Tool Maker - Traverse City Area

Tool Maker | Traverse City, MI

Salary Range: $56,000 - $88,000 depending on experience

Are you a skilled professional with a passion for precision tooling and creating high-quality dies and molds? The Pivot Group is dedicated to building meaningful connections in the manufacturing community. We are collaborating with companies in Traverse City seeking experienced Tool Makers.

The Opportunity

We partner with manufacturers across Traverse City seeking Tool Makers who want more than a lateral move. These companies hire intentionally, and we connect them with professionals ready for roles that fit.

Key Responsibilities

• Fabricate, repair, and modify precision tooling, dies, jigs, fixtures, and gauges.
• Operate a variety of machine tools including manual and CNC lathes, mills, grinders, and EDM equipment.
• Interpret complex blueprints, schematics, and engineering drawings to ensure accurate production.
• Perform preventative maintenance and troubleshoot issues on existing tooling to minimize downtime.
• Inspect finished tools and components to ensure they meet precise specifications and quality standards.
• Select appropriate materials and apply relevant heat treatments for tool construction and longevity.
• Collaborate with engineering and production teams to optimize tool design and manufacturing processes.

Recommended Qualifications

• Completion of a recognized Tool and Die Maker apprenticeship or equivalent trade school certification.
• Proficiency in operating manual machining equipment (lathes, mills, grinders) and CNC machinery.
• Strong ability to read and interpret complex blueprints, schematics, and geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T).
• Expertise in using precision measurement tools such as micrometers, calipers, gauges, and optical comparators.
• Solid understanding of various metal properties, heat treatment processes, and tooling materials.
• Proven problem-solving skills for diagnosing, repairing, and optimizing tooling.

Bonus Qualifications

• Proficiency with CAD/CAM software (e.g., SolidWorks, Mastercam)
• Experience with advanced machining techniques (e.g., EDM, 5-axis milling)
• Strong understanding of Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T)
• Welding and fabrication experience for tool repair and modification

Job Titles That Should Apply

Tool and Die Maker, Die Maker, Mold Maker, Precision Machinist, CNC Tool Maker, Tooling Technician, Jig and Fixture Maker

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.