Lead Tool Maker

Company Overview
Placon Corporation based in Madison WI is a leading designer and manufacturer of innovative thermoformed and injection molded plastic packaging products. With a commitment to quality and sustainability since 1966 we serve the medical device food and retail markets with custom-designed solutions that prioritize the end-user.

Position Overview
The Lead Tool Maker is responsible for building modifying and maintaining tooling to precise specifications while leading and mentoring a team of Tool Makers and Assistants. This role ensures tools are production-ready supports preventative maintenance assists in quoting and plays a key role in monitoring tooling schedules. The ideal candidate is a hands-on leader with strong technical knowledge and a commitment to quality and safety.

Key Responsibilities

Tooling & Machining

• Build modify and repair tools and components to meet design and production specifications.

• Ensure tooling is production-ready and supports manufacturing goals.

• Perform inspections using precision instruments such as micrometers dial indicators and gauge blocks.

• Collaborate with vendors to improve material sourcing and reduce lead times.

Leadership & Training

• Supervise Tool Makers and Assistants ensuring quality safety and productivity standards are maintained.

• Train team members in tool building inspection troubleshooting and preventative maintenance.

• Lead by example with strong communication organization and problem-solving skills.

• Provide input on team performance and assist with evaluations as needed.

Project Management & Documentation

• Monitor tooling schedules and update stakeholders on project progress.

• Maintain accurate documentation including inspection reports tool history and maintenance records.

• Support tool quoting efforts and contribute to cost and time estimations.

• Coordinate work activities to meet project deadlines and maintenance goals.

Cross-Functional Support

• Provide machining and technical support to other departments as needed.

• Ensure compliance with ISO standards safety policies and work procedures.

• Assist in tool vault and sample lab operations as required.

Qualifications

• Associate degree in Tool & Die or Journeyman Tool & Die Technician certification.

• 10 years of advanced tool fabrication and machining experience.

• Proficient in operating CNC mills lathes grinders and related equipment.

• Skilled in precision measuring instruments and blueprint reading.

• Strong leadership troubleshooting and technical training abilities.

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

• Indoor shop environment within the tooling department.

• Regular standing with occasional lifting (up to 50 lbs).

• Ability to work on feet for up to 12-hour shifts.

• Occasional local or regional travel as needed.

Benefits

Were proud to offer a comprehensive benefits package including:

• Competitive pay of $27.50/hr - $33/hr commiserate to experience

• 401(k) with company match up to 3%

• Medical insurance provided through Dean

• Dental vision short-term and long-term disability coverage through Sun Life

• Tuition reimbursement for continued education

Placon employment offers are contingent upon the successful completion of a pre-employment drug test basic physical background check educational verification and reference checks (as applicable).

Placon requires that employees have and maintain authorization to work in the country in which the role is general Placon does not sponsor candidates for non-immigrant visas or permanent residency unless based on business need.

Placon is committed to equal opportunity for all applicants without regard to race color religion sex sexual orientation gender gender identity or expression marital status age national origin disability veteran status genetic information or other protected characteristics.