Top Echelon
Industrial Millwright – Apprentice | Manual Machining & Die Repair
Location: Skokie, IL
Pay: $28.00–$32.00/hour
Schedule: 1st Shift
Overview
A respected metal fabrication operation is adding an Industrial Millwright to work directly alongside a seasoned veteran who is ready to pass on decades of hands-on knowledge. One of two long-tenured tool room employees recently retired, and the remaining specialist wants to bring in someone eager to learn the trade the right way.
This is not a role where you will be thrown into the deep end alone. The expectation is that the right person comes in with some mechanical foundation, a willingness to absorb a lot, and the attitude to build something long term. The tool room is clean, organized, and climate-controlled. The environment reflects the standard the team holds itself to.
What the Job Involves
· Learn and perform inspection, repair, and refurbishment of dies, punches, and production tooling under direct mentorship
· Fabricate replacement components and tooling solutions using manual machine tools
· Operate lathes, milling machines, surface grinders, drill presses, and related equipment
· Read and interpret engineering drawings and blueprints where available
· Apply hands-on judgment for legacy tooling that has no existing prints
· Use precision measurement instruments including micrometers, calipers, dial indicators, and height gauges
· Support tooling setup, alignment, and adjustments to maintain product quality and dimensions
· Assist production teams during changeovers, setups, and startups as needed
· Maintain tooling inventory and keep accurate records of repairs and modifications
· Follow all safety, quality, and housekeeping standards
What They Need
· High school diploma or GED required; technical or vocational training is a strong plus
· Background in manual machining with hands-on lathe and mill experience preferred
· Mechanically inclined candidates without formal machining experience will be considered if they show strong aptitude and genuine eagerness to learn
· Blueprint reading skills are a plus
· Reliable, team-oriented, and committed to a clean and organized work environment
· Someone who wants to learn a trade properly, not shortcuts