Tooling Operator 3

West Columbia, SC 29170

Employment Type: Contract Job Category: Machinist Job Number: 52178157 Compensation: $22-24 / hour

Job Description

Title: Tooling Operator
Location: West Columbia, SC
Hire Type: Contract to Hire
Benefits: Insurance (Medical, Dental, Vision), PTO, and more!
Pay Rate: $24/hour
Schedule: 2nd Shift

We are seeking a skilled and motivated Tooling Operator to join our team in West Columbia. While the title is Tooling Operator, this role functions more as an assembly/light machinist/shop position, supporting the Tooling Shop with hands-on fabrication, assembly, and light machining tasks. The Tooling Operator will play a key role in producing and maintaining custom parts, fixtures, and racks used on the assembly floor, as well as assisting with re-machining components for maintenance and production support.
This is an excellent opportunity for someone with mechanical aptitude, shop experience, and a passion for working with tools and machinery.

Job Duties:
  • Work within the Tooling Shop to fabricate and assemble parts, tools, fixtures, and equipment to support production operations.
  • Operate hand tools and power equipment such as band saws, table saws, miter saws, and other shop machinery.
  • Perform light machining using manual mills and lathes to produce or modify metal and plastic components.
  • Interpret mechanical prints, blueprints, and work instructions to complete projects accurately.
  • Assemble custom fixtures, racks, and parts used on the assembly floor.
  • Assist in re-machining parts or components for the maintenance department as needed.
  • Maintain an organized and safe workspace while following all shop and company safety protocols.
  • Collaborate with engineers, maintenance, and assembly teams to fulfill tooling and production needs.
  • Perform basic maintenance on tools and equipment to ensure proper functionality.
Qualifications:
  • High School Diploma or GED required; Technical degree or trade certification in machining, manufacturing, or related field preferred.
  • Minimum 1 year of shop experience using hand and machine tools.
  • Experience in automotive, welding, manufacturing, or aerospace industries is highly desirable.
  • Familiarity with manual mill and lathe operations preferred.
  • Ability to read and interpret mechanical prints and schematics.
  • Basic knowledge of CAD or design software is a plus.
  • Strong mechanical aptitude, problem-solving skills, and attention to detail.
  • Reliable and team-oriented with a commitment to quality and safety.

Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information.

Meet Your Recruiter

Emmanuel Forney

Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information. 

 As one of the most respected names in engineering staffing, Sterling has hundreds of opportunities with top employers. If you’ve got a friend or colleague seeking their next move in engineering, we could have their next opportunity. We offer a referral bonus for every referral that we place. Submit referral now. 

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About West Columbia, SC

Ready to take the next step in your career? Explore exciting job opportunities in and around West Columbia, South Carolina! Nestled beside the beautiful Congaree River, this charming town offers a unique blend of Southern hospitality and modern amenities. With easy access to the vibrant arts scene at West Columbia's 701 Center for Contemporary Art or catching a show at the nearby Koger Center for the Arts in Columbia, there's no shortage of cultural experiences to enjoy. Indulge in delicious Southern cuisine at local hotspots like Carolina Strip Club and Motor Supply Co. Bistro, or unwind in nature at the scenic Riverbanks Zoo and Garden. Join the thriving workforce in this dynamic region and discover why West Columbia is the perfect place to grow both personally and professionally. Start your job search today!