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This position has closed. PCI Pharma Services removed this listing from their careers page on Oct 6, 2026. The interview prep below is still useful, and there are similar open roles at the bottom of this page.

Tool and Die Machinist

PCI Pharma Services · Rockford, IL · $30.26–$34.05 an hour · Full time

Posted Jun 16, 2026 · We last checked this listing on Oct 5, 2026

Likely interview questions for this role

Written from this job description, not a generic list. Each one notes what the interviewer is really checking.

About your past

Tell me about a stamping die or mold you built or repaired. What was the hardest part?

What they are checking: Whether they have real hands-on toolmaking experience, not just running parts someone else set up.

Tell me about a time a part you made didn't fit. What did you do?

What they are checking: Whether they own mistakes and find what went wrong.

How do you work with mechanics to understand what a tool or fixture really needs to do?

What they are checking: Whether they ask the right questions so the part solves the real problem.

What would you do

A part breaks on a packaging line and there's no drawing. How do you reverse engineer it quickly?

What they are checking: Whether they can measure, infer function and make a working part under time pressure.

How do you manage your work orders and schedule when several urgent jobs come in at once?

What they are checking: Whether they can prioritize by production impact and keep records current.

About the work

Walk me through how you would program a CNC mill offline to make a replacement part from a blueprint.

What they are checking: Whether they can use CAM or offline software and plan tooling and setups correctly.

How do you choose a material and heat treatment for a die or fixture that sees heavy wear?

What they are checking: Whether they have the metallurgy knowledge the posting asks for.

How do you hold tight tolerances when grinding, and how do you check your work?

What they are checking: Whether they understand grinding technique and precise measurement tools.

How do you read a drawing with GD&T callouts, and which ones matter most for fit and function?

What they are checking: Whether they can interpret engineering drawings accurately enough to make parts that fit the first time.

What safety practices do you follow on manual and CNC machines?

What they are checking: Whether they work safely around cutting tools and moving machinery.

Practice this interview out loud.

Offer builds a real interview for this exact role at PCI Pharma Services from your resume and this job description, asks the questions one at a time, and tells you what landed. The first one is free.

Practice this out loud

The full job description

As published by PCI Pharma Services.

Life changing therapies. Global impact. Bridge to thousands of biopharma companies and their patients. We are PCI. Our investment is in People who make an impact, drive progress and create a better tomorrow. Our strategy includes building teams across our global network to pioneer and shape the future of PCI. Summary of Objective: This position is responsible for the fabrication, modification, repair, and maintenance of precision tools, dies, jigs, fixtures, and machine parts using manual and CNC machinery. Must have the ability to program CNC with offline software. The ideal candidate will have strong experience in machining and toolmaking, and be able to read blueprints, work with tight tolerances and grinding parts as necessary. High understanding of metallurgy. Reverse engineer parts in real time. Manages work order completions, spreadsheets and schedules. Essential Duties and Responsibilities: To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The essential duties and responsibilities include the following but other duties may be assigned. ​ • Program and operate manual and CNC machines (mills, lathes. grinders, & etc) • Read, interpret engineering drawings, blueprints , and CAD designs. • Build, repair and maintain stamping dies, molds, fixtures, and custom tools. • Knowledge of how different metals react to various temperatures, pressures, and forces, (metallurgy). • Inspect and measure finished parts to ensure they meet specifications. • The ability to perform routine and predictive maintenance on equipment and machines. • Must work under tight time lines with multiple priorities. • Troubleshoot and make adjustments to dies and tooling for optimal performance. • Work closely with engineers, production staff, maintenance team, • Ensure safety protocols and company procedures are followed • The ability and willingness to take ownership of work activities and ensure that they are completed accurately, efficiently, and in a timely manner. • The ability to work across organizational and functional boundaries to achieve company goals. This includes the ability to build and maintain strong relationships with cross-functional teams and managers • The ability and willingness to generate new ideas to improve work efficiencies, productivity, and customer service. • The ability to perform general machining activities using mills, lathes, drill press, grinders and other machine shop tools. • The ability to read and use micrometers, measuring tools, gauges, indicators and calibration stickers. • Knowledge of CNC programming/machining, including the ability to read, understand, and edit basic programs • General knowledge of machines and equipment functionality, including how and which tools could be used on such equipment machines. This includes the ability to learn new systems quickly, understand how parts relate and how they impact system functionality. • This position may require overtime and/or weekend work. • Knowledge of and adherence to all PCI, cGMP, and GCP policies, procedures, rules. • Attendance to work is an essential function of this position • Provide mechanical floor support on installation(s) and project(s) as required. • Performs other duties as assigned by Manager/Supervisor. • Must be able to use Excel and Microsoft Office programs. Qualifications: The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required for the stated position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Required: • High school diploma or GED, technical or trade school certification preferred • 5+ years of experience as a machinist or tool and die maker • Proficient in reading mechanical drawings and GD&T • Experience with CNC and manual tools • Familiarity with precision measuring instruments (micrometers, calipers, indicators) • Strong attention to detail • Ability to lift 50 lbs and stand for extended periods Preferred: • Apprenticeship or journeyman certification in tool and die or machining • Experience in a high-volume manufacturing environment • Knowledge of CAD/CAM software (e.g., FutureCam, MasterCam, SolidWorks) • Ability to work independently and/or part of a team. • Ability to display excellent time management skills. • Ability to adapt to changing work environments. Knowledge of CNC programming/machining, including the ability to read, understand, and edit basic programs.. • The ability to read, interpret and use the information presented in drawings, diagrams, schematics and blueprints to determine appropriate activities, tools and next steps in the production process. The hiring range for this position is $30.26 - $34.05/hour plus eligibility for an annual performance bonus. Final offer amounts are determined by multiple factors including but not limited to specific and relevant experience, education, credentials, geography, and subject matter expertise. PCI offers full-time employees a competitive benefits package that includes paid time off, health insurance coverage (including dental and vision), flexible spending account, and 401(k). #LI-DT1 Join us and be part of building the bridge between life changing therapies and patients. Let’s talk future Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Statement: PCI Pharma Services is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. We do not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, age, sex, creed, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, marital or domestic or civil union status, familial status, affectional or sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetics, disability, military eligibility or veteran status, or any other protected status. At PCI, Equity and Inclusion are at the core of our company’s purpose: Together, delivering life-changing therapies. We are committed to cultivating an inclusive workplace by holding ourselves accountable to the highest standards of understanding, fairness, respect, and equal opportunity – at every level. We envision a PCI community where everyone can belong and grow, and we strive to bring this vision to reality by continuously and intentionally assessing our people practices, policies and programs, marketing approach, and workplace culture.