Tooling Operator
Job Description
Location: West Columbia, SC
Hire Type: Contract to Hire
Benefits: Insurance (Medical, Dental, Vision), PTO, and more!
Pay Rate: $24/hour
This is an excellent opportunity for someone with mechanical aptitude, shop experience, and a passion for working with tools and machinery.
•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.
•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.
Meet Your Recruiter
Lauren Rexford
Technical Recruiter
I am a Recruiter at Sterling Engineering, where I support Flex-related positions across a wide range of skill sets, including HR, technicians, engineers, and more. I have been recruiting for nearly three years and joined Sterling in October 2025, and I am loving every minute of it.
I have a passion for recruiting because I love being part of the people industry. I enjoy building relationships, learning about each candidate’s goals, and helping pair the right person with the best opportunity. For me, recruiting is about more than filling a role. It is about creating long-term success for both the client and the candidate.
I am also a Certified Staffing Professional through the American Staffing Association, which reflects my commitment to staffing best practices, industry knowledge, and delivering a high-quality experience throughout the recruiting process.