Toolmaker

Sulzer is a leading engineering company with a proud heritage of innovation. Join our global team to grow your expertise and develop innovative solutions that enable a prosperous and more sustainable society.

About the role

The Machine Operator is responsible for operating and monitoring machinery used in the manufacturing process. This role ensures that machines run efficiently, products meet quality standards, and safety protocols are followed.

This job profile is intended for support staff that follows established procedures and works under close supervision. Smaller/easier decisions are made autonomously.

Job Description: Toolmaker

Job Title

Toolmaker

Department

Manufacturing / Toolroom

Reporting To

Tool store Supervisor / Manufacturing Supervisor

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Purpose of the Job

The Toolmaker is responsible for the manufacture, maintenance, repair, modification, and assembly of precision tooling, jigs, fixtures, gauges, dies, and special-purpose equipment required to support manufacturing operations. The incumbent ensures that tooling and equipment are maintained to the required quality standards, enabling safe, efficient, and cost-effective production while meeting customer and engineering requirements.

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Main Tasks and Responsibilities

Tool Manufacturing and Repair

· Manufacture, assemble, repair, and modify tooling, jigs, fixtures, gauges, and special-purpose equipment according to engineering drawings and specifications.

· Carry out precision machining activities including turning, milling, grinding, drilling, boring, and fitting.

· Inspect and verify tooling dimensions and tolerances using precision measuring equipment.

· Maintain tooling records and documentation as required.

· Assist with tool design improvements to enhance manufacturing efficiency and product quality.

Maintenance and Troubleshooting

· Diagnose tooling failures and determine root causes.

· Perform preventative and corrective maintenance on existing tooling.

· Ensure tooling is maintained in optimal condition to minimize production downtime.

· Recommend improvements to tooling design and manufacturing processes.

Quality Assurance

· Ensure all tooling complies with engineering drawings, specifications, and quality requirements.

· Conduct inspections and verification of completed work before release to production.

· Identify and report any non-conformances, defects, or quality concerns.

· Support NCR investigations and the implementation of corrective actions.

Production Support

· Provide technical support to manufacturing personnel regarding tooling-related issues.

· Assist production departments in improving tooling performance and manufacturing processes.

· Support continuous improvement initiatives aimed at reducing cycle times and improving productivity.

· Participate in new product introduction projects where tool development is required.

Housekeeping and 5S

· Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work area.

· Adhere to 5S and Lean Manufacturing principles.

· Ensure all tooling and equipment are properly stored and controlled.

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Environmental, Safety and Health Responsibilities

· Comply with all company Health, Safety, and Environmental policies and procedures.

· Promote a positive safety culture and actively participate in safety initiatives.

· Applying "Take 5" and "Stop Work for Safety" principles where required.

· Attend safety meetings and toolbox talks.

· Report unsafe conditions, incidents, and near misses immediately.

· Ensure all machines, tools, and equipment are used safely and correctly.

· Maintain compliance with legal and company safety standards.

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Competencies and Behaviors Required

Technical Competencies

· Precision machining and fitting skills.

· Toolmaking and tooling maintenance expertise.

· Ability to read and interpret detailed engineering drawings.

· Strong understanding of manufacturing processes and tolerances.

· Proficiency in using precision measuring instruments.

· Root cause analysis and problem-solving skills.

Behavioral Competencies

· Strong attention to detail.

· Quality-focused mindset.

· High level of craftsmanship and accuracy.

· Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.

· Strong communication and teamwork skills.

· Adaptability and flexibility.

· Initiative and continuous improvement mindset.

· Strong planning and organizational skills.

· Customer-focused approach.

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Qualifications, Experience and Knowledge Required

Minimum Qualifications

· Qualified Trade Tested Toolmaker.

Experience

· Minimum 3-5 years' experience in a toolroom or manufacturing environment.

· Experience in the manufacture, maintenance, and repair of tooling, jigs, fixtures, and gauges.

· Experience with precision machining equipment and processes.

Knowledge

· Sound knowledge of conventional machining practices.

· CNC machining experience will be advantageous.

· Knowledge of engineering drawings, geometric tolerancing, and metrology.

· Understanding of Lean Manufacturing and continuous improvement principles.

· Knowledge of workplace safety requirements and legislation.

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Decision Accountability

The incumbent is accountable for:

· Quality and accuracy of tooling manufactured and repaired.

· Adherence to engineering specifications and tolerances.

· Achievement of tooling delivery schedules.

· Maintaining tooling reliability and availability.

· Compliance with safety, quality, and environmental requirements.

· Supporting production uptime through effective tooling maintenance.

· Housekeeping and adherence to 5S standards.

· Participation in overtime and shift work as operationally required.

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Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

Productivity

· Tooling completion versus plan.

· Toolroom schedule adherence.

· Tool turnaround time.

Quality

· First-time-right tooling manufacture.

· Number of tooling-related NCRs.

· Rework and defect rates.

Cost and Efficiency

· Tooling maintenance costs.

· Reduction in tooling-related production downtime.

· Continuous improvement savings generated.

Safety

· Safety observations were completed.

· Compliance with safety requirements.

· Incident and near-miss performance.

Performance

· Attendance and punctuality.

· Annual performance appraisal outcomes.

· Skills development and training completion.

What we offer you

Medical Aid

Provident Fund

Sulzer is an equal opportunity employer. We believe in the strength of a diverse workforce and are committed to offering an inclusive work environment.

We are proud to be recognized as a Top Employer 2026 in Brazil, Canada, China, Finland, Germany, Ireland, Mexico, Switzerland, South Africa, the UK and the USA.