Jig and Fixture Builder

Jig and fixture builders build, repair, and maintain jigs and fixtures. Jigs and fixtures are devices used to hold and guide cutting tools and other tools that shape or finish metal and other materials. They may also maintain other types of equipment, such as machine tools, robotic systems, and automated machinery.

Job Duties

In the course of a work day, jig and fixture builders may have some or all of the following job duties:

• Study blueprints and drawings to determine the dimensions and design of jigs and fixtures
• Use a variety of machine tools to cut, drill, shape, and weld metal and other materials
• Assemble and install components to complete the assembly
• Repair and maintain existing jigs and fixtures, as needed
• Use measuring instruments to ensure that jigs and fixtures meet specifications
• Work closely with engineers and other professionals to design and develop new jigs and fixtures

Education

To become a jig and fixture builder, employers typically require at least a high school diploma or equivalent. While not always required, formal training in a related field, such as drafting, machining, or tool and die making, can be beneficial.

Certifications

There are no national certifications available for jig and fixture builders. However, some employers may require or prefer candidates who have completed training programs from equipment manufacturers.

Skills

Jig and fixture builders typically possess the following skills:

• Proficient in the use of machine tools, such as lathes, mills, and grinders
• Skilled in welding and brazing techniques
• Able to read and interpret blueprints and drawings
• Strong understanding of geometry and trigonometry
• Excellent problem-solving skills
• Accurate and precise in their work

Career growth

Jig and fixture builders can advance to supervisory roles, such as lead jig and fixture builder or supervisor of tool making. With additional education or experience, they may also move into engineering or management positions.

Transferable skills

The skills jig and fixture builders develop can be transferred to a variety of other careers, such as:

• Machinist
• Welder
• Tool and die maker
• Engineer
• Manager

Day-to-day

A typical day for a jig and fixture builder may include:

• Reviewing blueprints and drawings for new or modified jigs and fixtures
• Selecting the appropriate materials and tools for the job
• Setting up and operating machine tools to create the components of the jigs and fixtures
• Assembling and installing the components to complete the assembly
• Inspecting and testing the jigs and fixtures to ensure that they meet specifications
• Repairing and maintaining existing jigs and fixtures

Challenges

Some of the challenges jig and fixture builders may face include:

• Working in a fast-paced, demanding environment
• Meeting tight deadlines
• Working with heavy and potentially hazardous materials
• Exposure to noise, dust, and fumes
• Repetitive or physically demanding tasks

Projects

Some projects jig and fixture builders may work on include:

• Designing and building a new jig to hold a part for a welding operation
• Modifying an existing fixture to accommodate a new product design
• Repairing a damaged jig or fixture
• Developing a new process for fabricating a complex jig or fixture
• Working with a team to design and build a large-scale fixture for a major project

Personal growth

Jig and fixture builders have the opportunity to develop their skills and knowledge in a variety of ways, such as:

• Taking courses in related fields, such as machining, welding, or engineering
• Attending industry conferences and trade shows
• Reading technical publications and articles
• Participating in online forums and discussion groups
• Working on personal projects

Personality traits

Successful jig and fixture builders typically have the following personality traits:

• Detail-oriented
• Logical and analytical
• Problem-solving
• Mechanical aptitude
• Strong work ethic

Self-guided projects

Students who are interested in becoming jig and fixture builders can complete a variety of self-guided projects to prepare themselves for the career, such as:

• Building a small jig or fixture for a personal project
• Volunteering to help with a local robotics team or other organization that uses jigs and fixtures
• Shadowing a professional jig and fixture builder
• Taking online courses in related fields, such as machining, welding, or engineering
• Researching the latest trends and technologies in jig and fixture design and fabrication

Online courses and training

Online courses can be a helpful way to learn the skills and knowledge needed to become a jig and fixture builder. Online courses can provide students with the flexibility to learn at their own pace and on their own schedule.

Online courses can teach students the basics of jig and fixture design and fabrication, as well as more advanced topics, such as computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM). Online courses can also provide students with opportunities to practice their skills through hands-on projects and simulations.

While online courses alone may not be enough to prepare students for a career as a jig and fixture builder, they can be a helpful learning tool to bolster the chances of success for entering this career.