Tool & Die Technician

HGC Industries is a worldwide leader in designing and manufacturing gaskets, sealing surfaces, and stamping. For over 50 years, our customers have trusted us to fulfill their advanced sealing & stamping requirements. We provide technical sealing and stamping solutions to customers around the globe through our excellence in engineering, technology, manufacturing, and customer service. Our mission is to create gaskets and components that satisfy the most complex manufacturing challenges and provide high-quality products and services to the world at a reasonable cost.

At HGC, our employees are the foundation of our success. We encourage our employees to use their strengths, expertise, and determination to deliver on our commitments and achieve individual growth. When you join HGC Industries, you become part of a diverse and collaborative team that drives beyond the ordinary and provides cutting-edge solutions.

JOB OVERVIEW:

The Tool & Die Technician supports HGC's mission by maintaining, repairing, and modifying tooling and dies to ensure consistent production of high-quality parts that meet internal and customer expectations. This individual will collaborate closely with Quality, Engineering, and Production teams to identify, troubleshoot, and implement effective solutions for tooling-related issues that could impact manufacturing timelines or part quality.

The Tool & Die Technician will also be responsible for executing tooling changes and adjustments as required to support ongoing production and customer requirements. A high level of experience with problem-solving related to tooling challenges is essential, along with proficiency in operating manual machining equipment, including manual mills, manual lathes, surface grinders, and common hand tools. Success in this role will be achieved through technical skill in tool and die maintenance, effective cross-functional communication, and a proactive approach to continuous improvement supporting HGC's production goals.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Accurately measure tools and components using high-precision instruments such as height gauges, calipers, micrometers, and depth gauges.
• Perform rework and repair of all steel tooling utilizing in-house equipment, including:
  • Manual mill
  • Manual lathe
  • Surface grinder
  • Standard hand tools
• Demonstrate a strong ability to interpret customer blueprints in order to verify tooling accuracy and ensure compliance with specifications.
• Troubleshoot machine and tooling issues at the point of use, identifying root causes and implementing effective solutions.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with Quality, Engineering, and Maintenance teams to support and execute in-house continuous improvement initiatives.
• Maintain and manage tooling improvement records through spreadsheet tracking systems, ensuring accurate and timely updates.
• Utilize the ERP system effectively to ensure full traceability, proper staging, and accurate status updates for all production tooling.
• Work collaboratively with cross-functional teams to determine task priorities and establish clear expectations for deadlines and deliverables.
• Participate in internal design reviews for new products, providing input on tooling requirements, feasibility, and performance expectations.
• Foster strong relationships across departments and team members to promote collaboration, support peer development, and drive organizational growth.
• Manage tooling repair tickets to improve turnaround time and efficiency.
• Perform other duties as assigned

REQUIRED SKILLS & ABILITIES:

• Proficient math skills, including applying basic math skills to solve more complex problems, often involving multi-step calculations and reasoning.
• Skilled in root cause analysis and hands-on problem solving of tooling and die-related issues
• Ability to read blueprints and identify non-conforming product
• Basic skills in Microsoft Office tools, including Word and Excel
• Ability to effectively manage multiple projects simultaneously
• Excellent time management skills and the ability to efficiently manage priorities and tasks based on importance
• Adaptability skills to effectively manage demands, frequent changes, delays, or unexpected events
• Ability to work self-sufficiently to ensure accuracy and quality of tasks

QUALIFICATIONS:

• High School Diploma/GED preferred
• 5+ years of tool and die experience required
• 5+ years of experience in a manufacturing facility preferred
• 3+ years of experience in automotive manufacturing - preferred
• Certified in Manufacturing CNC equipment - preferred
• Tool and Die Maker Trade Certifications - preferred
• Forklift Operator Certification - preferred
• National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS) Certification - preferred

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

• Standing for extended periods- 5-10 hours/day
• Walking for long periods- 1-5 hours/day
• Stoop, kneel, crouch, and crawl - Often
• Climbing on ladders, scaffolding, and/or stairs if needed - Occasionally
• Occasionally lifting, moving, and carrying up to 50 pounds

ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS: Manufacturing plant and office…