Minimum 5 years experience in Tool and Die making within a stamping or metal forming environment
Journeyman Tool and Die Maker certification or equivalent apprenticeship
Proficient with manual machining equipment: milling machines and lathes
Hands-on experience with wire EDM or sinker EDM processes
Skilled in reading complex engineering drawings and GD&T callouts
Strong understanding of tool steels and heat treatment processes
Ability to measure tolerances of 0.0005" or tighter
Responsibilities
Build and fit new stamping and progressive dies using engineering drawings and CAD models
Perform precision machining operations on CNC and manual equipment
Heat treat and temper tool steel components to meet specified hardness
Inspect finished tooling with precision measuring instruments
Troubleshoot and repair existing dies to restore them to production-ready state
Conduct die tryouts in stamping presses, adjusting for quality and dimensional accuracy
Collaborate with engineers on tool designs to enhance manufacturability and material selection
Benefits
401(k) retirement plan with competitive company match
Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance
Employer-paid life insurance and short-term disability
Generous paid time off policy based on tenure
Paid holidays and leave for various reasons
Tool allowance for personal precision instruments
Career advancement opportunities with training programs
Stable full-time position with a well-established company
Full Job Description
Job Summary
M.S. Willett Inc. - BLEMA North America is looking for an experienced Tool and Die Maker to design, build, repair, and maintain the precision tooling that drives our manufacturing operations. You will work from engineering drawings and CAD models to fabricate stamping dies, forming tools, jigs, fixtures, and gauges - applying a full range of machining, grinding, fitting, and assembly skills. For over 95 years, Willett has delivered advanced metal forming solutions from our facility in Littlestown, PA. As part of The Leonhardt Group, a family-owned German industrial enterprise, we serve as BLEMA's North American hub for engineering, service, and technical support. The tooling you build here runs in production lines across the continent, forming millions of metal containers every year.
Responsibilities and Duties
Build, assemble, and fit new stamping dies, progressive dies, transfer dies, and forming tools from engineering drawings, CAD models, and specifications
Perform precision machining operations on manual and CNC equipment including milling machines, lathes, surface grinders, jig grinders, and EDM (wire and sinker)
Heat treat, harden, and temper tool steel components to specified Rockwell hardness requirements
Inspect finished tooling using precision measuring instruments including micrometers, dial indicators, height gauges, CMM, and optical comparators
Troubleshoot, diagnose, and repair existing dies and tooling to restore production-ready condition, identifying root cause of wear or failure
Perform die tryouts in stamping presses, evaluate part quality, and make adjustments to achieve dimensional accuracy and acceptable surface finish
Collaborate with design engineers on new tool concepts, providing input on manufacturability, material selection, and assembly sequence
Maintain detailed records of die builds, repairs, modifications, and spare parts inventory
Train and mentor junior toolmakers and apprentices on proper techniques, safety practices, and trade knowledge
Qualifications and Skills
5+ years of experience as a Tool and Die Maker in a stamping, metal forming, or tooling environment
Journeyman Tool and Die Maker certification or equivalent demonstrated skill through a recognized apprenticeship program