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CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
CNC PROGRAMMER
Location: St. Joseph, MO
Position Summary:
Van-Am Tool & Engineering is seeking an experienced CNC Programmer to support the manufacture of high-precision aerospace and defense components. This role focuses on developing, optimizing, and maintaining CNC programs for a variety of equipment, including multi-axis machining centers, in a fast-paced, high-mix environment.
What You'll Do
Translate 3D CAD models and engineering drawings into accurate CNC programs.
Write, modify, and optimize programs for CNC mills, lathes, grinders, and multi-axis machines.
Determine machining strategies, tooling, cutting paths, and sequences to meet quality, cost, and delivery targets.
Run simulations and test parts; troubleshoot and refine programs as needed.
Provide setup instructions and technical support to machinists and production teams.
Collaborate with Engineering, Quality, and Production to resolve manufacturing issues.
Drive continuous improvement in cycle time, setup reduction, tooling utilization, and machining performance.
Maintain CNC program libraries and ensure compliance with safety, quality, and company standards.
What You Bring
Associate's degree in CNC Programming, Manufacturing Technology, or a related field, or equivalent experience.
3+ years of CNC programming experience in a manufacturing environment.
Hands-on experience programming multi-axis CNC machines.
Proficiency with CAD/CAM software; SolidWorks and CAMWorks strongly preferred.
Strong knowledge of machining principles, blueprint interpretation, GD&T, and advanced math (algebra/trigonometry).
Effective problem-solving, communication, and teamwork skills.
Preferred
Bachelor's degree in Mechanical or Manufacturing Engineering.
Experience in aerospace or defense manufacturing.
Familiarity with ISO 9001 and AS9100 quality standards.
Why Join Van-Am
Competitive pay and comprehensive benefits (medical, dental, vision, life, disability, 401(k)).
Stable, growing company with a strong aerospace and defense customer base.
Team-driven culture focused on safety, quality, accountability, and continuous improvement.
For more information or to apply now, please click the "Apply Now' button below.
CWI/QUALITY INSPECTOR
Location: St. Joseph, MO
Position Summary:
Are you someone who thrives in a dynamic and hands-on work environment? Van-Am Tool & Engineering is seeking dedicated individuals for our Full Time General Labor positions in Saint Joseph, MO. As a vital member of our manufacturing team, you will have the opportunity to contribute to the production process and see the tangible results of your hard work each day. This Onsite role offers competitive hourly pay ranging from $18.00 to $20.00, providing a great opportunity for growth and stability. If you are looking to kickstart your career in a company that values teamwork and continuous improvement, this position is perfect for you.
Day Shift: 5:00AM - 3:30PM, M-Th - 4 Days
Evening Shift: 3:30 PM - 2:00 AM - 4 Days
Weekends: 5:00AM - 5:30PM, F-Su - 3 Days (11% Differential)
You will be given great benefits such as Medical, Dental, Vision, 401(k), Life Insurance, Health Savings Account, Flexible Spending Account, and Paid Time Off. Join us and be part of a team that is dedicated to excellence and innovation in the manufacturing industry.
Van-Am Tool & Engineering: Our Story
Established in 1981, Van-Am has become a leading provider of high quality tooling, stamping, machining and fabrication services to a variety of industries and customers throughout the Midwest. The company also provides laser cutting, press braking, robotic welding, powder coat and wet paint solutions, and offers design and build services for projects of all sizes and complexities.
Are you excited about this General Labor job?
As a new team member in the General Labor position at Van-Am Tool & Engineering, you can expect to assist in various tasks such as assembly, packaging, and operating machinery under supervision. You will work closely with experienced staff to learn the ropes and ensure smooth production processes. Our facility operates Day, Night, and Weekend shifts to accommodate different schedules, providing flexibility for our employees.
You will be part of a supportive team that values your contributions and growth within the company. Your typical day will involve following safety protocols, maintaining a clean work area, and working efficiently to meet production goals.
Requirements for this General Labor job
To excel in the General Labor role at Van-Am Tool & Engineering, candidates should possess a strong work ethic, attention to detail, and the ability to work effectively in a team environment. Being a problem solver and having a proactive attitude are essential traits for success in this position. Additionally, good communication skills and a willingness to learn and take direction from supervisors are key to thriving in a manufacturing environment. While no specific software or tools are required, being quick on your feet and having a basic understanding of manufacturing processes will be beneficial. Adaptability and a positive attitude towards continuous improvement are also highly valued characteristics at our company.
Your next step
If you feel that this job is what you're looking for just follow the instructions on this page. Good luck!
For more information or to apply now, please click the "Apply Now' button below.
GENERAL LABOR
Location: St. Joseph, MO
Position Summary:
Van-Am Tool & Engineering is seeking a hands-on CWI/Quality Inspector who takes pride in precision and accountability. If you are an AWS Certified Welding Inspector with strong manufacturing experience and a deep understanding of weld quality, this is an opportunity to contribute to aerospace and defense manufacturing programs where standards are high and quality is critical.
We operate in an ISO-certified manufacturing environment where compliance and workmanship are non-negotiable. This role is essential to protecting product integrity, supporting production performance, and ensuring welded components meet AWS D1.1, engineering drawings, and customer specifications.
Van-Am offers competitive compensation, comprehensive benefits, and a four-day work schedule with overtime opportunities. You will work in a clean, organized manufacturing facility that values structure, discipline, and continuous improvement.
Responsibilities:
- Perform in-process and final inspections as a CWI and Quality Inspector in a fast-paced manufacturing setting.
- Conduct visual weld inspections and verify dimensions using precision inspection tools.
- Interpret blueprints, welding symbols, and GD&T to confirm compliance.
- Review and approve welding procedures and welder qualifications.
- Administer weld tests and document results as part of our manufacturing quality system.
- Support FAI, corrective actions, and nonconforming investigations.
- Work closely with Production and Engineering to solve manufacturing quality issues.
- Support internal and customer audits within our ISO manufacturing system.
Requirements:
- Active AWS CWI certification.
- 3–5+ years of welding inspection experience in a manufacturing environment.
- Strong knowledge of AWS D1.1, welding processes (MIG, TIG, robotic), and inspection methods.
- Experience working in ISO manufacturing (AS9100 a plus).
If you're a CWI who is ready to make an impact as an Inspector in high-level manufacturing company, we encourage you to apply today!
For more information or to apply now, please click the "Apply Now' button below.
INVENTORY CONTROL SPECIALIST
Location: St. Joseph, MO
Position Summary:
Van-Am Tool & Engineering is hiring an Inventory Control Specialist to play a critical role in keeping our manufacturing operation running efficiently. This is not a desk-only role. It is hands-on, fast-paced, and central to how we manage material flow, accuracy, and production support. This position offers $25.00 to $29.00 per hour based on experience. If you have experience in inventory control within a manufacturing environment and take pride in precision and accountability, this is a strong opportunity.
In this role, you will own inventory control accuracy across the facility. You will work directly with Production, Quality, and Purchasing to ensure materials are where they need to be, when they need to be there. Strong inventory control discipline is essential to maintaining production flow and meeting customer expectations in a high-performance manufacturing environment.
Your day will include managing inventory control transactions in Epicor, performing cycle counts, resolving discrepancies, and ensuring all materials are properly labeled, stored, and tracked. You will be actively involved on the shop floor, supporting material movement and ensuring inventory control processes are followed consistently across all stages of manufacturing.
This position requires someone who is detail-driven, organized, and comfortable operating in a deadline-driven manufacturing setting. You should be confident identifying and resolving issues, maintaining system accuracy, and holding a high standard for inventory control practices.
What You Bring:
- 2–5 years of inventory control experience in a manufacturing environment
- Strong understanding of material flow and ERP/MRP systems (Epicor preferred)
- High attention to detail and ability to resolve inventory control discrepancies independently
- Solid Excel skills and comfort working with data
Why Join Van-Am:
- 4-day work week (Monday–Thursday)
- Stable, growing manufacturing company serving aerospace and defense customers
- Competitive hourly pay with consistent schedule
- Team-focused environment with direct impact on operations
If you are looking for a role where inventory control directly drives success in a manufacturing environment, this position offers both challenge and stability.
For more information or to apply now, please click the "Apply Now' button below.
MASTER MACHINIST
Location: St. Joseph, MO
Position Summary:
$32-37 per hour rate of pay is dependent upon knowledge, skills and ability.
Van-Am Tool & Engineering is seeking a Master Machinist to join our precision manufacturing team in St. Joseph, MO. This full-time role offers a steady 4-day, 10-hour shift schedule (Monday–Thursday) in a dynamic and technically advanced shop environment.
About the Role
As a Master Machinist, you will program, set up, and operate CNC machines to produce complex, tight-tolerance parts for aerospace, defense, and other high-demand industries. Your advanced machining knowledge, craftsmanship, and problem-solving skills will help set the standard for quality and efficiency across our shop.
Key Responsibilities
Program, set up, and operate CNC lathes, mills, and multi-axis machining centers.
Interpret engineering blueprints, GD&T, and technical specifications with precision.
Troubleshoot machining and tooling issues with confidence.
Mentor less experienced machinists and support team development.
Ensure parts meet AS9100 and ISO 9001 quality requirements.
Maintain efficiency, accuracy, and safety in every operation.
What We're Looking For
Extensive CNC machining experience in both lathe and mill operations.
Mastery of machining principles and problem-solving skills.
Strong blueprint reading and metrology knowledge.
Mechanical aptitude with the ability to lift up to 50 lbs.
Excellent communication, adaptability, and teamwork skills.
What We Offer
Competitive pay based on experience and mastery.
Comprehensive benefits: medical, dental, vision, life, disability, 401(k), HSA/FSA options.
Paid time off and holidays.
Stable, growing company with a reputation for quality and innovation.
For more information or to apply now, please click the "Apply Now' button below.
PRESS BRAKE OPERATOR
Location: St. Joseph, MO
Position Summary:
$23-27 per hour Rate of pay is dependent upon knowledge, skills and ability
Van-Am Tool & Engineering is hiring a press brake operator to support our high-performance manufacturing environment in St. Joseph, MO. This is a hands-on role within a growing aerospace and defense-focused manufacturing company where precision, accountability, and consistency matter.
As a press brake operator, you will play a critical role in our manufacturing process, forming metal components that support demanding aerospace applications. This press brake operator position requires strong technical ability, attention to detail, and the ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced manufacturing setting. If you have experience as a press brake operator and want to work in an aerospace-driven manufacturing environment, this is a strong opportunity.
In this role, the press brake operator will set up and operate equipment, read blueprints, and ensure parts meet strict aerospace and manufacturing quality standards. You will work closely with production and quality teams to support overall manufacturing performance and deliver consistent results for aerospace customers.
What You Will Do:
- Set up and operate equipment as a press brake operator in a precision manufacturing environment
- Read and interpret blueprints to meet aerospace and manufacturing specifications
- Inspect parts and maintain quality standards required in aerospace manufacturing
- Support material flow and production efficiency across the manufacturing floor
- Maintain safety, organization, and performance expectations in a manufacturing setting
Why Join Van-Am:
- 4-day work week (Monday–Thursday)
- Competitive pay: $23–$27/hour based on experience
- Work in a stable, growing aerospace manufacturing environment
- Opportunities to grow your career as a press brake operator within advanced manufacturing
Van-Am is a trusted partner in aerospace manufacturing, and we expect every press brake operator to contribute to quality, efficiency, and continuous improvement. If you are an experienced press brake operator looking to build a long-term career in manufacturing and aerospace, apply today.
For more information or to apply now, please click the "Apply Now' button below.
PRODUCTION SUPERVISOR
Location: St. Joseph, MO
Position Summary:
Van-Am Tool & Engineering is seeking an experienced Production Supervisor to lead daily manufacturing operations in a fast-paced metal fabrication environment. This role is responsible for driving safe, efficient, and high-quality production while meeting schedule and delivery commitments.
Production Supervisors at Van-Am are accountable for successfully running assigned production areas, which includes Paint, Welding, and Tool Room operations. The ideal candidate is a hands-on leader who understands manufacturing flow, people management, and operational discipline.
Key Responsibilities
Lead and supervise hourly production employees to meet safety, quality, productivity, and delivery goals
Plan and execute daily production schedules; adjust resources to address changing priorities
Enforce safety standards, housekeeping, and company policies
Ensure work is performed to engineering drawings, work instructions, and quality requirements
Monitor productivity, scrap, rework, and downtime; take corrective action as needed
Coordinate with Scheduling, Quality, Engineering, Maintenance, and Materials to resolve production issues
Train, coach, and develop employees; provide clear expectations and timely feedback
Address attendance, performance, and conduct issues consistently and professionally
Support continuous improvement initiatives and standard work practices
Maintain accurate production reporting and shift communication
Qualifications
3–5 years of supervisory or lead experience in a manufacturing environment
Strong working knowledge of production operations and labor management
Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and work instructions
Experience in an ISO or AS9100 quality environment strongly preferred
Effective communicator with strong leadership and problem-solving skills
Comfortable working in a hands-on, shop-floor leadership role
Van-Am offers a stable manufacturing environment, competitive pay, and the opportunity to make a direct impact on operational performance.
For more information or to apply now, please click the "Apply Now' button below.
QUALITY TECHNICIAN
Location: St. Joseph, MO
Position Summary:
$23-26 per hour Rate of pay is dependent upon knowledge, skills and ability.
Van-Am is a precision manufacturing company serving aerospace, defense, and industrial customers with a strong commitment to quality, reliability, and continuous improvement. We operate in a structured manufacturing environment where quality is built into every process, from receiving through final inspection.
Position Summary
The Quality Technician ensures that products meet internal quality standards, customer specifications, and regulatory requirements. This role supports production by inspecting materials and components at multiple stages of the manufacturing process, including receiving, welding, machining, and assembly.
Key Responsibilities
- Perform in-process and final quality inspections in a metal manufacturing environment.
- Inspect raw materials and finished components using precision measuring tools.
- Conduct testing to verify conformance to engineering drawings and quality standards.
- Document inspection results and maintain accurate quality records.
- Identify nonconforming material and support root cause and corrective action efforts.
- Partner with production teams to strengthen quality performance across manufacturing operations.
- Support ISO 9001 / AS9100 quality system requirements.
- Maintain and calibrate inspection and testing equipment.
- Assist with continuous improvement initiatives that enhance quality and manufacturing efficiency.
Qualifications
- High school diploma or GED required; associate degree preferred.
- 3–5 years of experience in a metal manufacturing environment.
- Proficiency using micrometers, calipers, depth gauges, indicators, and go/no-go gauges.
- Ability to read and interpret 2D and 3D engineering drawings.
- Working knowledge of GD&T.
- Familiarity with quality tools such as 8D, SPC, and 5 Whys.
- Strong math and communication skills.
Work Environment
Fast-paced manufacturing floor with frequent movement throughout production areas. Must be able to stand for extended periods and lift up to 50 lbs.
If you are detail-oriented and committed to delivering consistent quality in a structured manufacturing setting, we encourage you to apply.
For more information or to apply now, please click the "Apply Now' button below.
TOOL & DIE SETTER
Location: St. Joseph, MO
Position Summary:
$23-26 per hour Rate of pay is dependent upon knowledge, skills and ability.
Looking for a manufacturing career that gives you four days off every week? Van-Am Tool & Engineering is hiring a Tool & Die Setter for our weekend manufacturing shift. Work three 12-hour days-Friday, Saturday, and Sunday-36 hours total, and get paid as if you worked 40 hours through our weekend shift differential.
This is a high-impact manufacturing role supporting our stamping operations. Your work directly drives manufacturing efficiency, quality, and on-time delivery in a precision metal manufacturing environment.
What You'll Do
Set up and remove stamping dies in a production manufacturing setting
Perform die adjustments, minor repairs, and preventive maintenance
Troubleshoot tooling and press issues to reduce manufacturing downtime
Read blueprints and manufacturing setup documentation
Verify first-piece quality to ensure manufacturing standards are met
Partner with operators and supervisors to meet manufacturing production goals
Maintain safe, organized manufacturing work areas
What You Bring
1+ year of experience in manufacturing, stamping, or metal fabrication preferred
Strong mechanical aptitude and understanding of manufacturing equipment
Ability to read prints and follow manufacturing instructions
Experience with progressive or transfer dies is a plus
Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. and work in an active manufacturing environment
Why This Manufacturing Role Stands Out
Work only three days per week
- Weekend shift differential pays you as if you worked 40 hours
Competitive base pay plus shift premium
Stable, growing manufacturing company serving aerospace and defense customers
Benefits
Medical, dental, and vision insurance
401(k) with company match
- Paid time off
Career advancement in a high-performance manufacturing organization
For more information or to apply now, please click the "Apply Now' button below.
ROBOTIC WELDER
Location: St. Joseph, MO
Position Summary:
Van-Am Tool & Engineering is seeking a Robotic Welder to join our team in St. Joseph, MO. This position is responsible for operating and maintaining robotic welding machines to produce high-quality welded components that meet customer specifications. The role involves setting up welding fixtures, loading parts, monitoring weld integrity, and ensuring production runs efficiently while maintaining quality standards. Additional responsibilities include performing auxiliary tasks such as cleaning and packaging products and operating other production equipment, including presses, lasers, and various machine shop tools.
Key Responsibilities
The Robotic Welder is responsible for setting up fixtures and verifying part numbers before production begins. The role requires adjusting fixtures, loading parts into welding machines, and running Fanuc robotic welding systems while closely observing operations to ensure weld integrity. The individual will conduct first-piece inspections using precision measuring instruments and submit samples to the quality department if specifications are met. Additional tasks include performing required finishing operations such as grinding, removing rough spots, and ensuring all components meet dimensional and visual requirements. The position may also require the use of MIG and TIG welding techniques as needed.
Required Qualifications
Candidates must have the ability to read work orders and blueprints to verify materials, tolerances, and production sequences. Accuracy in completing paperwork and system entries is essential. Strong attention to detail, the ability to work under deadlines, and the capability to handle multiple tasks in a fast-paced manufacturing environment are required. This position also demands the physical ability to lift up to 50 pounds as needed and perform other tasks as assigned.
Van-Am Tool & Engineering offers a hands-on work environment with opportunities for skill development and career growth. If you have experience in robotic welding or are looking to build your expertise in a manufacturing setting, apply today!
For more information or to apply now, please click the "Apply Now' button below.