Job descriptionWe are searching on behalf of our client, a metals processor/parts fabricator, located in west end of the GTA (Brampton/Mississauga) for an experienced Die Shop Manager.
Position Summary
The Die Shop Manager leads the technical and operational activities of the die shop within the company's extrusion facility. This role oversees die design, procurement, maintenance and repair, ensures dies meet production and quality requirements, and drives continuous improvement. The Die Shop Manager mentors and supervises die shop personnel and collaborates with production, quality and maintenance teams to optimize die performance to meet the KPI targets of the Die Shop.
Job Responsibilities
Lead the design, specification and procurement of new extrusion dies using CAD/CAM software; work with external suppliers to ensure timely delivery and quality.
Oversee die maintenance, repair and refurbishment to maximize die life; diagnose wear or damage and coordinate corrective actions.
Identify and implement process improvements to enhance die performance, reduce scrap and increase productivity using lean manufacturing and root‑cause analysis.
Lead the company's 360B die performance improvement project whereby poor performing dies are re-evaluated to optimize both die design and extrusion parameters
Supervise and mentor die shop technicians and junior engineers; provide training on die maintenance, safety and new technologies; coordinate work assignments.
Maintain administrative systems in EPICS to ensure die history/performance is fully documented and lead corrective actions to chronic die failures
Maintain accurate records of die designs, maintenance histories and tooling specifications; ensure dies conform to dimensional and quality standards.
Manage die shop budgets for tooling, consumables and capital purchases; plan and execute die‑related projects.
Promote a culture of safety and ensure compliance with company policies and regulatory requirements.
Collaborate with LAK die shop teams on sharing best practices.
Maintain a safe and clean workspace at all times
Responsible to follow the Occupational Health and Safety Act and all Company Policies
Qualification Required
Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering or a related discipline; a tool‑and‑die making certificate with extensive experience may also be considered.
Minimum of 7 years of experience in die design, maintenance and repair within aluminum extrusion or similar manufacturing environments.
Proficiency with CAD/CAM software (AutoCAD, SolidWorks, Inventor) and familiarity with CNC machining and heat‑treat processes.
Knowledge of extrusion process parameters, material properties and die steels.
Previous supervisory or team‑lead experience with strong coaching and mentoring skills.
Skills Required
Expert understanding of aluminum extrusion die design, die life management and tooling optimization.
Strong problem‑solving skills, including root‑cause analysis and corrective action planning.
Leadership and communication skills to direct a diverse team and collaborate with cross‑functional departments, with experience in a 24/7 manufacturing operation.
Project management ability to prioritize tasks, manage budgets and meet deadlines.
Proficiency with precision measurement tools and an understanding of quality control principles.
Familiarity with lean manufacturing, 5S and continuous improvement methodologies.
Commitment to health and safety in an industrial environment.
Computer skills in excel, AutoCAD, and ERP software
Working Conditions
Shop and plant environment with exposure to noise, heat and moving machinery; appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) must be worn.
Frequent handling of dies, heavy equipment and machine tools; requires standing, lifting and climbing.
Occasional travel to suppliers or other company facilities may be required.
