Tool Maker Journeyman

St. Charles, IL 60174

Employment Type: Permanent Job Category: Technician Job Number: 53430389 Compensation: $70000-79000 / year

Job Description

Job Title: Tool Maker
Location: Manufacturing Facility (On-site)
Employment Type: Full-Time
Industry: Rigid Plastic Packaging / Manufacturing
Pay: $30-40/hr 

A client of ours, a leading manufacturer in the rigid plastic packaging industry, is seeking a skilled Tool Maker to support high-volume production operations. This role is responsible for the build, maintenance, repair, and modification of precision tooling, including molds and related components used in injection-blow and molding processes.

The ideal candidate will be hands-on, detail-oriented, and experienced in a fast-paced manufacturing environment where safety, quality, and continuous improvement are key priorities.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Build, repair, maintain, and modify production tooling, molds, fixtures, and dies to ensure optimal performance.
  • Troubleshoot tooling issues to minimize downtime and support continuous production.
  • Perform preventive maintenance on molds and tooling to extend tool life and maintain quality standards.
  • Read and interpret blueprints, CAD drawings, and technical specifications.
  • Operate manual and CNC machines (mills, lathes, grinders, EDM, etc.) as needed.
  • Collaborate with engineering, maintenance, and production teams to improve tooling efficiency and product quality.
  • Ensure tooling meets tight tolerances and customer specifications.
  • Follow all safety, quality, and housekeeping standards in the shop and production areas.
  • Assist with new tool builds, tooling trials, and process improvements.
  • Document repairs, modifications, and maintenance activities.
Qualifications & Experience:

  • High school diploma or equivalent required; technical or trade school training preferred.
  • 3+ years of experience as a Tool Maker, Mold Maker, or similar role in a manufacturing environment.
  • Experience working with plastic injection or blow molding tooling strongly preferred.
  • Proficiency in using precision measuring instruments (micrometers, calipers, indicators).
  • Strong mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  • Willingness to work flexible shifts or overtime as production demands require.
What This Client Offers:

  • Competitive pay based on experience and skill level.
  • Comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision insurance.
  • 401(k) with company match.
  • Paid time off (PTO) and paid holidays.
  • Opportunities for career growth, cross-training, and skill development within a stable manufacturing organization.
  • A team-oriented environment that values safety, quality, and continuous improvement.
  • Long-term stability serving essential industries such as food, healthcare, and wellness products.

Meet Your Recruiter

Galen Schloming
Senior Technical Recruiter

Galen is a Senior Technical Recruiter at Sterling Engineering with nearly 14 years of recruiting and talent acquisition experience, spanning agency leadership, high-volume technical recruiting, and executive-level client partnership. Since joining Sterling in February 2026, he has brought a strategic, relationship-driven approach to supporting candidates and clients across manufacturing, industrial engineering, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, and more.

Galen is dedicated to solving complex hiring challenges and building trusted, long-term partnerships with candidates, hiring managers, and executives. He takes the time to understand each person’s experience, goals, and career ambitions so he can help connect them with opportunities that align with both their skills and long-term direction.

For Galen, recruiting is about being an advocate and facilitator during important moments of transition and opportunity. He genuinely enjoys learning what motivates people and helping them take meaningful next steps in their careers while supporting companies in building strong, high-performing teams.

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