Master Model Maker Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Tool & Die Maker

The Tool & Die Maker is responsible for the design, fabrication, assembly, maintenance, and repair of precision tooling with an emphasis on weld fixtures, jigs, gauges, and special-purpose machinery. This role supports production and engineering teams by ensuring tooling is accurate, reliable, and optimized for manufacturing efficiency, quality, and safety.

Key Responsibilities

Tooling & Fixture Fabrication

• Build, modify, and repair weld fixtures, holding fixtures, inspection gauges, and assembly jigs.
• Machine precision components using mills, lathes, grinders, and CNC equipment.
• Fit, assemble, and verify tooling to ensure dimensional accuracy and function per engineering specifications.

Special Machine Support

• Fabrication, build, and integration of components for custom and special-purpose machines, including mechanical assemblies, pneumatic systems, and automation components.
• Collaborate with engineering to interpret machine designs, prints, and concepts to produce supporting tooling.

Blueprints & Engineering Collaboration

• Read and interpret complex drawings, 3D models, and engineering specifications.
• Provide manufacturability feedback to engineering for fixture design improvements.
• Work closely with welders, machinists, and maintenance personnel.

Maintenance & Continuous Improvement

• Troubleshoot fixture issues related to alignment, wear, repeatability, and ergonomics.
• Perform maintenance on existing tooling, documenting repairs and improvements.
• Recommend design enhancements to improve durability, accuracy, or ease of use for weld fixtures and machine tooling.

Quality & Safety

• Ensure all tooling and fixtures meet quality standards and support production requirements.
• Maintain a clean and safe work environment, following company safety policies and best practices.
• Verify fixture accuracy using measurement instruments (CMM experience is a plus).

Required Qualifications

• 2+ years of experience as a Tool & Die Maker, Toolmaker, or equivalent role.
• Strong background in building and maintaining weld fixtures, including locating schemes and clamping strategies.
• Proficiency in manual and CNC machining operations.
• Ability to read and interpret complex engineering prints.
• Experience with precision measurement tools (micrometers, indicators, height gages, etc.).
• Strong mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.

Preferred Qualifications

• AS or equivalent Technical college degree in Tool & Die or Advanced Machining.
• Knowledge of special machine assemblies, and pneumatic systems.
• Familiarity with CAD/CAM software or 3D model viewing tools.
• Welding experience or ability to perform minor weld repairs (optional but beneficial).

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs.
• Prolonged standing and performing hands-on fabrication tasks.
• Ability to safely operate shop machinery and power tools.

Competencies

• Precision and attention to detail
• Mechanical reasoning
• Collaboration and communication
• Root-cause problem solving
• Efficiency and craftsmanship