Job Purpose:
To assemble, maintain, repair, set up and adjust die tools—including progressive, stamping, notching and stacking tools—so that production runs smoothly, quality is met, and downtime is minimised.
Key Responsibilities:
- Assemble and stack die components (die blocks, inserts, stripper plates, punches, dies) with precise alignment and fit
- Build, repair, and maintain progressive dies, ensuring correct timing and alignment of all stations (punch, bend, form, trim)
- Set up, sharpen, and adjust stamping and notching tools, maintaining accurate cutting edges and notch points
- Perform die setup, try-outs, and testing by:
- Installing dies into presses
- Conducting trial runs
- Inspecting and approving first samples
- Iteratively adjusting until specifications are met
- Troubleshoot operational issues such as mis-feeds, misalignment, burrs, punch/die wear, stripping problems
- Execute preventive maintenance: clean, sharpen, replace worn parts, restore surfaces
- Conduct quality inspections using precision measuring tools (micrometers, vernier calipers, height gauges, dial gauges) to verify parts meet tolerances
- Maintain tool room documentation: tool log books, history of breakdowns, changeovers, adjustments
- Provide feedback to engineering/design teams for process improvements
- Enforce safety protocols and housekeeping: safe handling of heavy dies/tools, keeping tool room organized and clean
Skills & Qualification:
- Trade certificate / ITI in Tool & Die making, Mechanical, Sheet Metal or equivalent hands-on experience
- Proven experience with progressive dies, stamping tools, notching tools, stacking tools
- Ability to read and interpret technical drawings, blueprints, and die assembly drawings
- Proficiency in use of precision measuring instruments (micrometers, calipers, dial gauges, height gauges)
- Familiarity with machine tools: surface grinder, milling machine, drill press, possibly EDM
- Strong mechanical aptitude: understanding of wear, alignment, tolerances, material behaviour under stamping
- Excellent problem-solving and troubleshooting abilities
- Physical stamina and strength (lifting heavy die parts, standing, bending)
- Basic communication skills and ability to coordinate with production, engineering, quality
- Tool & die work specific to stamping / progressive tools / notching tools.
- Prior experience in die try-outs, setup, maintenance & repair preferred.