Job Information
John Deere John Deere Dubuque - Tool and Die Maker Apprentice in Dubuque, Iowa
John Deere Dubuque - Tool and Die Maker Apprentice
Date: Apr 1, 2026
Location: Dubuque, Iowa, US, 52001
Company: John Deere
At John Deere, we run so life can leap forward. This powerful purpose is our promise to humankind that we will dream, design, and deliver breakthrough products that sustain our world for generations to come. The world is counting on us to feed billions of people and build vital infrastructures in villages, towns and megacities. And we live up to the legacy our founder forged in a one-room blacksmith's shop nearly two centuries ago by creating a culture that brings out the best in all of us. A culture where great ideas thrive because every voice is heard.
Primary Location: United States (US) - Iowa - Dubuque
As a Tool and Die Maker Apprentice with the John Deere Dubuque Works, you will:
Under the guidance and supervision of experienced Tool & Die Makers, the Tool & Die Maker Apprentice plans, lays out, constructs, and/or inspects by intricate gaging and layout in a team environment, a variety of intricate, highly specialized tools, fixtures, jigs, dies or gages.
The apprentice will progressively develop skills in precision measurement, machining, and tool construction while working toward journey-level proficiency.
With training and supervision, the apprentice will learn to safely use a variety of departmental machines and standard toolmaker tools, including precision measuring equipment such as; surface plates, parallels, and “V” blocks, calipers, micrometers, indicators, and protractors, gage blocks, sine bars, and comparators
Job Details are dependent on duties assigned and training progression, but generally include:
Assists in working from tool and product design prints, sketches, and verbal instructions
Learns to plan the proper sequence of operations to complete assigned tasks
Performs basic layout work and gradually advances to more complex layouts
Assists with machine setup and learns how to use standard and special tooling
Supports experienced toolmakers in tool tryout and performance evaluation
Learns inspection techniques using precision measuring instruments
Assists with documenting findings related to tool performance or dimensional issues
Learns proper methods for checking and adjusting inspection equipment
Performs routine equipment care, including lubrication, cleaning, and coolant maintenance
Maintains a safe, clean, and organized work environment
Training & Development
Structured on-the-job training provided with progressive exposure to advanced tooling concepts
Apprenticeship completion at a minimum of 8,000 hours, with progressive wage increases dependent on performance and demonstrated ability
Opportunity to advance toward Journeyman Tool & Die Maker status upon successful completion of apprenticeship requirements
Minimum Qualifications:
Must be at least 18 years of age.
Must have at least one of the following:
High School Diploma or G.E.D.
National Career Readiness Certificate (NCRC)
At least 3 years of manufacturing work experience
Enrollment in or willingness to pursue an AAS degree in Tool & Die or a related skilled trade program
Ability to perform manual tasks related to described job duties for duration of work shift; including but not limited to frequent standing, walking, bending, lifting, and performing of repetitive actions.
Ability and willingness to work any shift and potential overtime (including weekends).
What Makes You Stand Out (Preferred Qualifications):
- At least 2 years of prior tool & die making experience (or equivalent certification / training)
Why Work at John Deere? Why Work anywhere else?
If you strive to do great work, excel in creative environments, thrive in teams, and live for problem solving – this is the place for you.
At John Deere, your ideas, experiences, and values matter.
Please see below for a summary of the value of your John Deere career and total rewards available to you to support you and your well-being.
Highly competitive base pay and performance bonuses
Savings & Retirement benefits
Wellbeing – Physical and Mental Healthcare
Paid Holidays & Competitive Vacation Packages
Employee Assistance Programs
Tuition Assistance
Fitness subsidies and on-site gyms at specific Deere locations
Charitable contribution match
Rebate Program & numerous discount programs for personal use
John Deere is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.
Nearest Major Market: Dubuque
Job Segment: Electrical, Machinist, Apprentice, Manufacturing, Engineering, Entry Level