Toolroom Lead in Waterbury, Connecticut at MICROBEST INC

Microbest, a Leader in the Industry of Precision Turned Components, is expanding rapidly, and we are looking for skilled, dedicated professionals to grow with us. We are not just a company—we are a community of passionate individuals committed to delivering the highest quality products in our sector.

Microbest is currently seeking a Toolroom Lead to join our team. This role is ideal for a highly skilled toolmaker who also has the ability to lead and support a small team. This is a hands-on position where the Lead actively works alongside their team while overseeing daily toolroom operations and supporting production needs.

The Toolroom Lead will play a critical role in the design, fabrication, maintenance, and repair of custom machining fixtures and gauges, ensuring optimal performance of high-volume CNC production equipment.

Key Responsibilities:

• Serve as a working leader, actively performing toolmaking duties while leading and supporting two direct reports.
• Operate a wide range of machine shop equipment, including manual and CNC mills, lathes, grinders, saws, and EDM machines.
• Interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, and specifications to fabricate and maintain custom fixtures and gauges.
• Oversee daily toolroom activities, ensuring work is prioritized and completed efficiently to support production schedules.
• Collaborate closely with Engineering, Production, and Quality teams to develop effective tooling solutions and resolve manufacturing challenges.
• Troubleshoot tooling issues and implement timely repairs to minimize downtime and maintain production flow.
• Ensure all fixtures and gauges are maintained to meet quality and performance standards.
• Ordering of tooling and materials
• Provide guidance, training, and support to toolroom staff to enhance skill development and performance.
• Promote a safe, clean, and organized toolroom environment.
• Identify opportunities for continuous improvement in tooling, processes, and efficiency.

Required Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent; technical certification, apprenticeship, or journeyman toolmaker status preferred.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience as a Toolmaker in a manufacturing environment.
• Prior leadership or supervisory experience preferred (experience leading small teams is a plus).
• Strong hands-on experience operating manual and CNC machine shop equipment, including mills, lathes, grinders, and saws.
• Proficient in the use of inspection equipment such as micrometers, height gauges, bore gauges, and vision systems.
• Solid understanding of GD&T and the ability to interpret complex engineering drawings and specifications.
• Ability to balance hands-on work with leadership responsibilities in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong problem-solving skills with attention to detail.
• Effective communication skills and a collaborative, team-oriented mindset.
• Ability to work independently and make sound decisions with minimal supervision.

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Short- and Long-term Disability insurance
• Health insurance
• Group Life Insurance
• Voluntary Life Insurance
• Paid time off