Tool & Die Maker

Tool & Die Craftsman
Buffalo, NY (onsite)
Perm Role

Our client is seeking a Tool & Die Maker to join their manufacturing team. The Tool and Die Maker designs, builds, repairs, modifies, and maintains precision tooling, molds, trim dies, fixtures, cutting knives, and related equipment for the molding of plastic molds and packaging for confectionery and bakery use. This role is strictly manual bench work, with no CNC programming.
Our client is willing to train individuals with a HS Diploma or GED who have a Tool & Die Apprenticeship, Technical Certification, or equivalent training to work full-time.
Our client is also willing to consider Journeymen Tool & Die Makers who would like to work part-time or full-time.

WHAT YOU WILL BE DOING

• Build, repair, modify, and maintain thermoforming molds, forming tools, trim dies, inserts, fixtures, and production tooling used for confectionery packaging applications.
• Read and interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, CAD models, tooling specifications, and product requirements.
• Operate manual machine tools, including mills, grinders, and drilling machines, to fabricate and repair tooling components.
• Assemble, fit, adjust, and test tooling to ensure proper forming performance, product release, and dimensional accuracy.
• Troubleshoot tooling issues related to forming quality, trimming, fit, finish, and repeatability, and implement corrective actions to reduce production interruptions.
• Perform preventative maintenance on molds and tooling, including cleaning, inspection, repairs, and documentation of modifications.
• Measure and inspect tooling components using precision measuring instruments such as micrometers, calipers, height gauges, and indicators, as required.
• Collaborate with engineering, production, quality, and maintenance teams to improve tooling performance, product consistency, and manufacturing efficiency.
• Support new product introductions by fabricating, modifying, and validating thermoforming molds and trim tooling for confectionery applications.
• Recommend tooling improvements to increase cycle efficiency, reduce scrap, improve product quality, and extend tool life.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment while following company safety, Job Qualifications:
• 3–5 years of experience as a Tool and Die Maker, preferably within thermoforming, plastics manufacturing, or confectionery packaging industries.
• Strong understanding of thermoforming processes, vacuum forming, pressure forming, trim tooling, mold construction, and plastic materials used in food packaging applications.
• Experience fabricating and maintaining aluminum and steel tooling for high-volume production environments.
• Proficiency operating manual machining equipment.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, CAD drawings, and tooling specifications.
• Experience with polishing, surface finishing, precision fitting, and mold repair techniques.
• Strong troubleshooting, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently, manage priorities, and support production needs in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
• Effective communication and teamwork skills.
• Understanding of confectionery manufacturing processes and the ability to provide product recommendations tailored to customer needs.

• 3–5 years of experience as a Tool and Die Maker, preferably within thermoforming, plastics manufacturing, or confectionery packaging industries.
• Strong understanding of thermoforming processes, vacuum forming, pressure forming, trim tooling, mold construction, and plastic materials used in food packaging applications.
• Experience fabricating and maintaining aluminum and steel tooling for high-volume production environments.
• Proficiency operating manual machining equipment.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, CAD drawings, and tooling specifications.
• Experience with polishing, surface finishing, precision fitting, and mold repair techniques.
• Strong troubleshooting, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently, manage priorities, and support production needs in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
• Effective communication and teamwork skills.
• Understanding of confectionery manufacturing processes and the ability to provide product recommendations tailored to customer needs.

• Experience with thermoformed confectionery packaging, trays, cups, blister packs, or similar food-related plastic products.
• Familiarity with CAD/CAM software and programming helpful for future development, but not required for this position.
• Knowledge of mold cooling systems, vacuum systems, pneumatic components, and mechanical systems used in thermoforming equipment.
• Understanding of food packaging quality standards, cleanliness requirements, and manufacturing controls.
• Experience supporting continuous improvement initiatives such as Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or structured problem-solving programs.
• Able to read calipers and a ruler, good math skills, safety conscious. Knowledge and ability to use Drill Press, manual mill, Disc Sander, Buffer, Band Saw, and hand tools. Desire to learn and understand the thermoform tool building process.
• Excellent verbal and written communication involving compelling articulation of unique client value proposition.
• Excellent organizational skills
• Attention to detail and focused on fact-based decision-making.
• Good math and written communication skills.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office suite or related software.
• Efficient time management skills.
• General knowledge and expertise in the industry and market.
• Required to communicate in English and possess basic math skills
• Must be authorized to work in the U.S.

• High school diploma or GED required; Tool and Die apprenticeship, technical certification, or equivalent training preferred.

• Frequent standing, walking, bending, kneeling, reaching, and handling of tooling components.
• Manual dexterity required to operate machine tools and precision measuring equipment.
• Ability to work in a manufacturing environment with exposure to noise, heat, machinery, and production equipment while wearing required personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Ability to follow applicable safety and hygiene requirements for food-related manufacturing environments.
• Required to stand for a long period of time, walk, or sit.