Associate Tool Maker

Job Description

Job Description

Kimber Mfg., Inc.

Job Description

Job Title: Associate Tool Maker

Location: Troy, AL

Classification: Non-Exempt

Grade: Hourly

Department: CNC

Reports To: Senior Manufacturing Engineer & Tool Room Supervisor

Date: October 29, 2025

SUMMARY/OBJECTIVE

The Associate Tool Maker requires a highly motivated individual with experience working in a Tool Room or Job Shop environment. This role demands knowledge of manual machining techniques (turning, grinding, milling) as well as CNC machines with MDI and Fanuc controls, including the ability to write programs when required. Proficiency in reading blueprints and GD&T is essential.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

• Under limited supervision, fabricate, repair, and improve tools, jigs, fixtures, gauges to the tolerances required for manufacturing processes.
• Work from engineering drawings, sketches, prototypes, and design documents to manufacture fixtures, jigs, and tooling, applying knowledge of materials, machining methods, assembly processes, and mathematics.
• Maintain tooling, fixtures, materials, and CNC programs in an organized and systematic manner to ensure proper process execution.
• Machine precision components by measuring, marking, and scribing stock; setting up and operating lathes, mills, drills, grinders, EDM, and CNC equipment.
• Inspect and verify component accuracy using micrometers, calipers, dial indicators, gauge blocks, height stand and other precision instruments.
• Provide feedback and suggestions on design improvements to enhance manufacturability, performance, and durability.
• Heat treat multiple material types using standard methods.
• Manage multiple tooling projects simultaneously, prioritizing tasks to meet production and quality requirements.
• Perform preventive maintenance on tools and machines; follow manufacturer guidelines; coordinate repairs to minimize downtime.
• Maintain adequate supply levels by monitoring usage, forecasting needs, and coordinating material orders.
• Document tooling changes, repairs, and maintenance records to support workflow continuity.
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives to reduce waste, improve efficiency, and support lean manufacturing practices.
• Ensure work areas are organized, clean, and hazard-free; promote 5S practices.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

Minimum Requirements:

• Proficient with mechanical inspection tools, controls, and instrumentation
• Manufacturing and machining experience (manual and CNC)
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints and technical drawings, including GD&T
• Experience maintaining and changing tools
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities
• Excellent documentation and reporting skills
• Effective teamwork and communication abilities

Preferred Qualifications:

• Expertise in reverse engineering methods for fixtures, and tooling
• Experience with Mastercam
• Experience with Solidworks
• CNC machining experience, including G-code programming and troubleshooting
• Experience determining CNC offsets and making adjustments
• Ability to interpret work orders and enter data into a manufacturing database (ERP)
• Familiarity with GD&T standards
• Lean manufacturing and 5S knowledge

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE

Required:

• High School Diploma, GED, or equivalent experience
• Previous Machine Shop experience

Preferred:

• Vocational/Technical degree in machining, toolmaking, or related field
• 3+ years of CNC machining experience
• 3+ years of Tool Room experience
• 3+ years of manual machining experience
• Lean manufacturing experience

OTHER SKILLS & ABILITIES

Attendance is an essential job requirement defined as having regular, consistent, reliable, punctual and predictable attendance including the ability to work regular hours and shifts, overtime before and after shifts and on weekends. Ability to work as part of a team, including all related departments/plants or independently as required to achieve internal and external customer satisfaction.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.

While performing the duties of the job the employee works in a manufacturing environment and may be exposed to fumes or airborne particles, moving mechanical parts and vibration.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job the employee is regularly required to talk or hear. The employee is frequently required to sit and use hands to touch, handle, or feel. The employee is occasionally required to stand, walk, reach with hands and arms, climb or balance and stoop, kneel, or crouch.

The employee is occasionally required to lift up to 50 pounds. The vision requirements include close vision and ability to adjust focus.

WORK AUTHORIZATION

This position requires compliance with the Export Administration Regulations (“EAR”). Must be a “U.S. Person” as defined by all pertinent regulations and are required to show proof substantiating this upon being hired.

OTHER DUTIES

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Activities, duties and/or responsibilities may change at any time with or without notice at the sole discretion of the Company.