Tool Crib Attendant

TOOL CRIB ATTENDANT

Summary: The Tool Crib Attendant is responsible for the controlled management, traceability, and continuous improvement of tooling, gauges, and manufacturing support equipment within an aerospace and defense production environment. This role ensures full compliance with applicable quality standards, customer requirements, and internal procedures while supporting safe, efficient, and repeatable manufacturing operations. Serving as a key support function to Production, Engineering, Quality, and Supply Chain, the Tool Crib Attendant safeguards tooling integrity, maintains accurate records, and contributes to cost control, risk mitigation, and new product introduction activities. Attention to detail, adherence to established processes, and sound judgment are critical to success in this role.

Job Responsibilities

Tooling Control & Traceability

• Manage controlled inventories of cutting tools, holders, gauges, fixtures, and production support equipment
• Ensure tooling traceability in accordance with aerospace and defense quality standards (e.g., AS9100, customer flow-downs)
• Control issuance, return, life tracking, and segregation of tooling to prevent damage, loss, or misuse
• Support FOD (Foreign Object Debris) prevention through disciplined tool control practices

Quality & Compliance

• Ensure tooling and gauges meet calibration, inspection, and certification requirements
• Maintain accurate records to support audits, internal inspections, and customer or regulatory reviews
• Ensure compliance with internal procedures, quality manuals, and work instructions
• Support corrective and preventive actions related to tooling or equipment issues

Purchasing & Cost Management

• Provide tooling usage data, forecasts, and budget input to Purchasing and Management
• Review and support blanket order requirements, tooling lead times, and supplier performance
• Evaluate tooling pricing, life expectancy, and standardization opportunities in collaboration with Engineering
• Support cost reduction initiatives without compromising quality or compliance

Manufacturing & Engineering Support

• Perform precision measurement and verification of specialized tooling using vernier calipers, micrometers, and dial test indicators
• Create and maintain tool kits and carts aligned with production cells, routings, and work orders
• Support New Product Introduction (NPI), first article inspections (FAI), and production ramp-ups through tooling readiness
• Participate in tooling trials, process improvements, and engineering change implementation

Systems, Processes & Leadership

• Operate and manage automated or matrix tool distribution systems
• Develop, maintain, and continuously improve tool crib procedures and documentation
• Train and mentor tool crib staff and production personnel on proper tooling handling and control
• Promote a culture of safety, accountability, and continuous improvement

Qualifications & Requirements

Education

• College diploma required

Experience

• Minimum 3 years of experience in a tool crib or tooling control role within a regulated manufacturing environment

Technical Skills

• In-depth knowledge of aerospace-grade cutting tools, holders, and tooling systems
• Proficiency with precision measurement instruments including vernier calipers, micrometers, and dial test indicators
• Experience with Zoeller or equivalent automated tool vending systems considered an asset
• Experience managing matrix or controlled tool distribution systems

Additional Requirements

• Strong understanding of quality systems and documentation discipline
• Ability to work effectively in an AS9100 / ISO-certified environment
• Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and professionalism in a defense-related environment