Tool & Die Technician – 3rd Shift

Caterpillar Inc.

. Perform functions in the construction, alteration, and repair of jigs, fixtures, gauges, metal-working dies, and machine-tool parts .

Posted 9/29/2026full-timeLafayette • United StatesMid-LevelSenior💰 $39 - $49 per hourWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

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Demonstrates expertise in machining operations, including grinding, lathe work, milling, and drilling on both manual and CNC equipment, while ensuring adherence to tight tolerances and safety standards. Proficient in troubleshooting and repairing tooling and fixtures, with a strong ability to interpret complex schematics and execute complex tooling jobs.

Highest-signal resume keywords

CNC-Controlled Machines ExperienceMachinist Skills Including Grinders, Mills, Lathes, DrillsAbility to Hold Tight TolerancesCAD/CAM Software KnowledgeAbility to Troubleshoot and Repair Fixtures

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills

GrindingLathe WorkMillingDrillingWeldingHeat TreatmentJig/Bore GrindingTooling RepairBlueprint InterpretationCNC Programming

Soft Skills

Verbal CommunicationElectronic CommunicationAbility to Work in Fast-Paced Environment

Tools & Technologies

Office 360Machine ToolsGauges

Certifications & Qualifications

Associate Degree from Accredited Technical SchoolCompletion of Toolmaker Apprenticeship

Industry Keywords

Job Shop ExperienceTool Room ExperienceComplex Tooling JobsTight TolerancesSafety Standards

Tech Stack

Tools & technologies

Assembly

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Perform functions in the construction, alteration, and repair of jigs, fixtures, gauges, metal-working dies, and machine-tool parts
Troubleshoot and repair jigs, fixtures, dies, and related tooling on the shop floor
Set up, operate, and adjust machine tools for machining dies, jigs, fixtures, repair parts, miscellaneous tooling, and experimental parts to required tolerances
Determine applicable operating methods and procedures, including setup improvisation and selection of materials and tooling
Use gauges and perform basic welding and heat treatment
Plan and execute complex tooling jobs
Perform grinding, lathe work, milling, drilling, and other machining operations on manual and CNC equipment
Maintain a safe and productive department through housekeeping and other assigned duties
Work on 3rd shift from 11:30pm to 7:30am

Requirements

What you’ll need

6+ years' Job Shop or Tool Room experience and/or an Associate Degree from an accredited Technical School with four years of experience and/or completion of an accredited four-year Toolmaker Apprenticeship
Successful completion of the Tooling Services Intermediate Math assessment (top candidates)
Knowledge and ability to plan and execute complex tooling jobs
Ability to hold tight tolerances on grinding, lathe work, and milling/drilling work on both manual and CNC equipment
Machinist skills including grinders, mills, lathes, drills, welding, heat treat, jig/bore grinding, and related tooling
Ability to troubleshoot and repair fixtures, tooling, and machines in the shop
Ability to gauge tight tolerance parts
Ability to determine required heat treatment and perform those functions
CAD/CAM software knowledge
Ability to interpret complex machine schematics and blueprints
CNC-controlled machines experience, including ability to read, write, and edit programs
Basic computer skills with experience with Office 360
Ability to communicate verbally and electronically
Willingness to work overtime opportunities
Ability to work in a fast-paced, medium- to heavy-duty assembly and technical environment
Ability to perform frequent bending, stooping, kneeling, twisting, turning, climbing, and standing on concrete for 8+ hours
Ability to lift 40 pounds and withstand frequent repetitive hand movements with tooling
Ability to work at heights and in confined spaces
Successful completion of a drug screen
Visa sponsorship is not available

Benefits

Comp & perks

$5,000 Sign On Bonus
Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance
Incentives/Bonus Opportunities
Matching 401k
Generous lump sum payment for eligible relocating candidates (up to $15,000)
Relocation assistance
Climate controlled work environment – most areas
Clean/safe work environment
13 days/104 hours of paid Personal Time Off (PTO)
11 paid holidays
40-hour work weeks with potential for overtime
Paid time off plan (Vacation, Holidays, Volunteer, etc.)
401(k) savings plans
Health Savings Account (HSA)
Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)
Health Lifestyle Programs
Employee Assistance Program
Voluntary Benefits and Employee Discounts
Career Development
Incentive bonus
Disability benefits
Life Insurance
Parental leave
Adoption benefits
Tuition Reimbursement