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Tool & Model Maker

Flex · Buffalo Grove, IL · Full time

Posted Sep 17, 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 tooling or development models you've built from scratch. What was the hardest part?

What they are checking: Whether they have built complex tooling with high precision, which is the core of the role.

Tell me about a specialized handling device or fixture you designed or built.

What they are checking: Whether they can solve problems creatively for new manufacturing technologies.

Tell me about a time you taught a skill to a less experienced machinist.

What they are checking: Whether they can pass on knowledge, which is valuable in a skilled trade.

What would you do

A tool comes back from production damaged. How do you decide how to repair it?

What they are checking: Whether they can diagnose damage and choose a repair that lasts.

How do you work from a drawing that's incomplete or unclear?

What they are checking: Whether they clarify with engineers rather than guessing on precision work.

How do you prioritize when you have a rush repair and a long-term build at the same time?

What they are checking: Whether they can balance urgent production needs with ongoing projects.

About the work

What machines are you comfortable running in a tool room, manual and CNC?

What they are checking: Whether they have the range of skills needed to build parts end to end.

How do you hold very tight tolerances on small parts?

What they are checking: Whether they understand heat, setups and measurement at a precision level.

How do you inspect your work before handing it off?

What they are checking: Whether they verify their own work with the right instruments.

What's your experience with heat treating, grinding or EDM as part of building tools?

What they are checking: Whether they understand the full tool-making process beyond machining.

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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 

 At Flex, we welcome people of all backgrounds. Our employees thrive here by living our values: we support each other as we strive to find a better way, we move fast with discipline and purpose, and we do the right thing always. Through a respectful, inclusive and collaborative culture, a career at Flex offers the opportunity to make a difference, invest in your career growth and join our purpose -- to make great products that create value and improve people’s lives. Summary: The Tool & Model Maker will be based in Buffalo Grove IL, reporting to Tooling Manager is responsible for producing manufacturing, tooling, special production parts, and development models requiring high degree of accuracy and precision. Schedule: Mon-Fri 6:00am-2:30pm Responsibilities: • 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. Qualifications: • Requires a High School Diploma or equivalent, technical training, or equivalent experience. Associates degree preferred. • Typically requires a minimum of 1-2 years of related experience, i.e. Specialized knowledge of mechanical drawing and design, advanced shop mathematics, and related physical sciences, i.e. properties of various metals and plastics 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. 

 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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