Apprentice Operating Engineer Jobs in Watertown, WI

Richfield, WI | Full-Time | 1st & 2nd Shift Available

Earn a 15% Shift Premium on 2nd Shift

$42.00–$56.00 per hour

Every precision-machined component begins with exceptional tooling.

At Strohwig, our Toolmakers are master craftsmen who design, build, repair, and improve the tooling that keeps our manufacturing operation running at the highest level. From complex dies and fixtures to precision tooling for challenging aerospace and defense components, you'll work on projects that demand creativity, precision, and technical expertise.

If you're passionate about craftsmanship, solving complex manufacturing challenges, and building tooling that makes a difference, we'd love to meet you.

For more than 40 years, Strohwig has built a reputation for solving complex manufacturing challenges through advanced machining technology, engineering expertise, and skilled craftsmen.

Our 210,000-square-foot facility houses advanced CNC machining centers, EDM equipment, precision grinding, and the resources needed to manufacture tooling for some of the industry's most demanding applications.

You'll work alongside experienced engineers, programmers, machinists, and manufacturing professionals who appreciate craftsmanship and continuous improvement.

As a Journeyman Toolmaker, you will:

• Build, repair, modify, and optimize complex tooling, dies, molds, fixtures, and precision components
• Interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, CAD models, and specifications to manufacture tooling that meets demanding requirements
• Operate manual machine tools, CNC equipment, EDM machines, grinders, and lathes
• Assemble, fit, and adjust tooling components to achieve precise tolerances
• Inspect finished tooling using advanced measuring equipment to ensure quality and accuracy
• Troubleshoot tooling issues and implement improvements that increase reliability, productivity, and tool life
• Work closely with Engineering, Production, Programming, and Quality to support manufacturing success
• Lead continuous improvement initiatives involving tooling design and manufacturing processes
• Mentor Toolmaker I and II team members while sharing knowledge and best practices
• Maintain accurate documentation and support preventive maintenance efforts

• Five or more years of Toolmaker experience
• Five or more years working with molds, dies, or precision tooling
• Strong blueprint reading and machining skills
• Experience operating manual machine tools and CNC equipment
• Strong understanding of precision measurement and inspection
• Experience with tool assembly, fitting, and troubleshooting
• Ability to work independently while supporting team success
• Strong attention to detail and craftsmanship

• Journeyman Tool & Die Maker certification or equivalent apprenticeship
• Technical degree in Tool & Die or Manufacturing Technology
• Ten or more years of Toolmaker experience
• CAD experience
• Experience with EDM machining
• Experience manufacturing tooling for high-precision industries

We believe great employees deserve great benefits.

• Medical & Vision Insurance
• Company-Paid Dental Insurance
• Company-Paid Long-Term Disability Insurance
• Company-Paid Life & AD&D Insurance
• Supplemental Insurance Plans Available
• 401(k) with Company Match
• Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Unpaid Excused Absences
• Company-Paid Uniforms
• Training & Apprenticeship Opportunities
• Safety Shoe & Glasses Reimbursement Program
• Gym Membership Reimbursement Program

• Earn $42.00–$56.00 per hour
• 15% Shift Premium on 2nd Shift
• Build complex tooling—not repetitive production work
• Work with advanced CNC, EDM, and precision machining equipment
• Join a company that values craftsmanship and technical expertise
• Collaborate with highly skilled engineers, programmers, and machinists
• Stable, growing manufacturer serving aerospace, defense, energy, and other demanding industries
• Opportunities for continued technical growth and career advancement

Strohwig is a Wisconsin-based precision machining manufacturer specializing in complex components for the aerospace, defense, energy, and other high-performance industries. Through advanced manufacturing technology, engineering expertise, and exceptional craftsmanship, we solve manufacturing challenges that many companies simply can't.

If you're ready to put your craftsmanship to work building tooling that powers precision manufacturing, we'd love to have you on our team. Apply today!

Compensation details: 42-56 Hourly Wage

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