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Tool& model maker 1

Flex · Buffalo Grove, IL · Full time

Posted Oct 5, 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 miniature or sub-miniature tooling you've worked on.

What they are checking: Whether they have the fine skill the posting asks for in very small assemblies.

Tell me about a time you built parts for a prototype or equipment still being designed.

What they are checking: Whether they can work with changing designs and close engineering contact.

Tell me about a mistake you made on a precision job and what you learned.

What they are checking: Whether they are honest about errors and learn from them.

How do you keep your work area and tools organized for precision work?

What they are checking: Whether their habits support accuracy and safety in a tool room.

What would you do

A part you made doesn't fit the assembly even though it's in tolerance. What do you do?

What they are checking: Whether they look at stack-up and interrelated tolerances rather than blaming the drawing.

About the work

The posting mentions work to two hundred-thousandths of an inch. How have you held tolerances that tight?

What they are checking: Whether they have real experience at extreme precision, including measurement and temperature control.

What machines do you use to get to that level of precision, like jig grinders, wire EDM or lapping?

What they are checking: Whether they know which processes can actually hit tight tolerances.

How do you measure parts at that level, and how do you make sure the measurement itself is right?

What they are checking: Whether they understand that measurement error matters as much as machining error at tight tolerances.

How do you plan the order of operations on a complex part?

What they are checking: Whether they think ahead about setups and datums to keep accuracy across operations.

How do you maintain specialized production machinery?

What they are checking: Whether they can support production equipment, which the posting includes.

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The full job description

As published by Flex.

Flex is the diversified manufacturing partner of choice that helps market-leading brands design, build and deliver innovative products that improve the world. A career at Flex offers the opportunity to make a difference and invest in your growth in a respectful, inclusive, and collaborative environment. If you are excited about a role but don't meet every bullet point, we encourage you to apply and join us to create the extraordinary. Job Summary 

 To support our extraordinary teams who build great products and contribute to our growth, we’re looking to add a Tool and Model Maker located in Buffalo Grove IL. Responsible for producing manufacturing, tooling, special production parts, and development models requiring high degree of accuracy and precision. 0600a-0230p M-F What a typical day looks like: Constructs, alters, repairs, or maintains complex: • Tooling, specialized handling devices, and mechanized tooling to support new manufacturing technologies • Special production parts, model parts for prototype equipment, test and special equipment components requiring precise inter-related tolerances • Development models and parts for new equipment undergoing design • Specialized machinery used in production • Miniature and sub-miniature tooling and or assemblies requiring a high skill of expertise. • Works to .00002 tolerances, and closer • Provides expert support in fabrication techniques advises on design and builds optimization for form, fit, function, and cost. • Works closely with engineering, tool designers, manufacturing and manufacturing engineering personnel to exchange information or receive clarifications of the design specs or concepts to complete job assignments. • Set up and operate all types of machine tools to fabricate complex development hardware. • May work from blueprints, engineering and quality specifications. • Determines methods and sequence of machining operations required and upon completion, assembles, adjusts and debugs the tooling/equipment • Selects appropriate material for assignment based on knowledge of material qualities and application, as well as understanding sound heat treat techniques. The experience we’re looking to add to our team: • Typically requires Associate’s degree or equivalent apprenticeship and/or education. • Typically requires 1 -2 years related experience. • Demonstrates advanced technical skills. • Demonstrates knowledge of advanced technologies as well as functional techniques. • Specialized knowledge of mechanical drawing and design, advanced shop mathematics, and related physical sciences, i.e. properties of various metals and plastics. • Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts and draw valid conclusions. Ability to interpret an extensive variety of technical instructions in mathematical or diagram form and deal with several abstract and concrete variables. AW20 What you'll receive for the great work you provide: • Full range of medical, dental, and vision plans • Life Insurance • Short-term and Long-term Disability • Matching 401(k) Contributions • Vacation and Paid Sick Time • Tuition Reimbursement 
 Application Deadline: Applications for this job position will be accepted for at least five days following the job posting start date below and continuing until the end date below or until the position is filled. This posting may close sooner due to application volume. Job Posting Start Date 10-05-2026 Job Posting End Date 11-30-2026

 The base pay range for this position is provided below. The final base rate offered will be determined using job-related, non-discriminatory criteria, including but not limited to experience, qualifications, geographic location, education, external market data, and internal equity. $26.61 USD - $36.59 USD Hourly Job Category Operations Is Sponsorship Available? No Flex is an Equal Opportunity Employer and employment selection decisions are based on merit, qualifications, and abilities. We do not discriminate based on: age, race, religion, color, sex, national origin, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, disability, pregnancy status, or any other status protected by law. We're happy to provide reasonable accommodations to those with a disability for assistance in the application process. Please email accessibility@flex.com and we'll discuss your specific situation and next steps (NOTE: this email does not accept or consider resumes or applications. This is only for disability assistance. To be considered for a position at Flex, you must complete the application process first).

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