Assembly Tooling Builder -- CNC/Welding Specialist

Job Description

Job Description

Assembly Tooling Builder — CNC/Welding Specialist (Direct Hire, Auburn Hills)

Picture this: A production team needs a custom fixture to hit tolerance by Friday. You dive into the blueprint, rough out a plan, cut and machine critical features, fabricate the frame, and iterate until the gauge reads dead-on. That’s the impact you’ll make at a leading Tier 1 automotive supplier—where ideas become tools and tools keep the lines moving.

Our Mission

Build better, safer, and smarter assembly solutions. You’ll contribute by designing, fabricating, and validating tooling and prototypes that meet demanding specifications—while teaching others and continuously improving how we work.

What You’ll Do

• Construct tooling and related prototypes to specification for assembly operations; iterate designs until acceptance metrics are met.
• Plan the build: compute dimensions, lay out work, and determine the sequence of operations for efficiency and accuracy.
• Run the machines: lathes, Bridgeport, mills, grinders, drill press, CNC, band saws; finish to precise dimensions.
• Fabricate and weld components (MIG required; TIG a plus) and join assemblies using bolts, pins, clamps, screws, rivets, and other methods.
• Fit, align, and assemble components; verify with precision measuring equipment.
• Test and calibrate parts/mechanisms; identify units that fail tests or tolerance and repair as necessary.
• Diagnose build issues, debug newly built tools, and implement irreversible corrective actions on quality problems.
• Research, develop, and design assembly processes and equipment; evaluate methods with vendors and operators; document learnings.
• Track all deliverables—outsourced, purchased, in-house builds—to ensure final product delivery.
• Create clear written inputs for design reviews, proposals, specifications, work standards, and business processes.
• Collaborate closely with the Shop Manager on progress; follow priorities set by the department manager.
• Maintain and update design records; protect confidential information and advise others on potential breaches.
• Promote safety and housekeeping at every step; complete QMS-required forms, documents, and reports on time.
• Teach, mentor, and share best practices; draft sketches and instructions for others; drive continuous improvement.
• Represent the company professionally with customers and suppliers; assist in maintaining inventory levels in the build shop.
• Perform all other duties as assigned.

What You Bring

• High School Diploma or GED.
• 2+ years of experience in automotive prototype, tooling, or machine building; pneumatic or electrical experience is a plus.
• Expert blueprint reading; able to machine parts to print and recognize when a print is not buildable as drawn.
• Ability to fabricate weldments and machine details from prints and to build on the fly from verbal direction or hand sketches.
• Strong analytical ability and a creative, “let’s try it” problem-solving approach.
• Knowledge of assembly processes and operations (sequencing, sub-assembly, shipping/receiving, tooling).
• Proficiency with SolidWorks and/or AutoCAD; comfortable marking up “as built” prints; Microsoft Word and Excel skills.
• Algebra and geometry proficiency; strong written and verbal communication.
• Independence with minimal direction; ability to multitask under pressure and meet deadlines.
• End-of-shift cleanup and organization; strict adherence to PPE and safety guidelines; positive, team-oriented attitude.
• Valid driver’s license and personal vehicle.

Tools of the Trade

• Hand drill, angle grinder, Metabo, chop saw, horizontal band saw, drill press.
• Bridgeport, mills, lathes, grinders, CNC.
• MIG welding (TIG a plus); drilling, tapping; general assembly.

Travel

Moderate travel required.

Compensation & Benefits

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