equipment. 

• Manual dexterity required to operate machining equipment and inspection tools. 

• Visual acuity sufficient to inspect precision machined components. 

• Must be able to wear required personal protective equipment, such as safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, and safety footwear. 

• Work is performed in a tool and die shop environment with exposure to machinery, metal chips, cutting fluids, coolants, oils, and shop noise. 

Success Factors 

A successful Entry-Level Machinist demonstrates safe work habits, reliability, attention to detail, willingness to learn, and consistent progress in machining fundamentals. This individual supports shop productivity by completing assigned tasks accurately, maintaining clean and organized work areas, communicating effectively with experienced team members, and developing the skills needed to contribute to tooling, fixture, die, and component manufacturing.