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Sterling Engineering

Tool and Die Shop Manager

Sterling Engineering, Elk Grove Village, Illinois, us, 60009

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Technical Recruiter @ Sterling Engineering | Master's in Business Administration Location : Elk Grove Village, IL

Salary : $90k-$125k/yr. based on experience

Base pay range $90,000.00/yr - $125,000.00/yr

This role manages all daily operations of the tool and die shop while remaining fully hands‑on in machining, troubleshooting, and toolmaking activities. The Tool and Die Shop Manager will supervise a small team of 10-20 employees (depending on temp staff), oversee workflow, ensure quality standards, and support continuous improvement across tooling processes. Responsibilities include designing and making tools for short‑run/prototype work, setting up and troubleshooting kick presses, 4‑slide, and punch press tooling, and performing precision grinding and machining. Strong leadership, technical expertise, and a self‑directed work style are essential.

Job Duties

Manage day‑to‑day operations of the tool and die shop, ensuring productivity, quality, and safety

Supervise and develop a team of two toolroom employees

Maintain a hands‑on role in machining, toolmaking, troubleshooting, and repairs

Design and make tools primarily for short‑run/prototype work

Set up and troubleshoot kick presses, 4‑slide, and punch press tooling

Perform precision grinding and oversee grinding work performed by the team

Set up and operate milling and grinding machines

Interpret blueprints and engineering drawings to determine machining processes

Inspect finished parts using precision measuring instruments

Troubleshoot tooling issues and drive corrective actions to reduce downtime

Collaborate with engineers to optimize tool designs, processes, and production efficiency

Lead continuous improvement efforts within the toolroom

Maintain an organized, safe, and well‑equipped tool and die department

Qualifications

Proven experience as a Tool & Die Maker with strong hands‑on machining and grinding capabilities

Prior experience managing or leading a toolroom or small technical team

Proficiency with milling and grinding equipment

Strong understanding of machining principles, materials, and tooling processes

Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings (GD&T)

Strong attention to detail, problem‑solving skills, and ability to work with minimal supervision

Ability to lead by example and maintain a high‑performance culture

Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information. Seniority level

Mid‑Senior level

Employment type

Full‑time

Job function

Management

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