The Die Corrector is responsible for inspecting, correcting, and maintaining aluminum extrusion dies to ensure high-quality output and consistent production. This includes troubleshooting die performance issues, repairing tooling to close tolerances, and communicating with production, scheduling, and vendors as needed. The role requires strong mechanical skills, attention to detail, and a solid understanding of die design and metal flow. The Die Corrector may also assist in the review and testing of new dies, maintain accurate die inventory records, and provide guidance to others handling die-related tasks.
- Inspect, troubleshoot, and correct dies based on production feedback and extrusion samples
- Use precision hand and bench tools to alter or repair dies to tight tolerances
- Identify issues such as poor metal flow, dimensional problems, or surface defects and implement corrective actions
- Maintain accurate die records, including status updates and feedback to toolmakers or die vendors
- Track and manage die inventory in the ERP system
- Support test runs of new or corrected dies as needed
- Communicate with Scheduling and Production when dies are ready for use and provide any special instructions
- Assist with receiving and inspecting new dies; participate in testing to confirm performance meets customer specs (if assigned)
- Train and support team members involved in die setup or handling
- Maintain a clean and organized die shop work area
- Assist with caustic prep and cleaning operations when necessary
- Follow all safety procedures and report unsafe conditions to supervision
- Participate in continuous improvement efforts related to die quality, downtime reduction, and process consistency
- High school diploma or GED required
- 3–5 years of experience in aluminum extrusion, with die correction experience strongly preferred
- Ability to read and interpret die prints and drawings (Imperial and Metric)
- Proficient with calipers, micrometers, bore scopes, and other precision measuring tools
- Hands-on experience using die shop equipment such as grinders, files, and milling machines.
- Basic computer skills; experience with EPICS is a plus
- Understanding of metal flow and die behavior
- Able to work independently with minimal supervision
- Strong attention to detail, safety awareness, and communication skills
- Comfortable working in a production environment and handling dies weighing up to 100 lbs with assistance
- Safety glasses
- Ear plugs or earmuffs (as required)
- Long pants
- Steel-toed shoes with metatarsal guards
- Manufacturing environment with exposure to heat and humidity (not weather-related)
- Work near moving mechanical parts and production equipment
- Exposure to caustic chemicals used in die cleaning
- Noise levels above 85 decibels; hearing protection required
- Fast-paced setting with changing production demands
- Frequent standing, walking, and reaching with hands and arms
- Use of hands to handle tools, dies, and small parts
- Stooping, kneeling, crouching, or crawling as needed during die work
- Lifting up to 50 lbs regularly; up to 100 lbs with forklift or team assistance
- Visual acuity for close-up die inspection
- Hearing sufficient to work safely in a noisy environment