Step into the Toolroom and Lead the Work
Picture your day starting with a quick stand-up : production priorities are set, forming tools are queued, and your toolmakers know exactly what’s coming next. You fine-tune the manufacturing schedule to keep forging operations on pace, then jump onto a CNC lathe or vertical machining center to demonstrate a setup that elevates both speed and precision. By midday, you’re reviewing workmanship, coaching for quality, and coordinating an outside contractor to service a grinder. In the afternoon, you interview a promising candidate, then finish a business case for new tooling technology that will boost capacity. You leave knowing tomorrow’s tools are ready—on time, on spec, and on budget.
Job Snapshot
- Compensation : $80,000–$100,000 per year (depending on skills and experience)
- Work Setting : Onsite — Savanna, Illinois
- Travel : 10%
- Position Type :
- Exempt, Salaried
What You’ll Lead
Own the end-to-end schedule for forming-tool manufacturing to meet production timelines and departmental commitments.Direct and mentor a team of toolmakers; oversee machining operations that support maintenance, engineering, and production.Lead by doing—comfortably operate CNC lathes, grinders, and CNC vertical machining centers to model best practices.Plan shifts, monitor output, conduct regular check-ins, and hold performance evaluations to sustain productivity and workmanship.Manage tooling cost drivers by optimizing internal processes while safeguarding quality and delivery targets.Schedule and coordinate external vendors for routine and emergency service on toolroom equipment.Support hiring—from interviews to selection—for roles within the tooling organization.Identify capability gaps and justify investments in equipment and know‑how to increase throughput, efficiency, and precision.Perform other duties as assigned.Skills That Set You Up for Success
Clear, effective written and verbal communication.Deep understanding of tooling and machining methods with strong troubleshooting ability.Team leadership that motivates, aligns, and delivers results across functions.Uncompromising attention to accuracy in design, build, and inspection.High proficiency with precision tools and machines; excellent hand–eye coordination for intricate work.Proven multitasker—manage several projects concurrently while allocating resources wisely.Strength in production planning, resource management, and workflow optimization.Qualifications
Technical degree preferred.At least 2 years in a leadership capacity within production or toolmaking.Physical Requirements
Manual dexterity for handling small parts.Frequent bending and stooping.Ability to push / pull up to 30 pounds.Comfort working in noisy environments.