Job Details

Machine Operator - Journeyman/Toolmaker July 1, 2025

D115

Located in Watkins Glen, NY

Pay: 18.00-23.00

Job Full Description

Job Title: Machine Operator – Journeyman Toolmaker
Location: Watkins Glen, NY 

 


Position Summary:

We are seeking an experienced Journeyman Toolmaker to join our precision manufacturing team. This role is ideal for a highly skilled individual with extensive hands-on machining experience and deep expertise in toolmaking. You will be responsible for fabricating, assembling, repairing, and operating precision tools, dies, molds, jigs, and fixtures essential for high-accuracy manufacturing.


Key Responsibilities:

1. Tool & Die Fabrication

  • Build and repair precision tools, dies, molds, and fixtures from blueprints or CAD files.

  • Work with a variety of materials including hardened steel, aluminum, carbide, and engineering plastics.

2. Machine Operation

  • Operate both manual and CNC machines, including mills, lathes, EDMs, and grinders.

  • Perform setups, calculate feeds/speeds, and ensure machining accuracy.

3. Blueprint & CAD Interpretation

  • Interpret complex drawings using GD&T.

  • Translate engineering designs into precision tooling using manual and CNC methods.

4. Inspection & Quality Control

  • Inspect components using micrometers, indicators, height gauges, and CMMs.

  • Verify critical tolerances, often within ±0.0001".

5. Tool Maintenance & Troubleshooting

  • Diagnose and repair damaged or worn tooling.

  • Perform hand-fitting, polishing, and fine-tuning for optimal tool performance.

6. Team Collaboration

  • Work closely with engineering, production, and quality teams.

  • Provide feedback on tool design and manufacturability to improve process outcomes.


Common Equipment Used:

  • Manual/CNC mills and lathes (e.g., Bridgeport, Haas, Okuma)

  • Surface and cylindrical grinders

  • Wire and sinker EDM machines

  • Jig borers and precision boring mills

  • CAD/CAM software (Mastercam, Fusion 360, SolidWorks)

  • Precision hand tools and layout instruments


Required Skills & Qualifications:

  • Journeyman Tool & Die Maker Certification (from a recognized apprenticeship or union)

  • Strong knowledge of toolmaking, machining, and material properties

  • Proficiency in manual and CNC machining techniques

  • Advanced blueprint reading and GD&T interpretation

  • High attention to detail and accuracy in measuring and inspection

  • Effective problem-solving and organizational skills


Preferred Certifications:

  • NIMS Machining or Toolmaking Certifications

  • OSHA 10/30-Hour General Industry Safety Training

  • CAD/CAM proficiency (Mastercam, Fusion 360, or SolidWorks)


Industries Employing Toolmakers:

  • Automotive (tooling, stamping, injection molds)

  • Aerospace & Defense

  • Medical Device Manufacturing

  • Precision Mold & Tool Shops

  • Consumer Goods & Appliance Manufacturing


Career Growth Opportunities:

  • CNC Programmer

  • Toolroom Supervisor

  • Mold or Die Designer

  • Quality Assurance Technician

  • Manufacturing Engineer

Corning, NY
2583
11849 East Corning Road
Suite 101
Corning, NY 14830

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