Tool and Die Maker Apprentice

Job Description

Job Description

Why Work with Us?

Meaningful Work – At Cadence, “do the right thing” is more than just a corporate motto; it’s our guiding principle and way of life. You can be proud of the fact that what you do every day improves lives.

Innovation at Heart – Join a team at the forefront of technological advancements in the medical device industry.

Collaborative Environment – Work with passionate and talented individuals dedicated to making a difference in patient outcomes.

Position Purpose

The Tool & Die Apprentice position is designed to provide hands-on training and development for individuals pursuing a career in tool and die making. Apprentices will work under the supervision of experienced Tool & Die Makers to learn how to build, repair, and maintain precision tools, dies, jigs, fixtures, and molds. This role supports production by assisting with machining, blueprint interpretation, quality control, and troubleshooting, while adhering to state program regulations and company standards.

Key Responsibilities

Blueprint Interpretation : Learn to read and understand engineering drawings and specifications.

Machining Skills : Assist in operating lathes, milling machines, grinders, and CNC equipment to shape and form parts.

Assembly & Fitting : Participate in assembling and fitting components for tools, dies, and molds.

Inspection & Quality Control : Support testing and inspection activities to ensure finished tools and dies meet required specifications.

Maintenance & Repair : Assist in maintaining and repairing tools and dies, extending their lifespan.

Troubleshooting : Learn to identify and resolve issues with tools, dies, and molds in the production process.

Collaboration : Work closely with Tool & Die Makers, engineers, and production teams to support workflow.

Documentation : Keep accurate records of training activities, projects, and modifications.

Safety Compliance : Follow all safety procedures and use required PPE.

Continuous Learning : Engage in classroom instruction, workshops, and on-the-job training to build technical knowledge and skills.

Required Skills & Experience

Enrollment in or completion of a Tool & Die Apprenticeship Program (state-approved).

Strong mechanical aptitude and interest in precision machining.

Ability to read and interpret technical drawings (or willingness to learn).

Basic computer skills; familiarity with CAD / CAM software a plus.

Strong manual dexterity, hand-eye coordination, and attention to detail.

Commitment to safety protocols and learning advanced machining practices.

Willingness to work with different materials, machine setups, and evolving technologies.

Physical Demands

Extended standing and manual precision tasks.

Ability to lift, position, and secure heavy workpieces or tools.

Visual inspection of fine details for quality assurance.

Stamina to sustain focus during repetitive tasks and long shifts.

Career Path

This role is the entry point into a structured apprenticeship program, leading to journeyman certification and potential advancement into :

Tool & Die Maker I–III

This role is ideal for individuals who are eager to start a career in precision manufacturing and want to learn directly from experienced Tool & Die professionals while contributing to meaningful, life-improving work.