Careers

Position Overview:
The Die Technician at Iowa Aluminum plays a crucial role in ensuring the precision and readiness of extrusion dies for the production process. This position requires technical expertise to maintain and prepare dies efficiently, contributing directly to the operational excellence and quality output of the manufacturing line. The technician will work closely with the die shop and extrusion teams to optimize die performance and minimize downtime, upholding the highest standards of quality and safety.

Key Responsibilities:
1. Die Maintenance and Operations:
• Inspect, maintain, and polish dies to ensure readiness for production.
• Load and operate equipment such as nitrider and caustic tanks to support die maintenance, ensuring proper handling and safety measures with hazardous materials.
• Ensure dies are thoroughly cleaned and polished after maintenance to meet quality standards.
• Manage die storage and retrieval efficiently.
• Receive new extrusion tooling and maintain accurate tooling records.

2. Quality and Compliance:
• Ensure dies meet specifications after maintenance and corrections.
• Handle and document non-conforming dies according to protocols.
• Maintain high standards in all work processes to minimize downtime and scrap.

3. Safety and Training:
• Adhere to safety protocols and wear necessary personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Participate in training and ensure all new and existing policies are followed.
• Maintain a clean and safe work environment.

4. Teamwork and Communication:
• Provide feedback and participate in continuous improvement initiatives.
• Ensure communication is maintained with the extrusion team and supervisors.
Working Environment Notice:
This position is based in a manufacturing plant environment. Employees may be exposed to levels of noise, dust, and
potential hazards associated with operating heavy machinery and metalworking. Appropriate safety measures and protective
gear are provided to ensure employee safety.

5. Additional Responsibilities:
• Apprentice in die correction techniques to enhance skill set.
• Use hand tools and machinery required for die maintenance and operation.
• Read and comprehend tooling prints to support precision work.
• Work autonomously with minimal supervision, ensuring tasks are completed effectively and efficiently.
• Gather and build dies/support tooling for extrusion presses as scheduled by the lead planner; operate additional equipment like sandblasters as required.
• Return support tooling from the press back to the proper storage location on completion of tasks

Qualifications:
 Experience: Minimum of 2 years in a technical or mechanical role, preferably in an industrial or manufacturing environment.
 Communication: Effective communication skills, capable of following detailed instructions.
 Computer and Mathematical Skills: Ability to perform basic math calculations and operate basic computer systems.
 Technical Skills: Proficient in using hand tools, measuring instruments, and equipment relevant to die maintenance. A strong understanding of how extrusion dies work and their role in the production process.
 Physical Requirements: Physical ability to manage heavy materials and stand for extended periods. Frequent bending, lifting, and reaching.
 Safety Compliance: Proficient in safety protocols for handling hazardous materials, ensuring a safe work environment
 Attendance: Consistent and reliable attendance is required.

Why Work with Us:
Join Iowa Aluminum and play a pivotal role in supporting our production line from the die shop, where precision meets productivity. In our supportive and dynamic environment, you will not only foster professional growth and teamwork but also thrive as part of a leading team in the aluminum extrusion industry. We are committed to your development, promoting a culture of collaboration and effective communication. With access to state-of-the-art technology and a focus on training and safety, you will be well-equipped to help us exceed industry standards and deliver superior quality to our customers. At Iowa Aluminum, you will not only enhance your skills but also contribute to an operation that is essential to our success.