About the position
Our client, market leader in the automotive manufacturing sector is looking to hire Tool & Die Makers for their Production Department, based close to La Mercy. This position is responsible for crafting, repairing, maintaining, improving, and modifying tools and metal forms used in stamping and forging operations. The role involves analysing design specifications, shaping and assembling metal components, and testing completed tools to ensure accurate dimensions and efficient production. This includes work on custom-made, prototype, and special tools, dies, jigs, fixtures, gauges, and fittings, using various metals and alloys to support uninterrupted manufacturing operations.
Educational Requirement & Experience:
- Matric (Grade 12)
- N4 Mechanical (preferably including Strength & Materials, Mechanical Trade Theory, and Mathematics)
- Trade Test: Tool and Die Maker
- Minimum 3-5 years' relevant experience as a Tool and Die Maker
- In-depth knowledge of metalwork, including welding processes
- Ability to identify root causes of die defects and act swiftly
- Ability to read and interpret blueprints, CAD drawings, and design schematics
- Extensive experience with drills, milling machines, grinders, and lathes
- Experience with quality control processes
- Ability to lift heavy objects and operate large machinery
- Awareness of cost control and financial impact
- Compliance with health, safety, and environmental policies
Job Description:
- Design and manufacture jigs and templates as production aids
- Visualise and calculate metal shapes and tolerances
- Read and interpret blueprints, CAD drawings, schematics, and models
- Prepare templates, sketch, and determine work processes
- Compute dimensions, tolerances, and set up machine tools
- Position, secure, measure, and machine metal or castings
- Measure and mark metal for machining
- Set up, operate, and maintain machine tools including milling, drilling, grinding, boring, and shaping equipment
- Verify components using precision measuring instruments such as verniers, callipers, micrometres, CMMs, and electronic devices
- Cut, shape, fit, assemble, and disassemble tooling components using hand tools
- Perform filing, grinding, and shimming to ensure smooth finishes
- Assemble and fit press tooling
- Conduct routine die maintenance, refurbishment, and improvements
- Attend to breakdowns, identify faults, and resolve press issues with minimal downtime
- Conduct try-outs for new and modified press dies
- Inspect finished tools and dies for defects, smoothness, and contour accuracy
- Identify spare part requirements
- Record and document work activities as required
- Participate actively in continuous improvement initiatives
- Work within tooling cost and budget parameters
- Report equipment faults, breakdowns, and safety concerns to management
- Always ensure compliance with quality standards
- Maintain strict adherence to safety standards and wear required PPE
Only qualified candidates will be shortlisted & only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
Desired Skills:
