Precision Tooling Fabricator -- Automotive Prototyping

Job Description

Job Description

Precision Tooling Fabricator — Automotive Prototyping (Direct Hire)

Join a large Tier 1 automotive supplier in Auburn Hills as a direct-hire team member with great benefits. You’ll turn concepts into production-ready tooling and prototypes that keep assembly lines running smoothly.

A Day in the Life

Morning starts at your bench: you review blueprints and MBD models, map out dimensions, and determine the build sequence. By midday you’re switching between a Bridgeport, lathe, grinder, and weld station—cutting, shaping, and fitting components to exacting tolerances. In the afternoon you’re calibrating mechanisms, debugging a new tool that’s not hitting spec, updating the design database, and briefing the Shop Manager on progress and next steps. Throughout, safety and housekeeping keep your area clean and compliant.

What You’ll Build and Own

• Build tooling and related prototypes per specifications for assembly operations.
• Plan layouts, compute dimensions, and determine sequence of operations.
• Set up and run shop equipment (lathes, Bridgeport, grinder, mills, drill press, CNC, saws) to achieve precise dimensions and finishes.
• Fabricate and weld to produce/assemble tooling components; join parts using bolts, pins, clamps, screws, rivets, and other methods.
• Fit, align, assemble, and verify conformance with precision measuring instruments.
• Repair or rework tools; test and calibrate parts and mechanisms to meet tolerances and product specifications.
• Identify units failing tests or tolerance levels and correct as needed.
• Research, develop, and design assembly processes and equipment; collaborate with vendors and operators; test proposed methods and equipment.
• Track build deliverables (outsourced, purchased, in-house components) through to final delivery.
• Provide detailed written inputs for design reviews, proposals, specifications, work standards, and business processes.
• Iterate designs until acceptance metrics are met; lead problem solving and develop irreversible corrective actions on quality issues.
• Interface professionally with customers and suppliers; represent the company at all levels.
• Maintain design records; protect confidential information and caution others regarding potential breaches.
• Promote health and safety; maintain a safe, orderly work area and follow all procedures and regulations.
• Teach, share best practices, and contribute continuous improvement ideas; may create sketches and detailed build instructions for teammates.
• Complete forms, documents, and reports on time per the quality management system; help maintain inventory levels in the build shop.
• Perform other duties as assigned under the direction and prioritization of the department manager.

Tools, Tech, and Methods

• Operate hand/power tools: hand drill, angle grinder, Metabo, chop saw, horizontal band saw, drill press.
• Welding and fabrication: MIG required; TIG a plus. Capable of fabricating weldments and machining details from prints.
• Machining: Bridgeport, mills, lathes, grinders, CNC; skilled in drilling, tapping, and general assembly.
• CAD: SolidWorks and AutoCAD experience preferred; comfortable reading and marking up blueprints (“as built”).

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED.
• 2+ years of prototype, tooling, or machine-building experience in the automotive industry; pneumatic or electrical experience is a plus.
• Fluent blueprint reading; able to machine parts from prints and recognize when a tool cannot or should not be built to print.
• Ability to improvise and build tooling/machine details on the fly from verbal directions or hand sketches.
• Strong analytical/problem-solving skills and a “let’s try it” mindset that connects ideas to ideas.
• General understanding of assembly processes and operations (sequencing, sub-assembly, shipping/receiving, tooling).
• Computer literacy: SolidWorks, AutoCAD; Microsoft Word and Excel.
• Algebra and geometry competency.
• Clear verbal and written communication to convey intricate technical details to teammates and customers.
• Ability to multitask, work under pressure, and meet deadlines; work independently with minimal direction while staying safe and efficient.
• Daily end-of-shift housekeeping: return unused materials (fasteners, raw material, project books), and clean the work area.
• Use of PPE and adherence to safety guidelines; strong team orientation and positive attitude.
• Valid driver’s license and personal vehicle.

Travel

Moderate travel required.

Benefits

• Blue Cross Blue Shield Medical
• Delta Dental
• VSP Vision
• 401k Matching
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Paid Time Off
• Employee Assistance Program
• Additional Competitive Benefits