Tool and Die Maker
Do you love the details? Are you fascinated by creating a variety of products using the latest technology?
Design, construct, and repair tools, dies, jigs, and fixtures used in manufacturing processes. Work to extremely precise tolerances.
Salary Range
$40,000 – $70,000
per year (10th–90th percentile)
Median Salary
$39,780
per year
Growth Outlook
2024–2034 projected
Tasks & Responsibilities
- Verify conformance of machined work to specifications, using measuring instruments, such as calipers, micrometers, or fixed or telescoping gauges.
- Study machining instructions, job orders, or blueprints to determine dimensional or finish specifications, sequences of operations, setups, or tooling requirements.
- Change worn cutting tools, using wrenches.
- Select and set cutting speeds, feed rates, depths of cuts, and cutting tools, according to machining instructions or knowledge of metal properties.
- Install tools in spindles.
- Move machine controls to lower tools to workpieces and to engage automatic feeds.
- Establish zero reference points on workpieces, such as at the intersections of two edges or over hole locations.
- Position and secure workpieces on tables, using bolts, jigs, clamps, shims, or other holding devices.
- Observe drilling or boring machine operations to detect any problems.
- Lift workpieces onto work tables either manually or with hoists or direct crane operators to lift and position workpieces.
Tools of the Trade
Knowledge Areas
Mathematics
Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications. 68/100
Mechanical
Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance. 68/100
Production and Processing
Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and other techniques for maximizing the effective manufacture and distribution of goods. 53/100
Customer and Personal Service
Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction. 45/100
Design
Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models. 45/100
English Language
Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar. 45/100
Engineering and Technology
Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services. 43/100
Computers and Electronics
Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming. 40/100
Administration and Management
Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, resource allocation, human resources modeling, leadership technique, production methods, and coordination of people and resources. 39/100
Education and Training
Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects. 37/100
Work Profile
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