Tool Maker - Zeeland Area

Tool Maker | Zeeland, MI

Salary Range: $57,000 - $89,000 depending on experience

Are you a dynamic leader with a passion for precision tooling and creating high-quality dies and molds? The Pivot Group is dedicated to building meaningful connections and supporting community growth. We are collaborating with leading companies in Zeeland seeking experienced Tool Makers to drive results.

The Opportunity

We collaborate with manufacturing companies in the Zeeland region seeking Tool Makers. These employers partner with us because they want real insight into candidates—not just resumes. By joining our network, you gain access to roles worth considering.

Key Responsibilities

• Fabricate, machine, and assemble precision tools, dies, jigs, and fixtures from blueprints, sketches, or CAD models.
• Perform routine and preventative maintenance, as well as complex repairs on existing tooling to ensure optimal performance.
• Operate a wide range of manual and CNC machinery, including lathes, mills, grinders, and EDM machines, to achieve required specifications.
• Interpret complex engineering drawings, blueprints, and G-code to determine proper machining and assembly sequences.
• Utilize precision measuring instruments such as micrometers, calipers, and optical comparators to verify dimensions and ensure quality.
• Collaborate with engineers and production personnel to troubleshoot tooling issues and implement effective solutions.
• Select appropriate materials and heat treatment processes for tool components based on application requirements.

Recommended Qualifications

• Completed Tool & Die Maker apprenticeship or equivalent 5+ years of experience in a precision manufacturing environment.
• Proficiency in interpreting complex engineering blueprints, schematics, and Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T).
• Expertise in operating a wide range of precision machine tools, including manual and CNC mills, lathes, grinders, and EDMs.
• Skilled in the use of precision measuring instruments such as micrometers, calipers, height gauges, and optical comparators to ensure tight tolerances.
• Strong understanding of various metals, alloys, and plastics, their properties, and best practices for machining and heat treatment.

Bonus Qualifications

• Advanced proficiency with CAD/CAM software for tool design and CNC programming.
• Experience operating and programming advanced metrology equipment (e.g., CMM, optical comparators).
• Demonstrated understanding of Lean manufacturing principles or continuous improvement methodologies.
• Proficiency in various welding and fabrication techniques.

Job Titles That Should Apply

Toolmaker, Tool & Die Maker, Die Maker, Mold Maker, Jig and Fixture Maker, Precision Machinist, CNC Toolmaker, Tooling Technician, Prototype Toolmaker, Manufacturing Toolmaker

Why Pivot Group

The Pivot Group was founded by manufacturing professionals who've been on both sides of the hiring process. Our clients are strategic—they partner with us because they want real insight into their roles and the people filling them, not a stack of resumes. We focus on match-driven placements built around what actually matters: Commute, Compensation, Culture, and Career trajectory.

If you're ready to take the next step in your career and connect with a firm that values fit over speed, we invite you to reach out. The Pivot Group offers resources to support your search—market insights, resume feedback, and interview preparation. As our partnerships grow, we'll reach out with opportunities aligned with your goals. Thank you for considering this approach to career advancement.