Apprentice Prototype Build Engineer Jobs in Illinois

Company Summary

Rockford Toolcraft Inc. is a local and family-owned manufacturing company in Rockford, IL. We are a leader in the heavy gauge metal stamping industry, specializing in designing and producing high-quality stamping dies and metal stampings. Established in 1976, Rockford Toolcraft has grown from a small tool shop into a modern operation with over 300 skilled employees and two state-of-the-art facilities. Our commitment to investing in people, technology, and equipment has earned us a strong reputation for quality, precision, and reliability.

Tool and Die Making is the foundation that Rockford Toolcraft was built upon! At Rockford Toolcraft, Tool and Die Makers can be found in all areas of our company including ownership, management, engineering, and on the bench.

Apprentice Role Description

This is a full-time, on-site Apprentice role located in Rockford, IL. As an Apprentice, you will work closely with experienced Tool and Die Makers to learn and develop skills in tool design and function, metal stamping concepts, and machining. Your day-to-day tasks will include supporting tool and die building and / or repair projects, maintaining equipment, operating manual machines, working alongside multiple departments, and ensuring quality in each step. This role offers hands-on training and development opportunities to build a strong foundation for Tool and Die career.

Apprentice Qualifications

• Mechanical aptitude
• Interest in creating and working with your hands
• Desire to complete college courses while also working full-time
• Strong problem-solving and critical thinking skills
• Attention to detail and commitment to producing high-quality work
• Ability to work collaboratively and take direction from experienced Tool and Die Makers
• Willingness to learn and operate multiple types of machines safely
• Good communication skills and a positive attitude toward learning new skills
• Previous experience in a manufacturing or technical environment is a plus but not required
• High school diploma or equivalent, with an interest or coursework in technical and mechanical fields
• Applicants must hold a valid driver's license to make deliveries

Apprenticeship Information

Rockford Toolcraft is looking for additional Tool and Die Apprentices! We have immediate openings available on our day shift. Our day shift is Monday - Friday from 5:00 am - 3:30 pm (10 hours) with occasional Saturdays. Rockford Toolcraft has been in business for 50 years! We have trained Apprentices throughout our entire history and have created an apprenticeship program that is well respected and sought after! We are also proud that we have NEVER had a layoff at Rockford Toolcraft!

Our Tool and Die Apprenticeship lasts about 4 years and requires successful completion of college courses and 10,000 hours of on-the-job training. Once the apprenticeship is complete, Apprentices receive their journeyman’s certificate and transition into a Tool and Die Maker here at Rockford Toolcraft! The college courses are paid for by Rockford Toolcraft. Hourly wages start at $18.00 and continue to increase every 1,000 hours worked as Apprentices progress through the program. Tool and Die Apprentices can reasonably expect to work around 40 – 55 hours per week.

Our Tool and Die Apprentices are well-supported by our staff in multiple departments, including CNC, Wire / EDM, Quality, and Engineering departments. We are also proud to offer up-to-date machinery and technology to help our Tool and Die Apprentices have success in their role.

Company Benefits Overview

We are proud of all our employees in each of their respective roles, and so we are also proud to offer a full benefit package, which includes:

- Medical, Dental, Life, and Vision Insurance

- Company-paid long- and short-term disability

- Company-paid life insurance

- Opportunities to advance

- Annual performance and wage reviews

- Vacation pay that includes overtime

- 11 Paid Holidays

- Overtime earned after 8 hours every day (no 40-hour minimum)

- 401k Plan (Roth and Pretax options)

- 401k Match – No vesting schedule

- Weekly paychecks

- 0% Interest loans for purchasing tools

- Consistent hours and overtime

- Company events

…and more!

We would love to have a discussion to see how easy we can make your transition to this new opportunity at Rockford Toolcraft! Don't let this opportunity pass you by! Apply Now!