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Tool & Die Maker III - (1st Shift)

Apogee Enterprises · Wausau, WI · Full time

Posted Sep 4, 2026 · We last checked this listing on Oct 6, 2026

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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 the most complex die, mold or fixture you designed and built. What made it hard?

What they are checking: Whether they work at the expert Level III, leading complex tooling from design through tryout.

Tell me about a time you improved a tool or process so it ran longer or made better parts.

What they are checking: Focus on process optimization, which the posting names as a core strength of a Level III toolmaker.

You'd mentor others in the shop. Tell me about someone you trained and how you did it.

What they are checking: Whether they can pass on hard-won skill patiently, which keeps the trade alive in the shop.

How do you document a tool change or repair so the next person knows what was done?

What they are checking: Whether they keep good tool records, which saves time and prevents repeat problems.

What would you do

A die is producing parts out of tolerance halfway through a run. How do you find the cause?

What they are checking: Systematic troubleshooting of wear, setup, material and press issues, under pressure to get production back.

How do you work with production when a tool needs to come out for repair during a busy run?

What they are checking: How they balance production needs with tool health and communicate the tradeoff.

About the work

What CAD/CAM software and CNC equipment have you programmed and run?

What they are checking: Depth with the digital side of toolmaking, which the role expects alongside traditional machining.

Walk me through how you read a GD&T callout like a position tolerance with a datum reference, and how you'd check it.

What they are checking: Real understanding of GD&T and inspection, not just recognizing the symbols on a print.

How do you decide whether to repair a worn die or build a new one?

What they are checking: Judgment that weighs cost, downtime, part quality and remaining tool life.

What steps do you take to stay safe around presses and machining centers?

What they are checking: Safety habits like lockout, guarding and PPE that an experienced toolmaker should follow without being told.

Practice this interview out loud.

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The full job description

As published by Apogee Enterprises.

Apogee Architectural Metals About Architectural Metals Apogee Enterprises, Inc. (NASDAQ: APOG), founded in 1949 and headquartered in Minneapolis, MN designs and delivers architectural products and services that enclose and enhance commercial buildings. www.apog.com Apogee Architectural Metals is a segment of Apogee specializing in aluminum framing, windows, storefront, curtainwall, and entrance systems. We provide integrated capabilities, including design, engineering, extrusion, finishing, fabrication and assembly, across North America. Through our brands including Alumicor, EFCO, Linetec, Tubelite, and Wausau, we deliver quality, consistency, and value-added services throughout our portfolio. Job Overview Tool & Die Maker III is an expert in the field, capable of leading projects, mentoring others, and solving advanced challenges, with a strong focus on precision and process optimization. Key Responsibilities Mastery of all aspects of tool and die making, including advanced machining, CAD/CAM programming, and CNC operation. Expertise in designing, creating, and modifying highly complex and custom tools, dies, molds, and fixtures. Deep understanding of geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T) and advanced blueprint reading. Ability to oversee the entire tool and die-making process, from design and fabrication to testing and implementation in production. Knowledge of advanced materials and coatings, including the selection of appropriate materials for specific applications. Leadership skills, including training and mentoring less experienced tool and die makers. Leadership abilities, with experience in guiding a team and ensuring quality and efficiency in tool and die production. Must be cross-trained and able to support all Tool & Die I, II, & III roles. Required Skills and Qualifications Essential Qualifications • High school diploma or equivalent. • 5+ years of experience with advanced expertise in tool and die making. • Ability to use and accurately read measuring devices (tape measures). • Ability to use hand tools (hammer, wrench, level, etc.). • Ability to follow blueprints. • Ability to read and interpret Work Instructions and Standard Operating Procedures. • Ability to use a computer with basic proficiency (data entry). Preferred Qualifications • Completion of a relevant apprenticeship or technical program. Core Competencies • Safety - Expert • Technical Knowledge - Expert • Quality of Work - Expert • Communication - Expert • Critical Thinking - Expert • Dependability - Expert • Teamwork - Expert • Adaptability & Flexibility - Expert Performance Expectations • Comprehend and follow instructions. • Perform assigned tasks. • Maintain an appropriate work pace. • Maintain accuracy in work completed. • Support continuous work culture. Work Environment • The position is based in a manufacturing facility, which may involve exposure to loud noises, varying temperatures, and dust from production processes. • Employees will frequently work near or with machinery with moving parts, following strict safety protocols. • The facility operates on shift schedules with potential for overtime, including weekends, based on production needs. • This environment emphasizes team collaboration and adherence to safety regulations to ensure the well-being of all employees. Our Benefits We care about and invest in our employees. We are proud to offer a comprehensive benefits package designed to support their well-being and foster professional development. Here is a glimpse of what you can look forward to if you join our team. • Competitive Benefits Package for employees and their dependents (Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Disability) • Incentive Plans • 401(k) with employer contribution and match • Employee Stock Purchase Plan with employer match • Paid Time Off (Vacation and Sick Time) • Paid Holidays • Tuition Reimbursement Program • Employee Assistance Program (EAP) • Wellness Program • Training and Career Progression Apogee and our brands are an Equal Opportunity Employer.

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