Tool and Die Maker/Machinist

Position Summary

Riverfront Machine is seeking a dependable and detail-oriented Tooling Associate to support tool room operations and production tooling needs. This role assists with the setup, maintenance, repair, and organization of tooling used in metal stamping, CNC machining, welding, and secondary operations.

The ideal candidate is hands-on, safety-focused, and eager to learn, with the ability to work closely with experienced toolmakers, maintenance, and production teams to ensure tooling is safe, organized, and production-ready.

Key Responsibilities

Tooling Support & Maintenance

- Assist with the setup, maintenance, and repair of stamping dies, fixtures, gauges, and tooling.

- Support tooling changes, die changeovers, and tool preparation for production runs.

- Clean, inspect, and prep tooling to ensure readiness and proper function.

Preventive Maintenance & Organization

- Assist with preventive maintenance tasks on dies, fixtures, and tooling.

- Help track tooling condition, usage, and maintenance history.

- Maintain organization and cleanliness of the tool room in accordance with 5S standards.

Production Support

- Work closely with production and tool room teams to support daily manufacturing needs.

- Assist with troubleshooting tooling-related issues during production.

- Transport tooling safely using appropriate equipment such as carts, cranes, or forklifts (if trained).

Safety & Quality

- Follow all safety procedures, including lockout/tagout and proper material handling practices.

- Ensure tooling meets safety and quality requirements before release to production.

- Report damaged tooling, safety concerns, or quality issues to leadership.

Continuous Improvement

- Participate in continuous improvement, lean manufacturing, and safety initiatives.

- Assist with tool room process improvements and standard work development.

Qualifications

Required

- High School Diploma or GED.

- Mechanical aptitude and interest in manufacturing or tooling.

- Ability to read basic blueprints, work instructions, or tooling documentation.

- Strong attention to detail and commitment to safety.

Preferred

- Previous experience in a tool room, manufacturing, or maintenance environment.

- Experience with metal stamping dies, fixtures, or machining tools.

- Forklift, crane, or hoist experience (or willingness to be trained).

- Trade school or technical training a plus.

Working Conditions & Physical Requirements

- Manufacturing and tool room environment.

- Ability to stand and work on the shop floor for extended periods.

- Ability to lift, carry, and manipulate tooling or components weighing up to 50 pounds (with assistance as required).

- Willingness to work overtime as needed to support production.

What Success Looks Like in This Role

- Well-organized, production-ready tooling.

- Reduced delays due to tooling preparation or availability.

- Safe handling and maintenance of tooling.

- Strong teamwork and willingness to learn and grow within the tool room.

Pay Transparency Notice

The pay range listed for this position reflects the base wage and is provided in compliance with Illinois law. Placement within the range is based on experience, skills, qualifications, and internal equity. Bonus eligibility, if applicable, is separate and based on performance and company criteria.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $20.00 - $27.00 per hour

Expected hours: No less than 40 per week

Benefits:

- 401(k)

- Dental insurance

- Health insurance

- Paid time off

- Vision insurance

Education:

- High school or equivalent (Preferred)

Experience:

- Tool and Die Machinist: 2 years (Preferred)

License/Certification:

- Journeyman License (Preferred)

Work Location: In person