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Patternmaker / Tooling & Fixture Maker
About this position
Our long-running Quad Cities pattern shop is looking for a skilled Patternmaker to build and maintain complex steel dies and machining fixtures. This is real, hands-on pattern and tooling work on the floor for someone who takes pride in building things right.
We need a craftsman who takes the reins and runs with it – someone who can take a complex part, figure out the tooling, and make it happen without being told what to do at every step. If you'd rather own a tough build start to finish than be handed a checklist, this is your shop.
Your work
- Build, modify, and maintain complex steel dies and casting tooling.
- Design and fabricate complex machining fixtures and workholding.
- Work hands-on on the floor – layout, fitting, machining, assembly, and rework of tooling.
- Solve tough tooling and fixturing problems and see them through to a working solution.
- Partner with programming, machining, and production teams to get tooling production-ready.
- Maintain and improve existing patterns, dies, and fixtures over their life cycle.
What it takes
- Patternmaking, die, or tool-and-fixture experience – or strong hands-on mechanical ability and the drive to master complex tooling.
- Genuinely hands-on; you want to be building and fitting, not just planning.
- Self-directed and resourceful – you take ownership of a build and figure it out.
- Skilled with manual machines, hand tools, layout, and precision fitting.
- Able to read and work from complex prints, models, and castings.
- Pride in craftsmanship and a bias toward making the tooling better.
What we offer
- Highly competitive hourly wage, depending on experience.
- Sign-on bonus.
- Day shift, on-site.
- Full benefits package including health coverage, paid time off, and retirement plan.
- Established, family-owned shop where craftsmanship is valued.
How to apply
If this sounds like your kind of work, send over your resume and a short note about the tooling and patterns you've built. We'll be in touch with the right candidates.
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