Tool and Die Manager

Job Title: Tool and Die Manager- Forming Operations Location: Elk Grove Village, IL area Job Type and Duration: Direct Hire Pay range: $40-50/HRPosition OverviewOur client is seeking an experienced Tool & Die Manager - Forming Operations to lead and execute precision forming and stamping operations facility. This is a high-impact, hands-on leadership role replacing a long-standing technical expert who has supported this operation for nearly two decades. This position owns the complete forming process-from reviewing etched blanks and engineering drawings through tooling strategy, setup, machining, and final formed parts. You will lead a small skilled team while remaining directly involved on the floor in a high-mix, low-volume precision manufacturing environmentParts produced support advanced industries including aerospace, electronics, medical, and industrial technologies Key ResponsibilitiesServe as the technical authority for all forming and tool & die operations at the Elk Grove facilityReview engineering drawings and specifications to determine optimal forming, machining, and tooling methodsLead the setup and operation of milling, grinding, and related precision machining equipmentDetermine machining processes, tooling strategies, and forming or stamping methods for complex etched metal blanksPartner closely with client's etching facility to ensure seamless handoff from blank to final formed componentLead, mentor, and support a team of 2 experienced Tool & Die professionalsMaintain high standards for precision, tolerances, and surface finishesTroubleshoot forming and tooling challenges with a root-cause mindsetSupport continuous improvement in process efficiency, tooling design, and workflowEnsure adherence to quality, safety, and documentation standards Required Qualifications 10+ years of Tool & Die, Toolmaking, or Precision Machining experienceProven expertise in forming operations and progressive manufacturing processesStrong ability to interpret blueprints, GD&T, and engineering documentationHands-on experience with: Milling machinesSurface and tool grindingPrecision fixturing and setupsDeep understanding of: Machining principlesMetal properties & materialsForming techniquesExperience working in high mix, tight-tolerance manufacturing environmentsDemonstrated ability to work independently while leading othersStrong problem-solving and technical decision-making skills Leadership & Soft SkillsComfortable being hands-on while leading a small technical teamStrong communicator between engineering, production, and operationsDetail-oriented with a craftsmanship mindsetReliable, steady leadership presence with long-term mindset Preferred Experience (Nice to Have) Background supporting aerospace, electronics, or medical device componentsExperience with etched or chemically processed metal partsPrevious experience leading a small specialty machining group4-slide tooling and setup ESPO Corporation www.espocorp.com 630-789-2525 View all open jobs at www.espocorp.com/jobs Leaders in Technical Recruiting & Staffing since 1965 ESPO has a comprehensive benefits package which includes PTO, Group Health and Dental Insurance, and 401k after you have satisfied the necessary waiting periods. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and value the benefits of diversity in our workforce. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity and expression, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, or any other attribute or protected characteristic by law. If you need assistance applying, please get in touch with us directly.