Tool & Dye Maker- 1st Shift

1st Shift: Monday - Thursday 5:00AM - 3:30PMPosition SummaryThe Tool & Die Maker at the Beaver Dam facility plays a critical, highly autonomous role in supporting the production of alternators through expert-level tooling, machine troubleshooting, and continuous improvement. This position is responsible for diagnosing and resolving complex issues on proprietary manufacturing equipment, often where documentation is limited or non-existent. The role requires the ability to independently redesign, modify, and improve machine assemblies, tooling, and components to enhance reliability, quality, and throughput. The Tool & Die Maker is expected to operate as a technical authority within the facility, driving improvements with minimal direction and strong ownership of outcomes.Core ResponsibilitiesProprietary Equipment & Tooling Support (Primary)Build, repair, modify, and maintain dies, fixtures, gauges, jigs, and specialized tooling used in alternator manufacturingTroubleshoot highly complex, proprietary machinery and custom-built equipment unique to Generac operationsDiagnose root causes related to alignment, tolerance stack-up, wear, vibration, heat, and mechanical interactionIndependently redesign and rework machine assemblies or components when standard repairs are insufficientPerform precision fitting, grinding, machining, and hand work to extremely tight tolerancesMachining & Fabrication ExpertiseOperate manual and CNC machining equipment including mills, lathes, grindersManufacture replacement parts and custom components using prints, sketches, measurements, or reverse engineeringInterpret complex blueprints, GD&T, and engineering intent to ensure functional accuracyContinuous Improvement & Technical OwnershipTake full ownership of tooling and machine performance within assigned manufacturing areasProactively identify chronic equipment issues and lead permanent corrective actionsDesign and implement improvements that increase uptime, reduce scrap, and improve process stabilityChallenge existing designs and processes, proposing innovative mechanical solutions without reliance on external supportSupport new product introductions and process changes by designing or modifying tooling and machine componentsProvide expert-level guidance to Maintenance, Engineering, and Production when complex mechanical decisions are requiredSafety, Documentation & CollaborationAdhere to all safety standards including machine guarding, LOTO, and toolroom best practicesDocument tool modifications, machine changes, and improvement actions to support long-term reliabilityPartner with Manufacturing Engineering to align improvements with process intent and production goalsMentor and support skill development within the toolroom and broader operations teamRequired QualificationsHigh School Diploma or GED5+ years of Tool & Die Maker, toolroom, or precision machining experience in a manufacturing environmentDemonstrated ability to independently troubleshoot complex mechanical systems and proprietary equipmentProven capability to redesign and fabricate machine components with little or no assistanceAdvanced blueprint reading and GD&T interpretation skillsPreferred QualificationsJourneyman Tool & Die Maker certification or completed apprenticeshipExperience supporting alternator, motor, or other rotating equipment manufacturingBackground in automated or semi-automated assembly processesDemonstrated leadership in continuous improvement or equipment reliability initiativesPhysical & Work Environment RequirementsAbility to stand, bend, reach, and work at machines for extended periodsAbility to lift up to 50 lbs and handle precision components safelyComfortable working around machining equipment, rotating machinery, oils, coolants, and metal chipsWhat Success Looks Like at Beaver DamProprietary alternator production equipment operates with high reliability and repeatabilityChronic tooling and machine issues are eliminated through effective redesign, not temporary fixesContinuous improvement efforts result in measurable gains in uptime, quality, and throughputThe Tool & Die Maker is trusted as a primary technical problem-solver and improvement leader