Tool and Die Maker
A Tool and Die Maker is a skilled professional who specializes in producing precision metal parts, tools, and fixtures, often utilizing computerized machinery and mechanical tools. Their work involves analyzing specifications and schematics, setting up production equipment, and operating machines to manufacture and repair these intricate components. This occupation requires a high level of detail orientation, understanding of mechanical systems, and collaboration with other professionals to ensure accuracy and efficiency in production.
The work environment for tool and die makers is predominantly found in machine shops and manufacturing facilities, where safety precautions are essential due to the potential hazards associated with heavy machinery. While a high school diploma is often the minimum requirement, further education in mathematics, engineering, or related fields can enhance job prospects. On-the-job training is typical, with many tool and die makers completing apprenticeships that combine practical experience with classroom instruction. The median yearly earnings for this profession are approximately $53,180, and the job outlook indicates little to no change in employment opportunities. This field attracts individuals who enjoy solving problems and working hands-on with machinery.
Tool and Die Maker
Snapshot
Career Cluster(s): Manufacturing
Interests: Machinery, engineering, mechanical drawing, drafting, computer science, mathematics
Earnings (Yearly Median): $53,180 per year $25.57 per hour
Employment & Outlook: 0% (Little or no change)
Entry-Level Education High school diploma, though only sometimes required.
Related Work Experience None
On-the-job Training Long-term on-the-job training
Overview
Sphere of Work. Tool and die makers produce precision metal parts, tools, fixtures, and other instruments. Metal forms, known as dies, are also created. These items are produced using computerized and mechanically controlled machines. Makers analyze specifications and schematics for what they are creating, set up the devices needed for production, and then operate the machines. They also perform repairs on the instruments they produce.
Work Environment. Tool and die makers work in machine shops and other well-ventilated manufacturing environments. They frequently work with tools and machinery that can present a variety of hazards. Because of this, makers must follow various safety precautions, including wearing safety gear, such as helmets and goggles, which helps protect them from extreme heat and metal shards. Tool and die makers collaborate with other workers to ensure tools and dies are produced quickly and accurately.
Occupation Interest. Being a tool and die maker requires excellent attention to design specifics, understanding schematics, and collaborating with others. The job attracts people who are very detail-oriented and enjoy working with their hands. Tool and die makers have a strong knowledge of various machinery, allowing them to produce and repair various items. Their work is dynamic and involves solving new problems daily.
A Day in the Life—Duties and Responsibilities. Like others in the machinery industry, tool and die makers are detail-oriented people with a strong knowledge of how things work. Their day-to-day responsibilities can vary depending on the product being made or repaired. The time it takes to complete a job also depends on what is being produced.
The work of a tool and die maker begins with analyzing blueprints, schematics, or other drawings created by engineers. Makers rely heavily on computers for these drawings. They use computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) programs to assess a job. Once the job is assessed, a maker will set up the machinery needed to manufacture the tools and dies. The machinery and tools used in production vary, but they are typically manual, automatic, or computer numerical control (CNC) machines or tools. Makers use these computer programs to create blueprints for tools and dies.
After the tool or die parts have been cut, a maker will file or grind them as necessary so that newly manufactured parts fit together smoothly. Tools and dies are inspected for dimensional accuracy and defects. Toolmakers then test the device produced to ensure quality. Tool and die makers produce a variety of tools and other metal forms. They can also create metal molds for die-casting composite materials and plastics.
Die Sinkers (601.280-022). Die sinkers lay out machine and finish impression cavities in die blocks to produce forging dies.
Mold Makers (601.280-030). Mold makers lay out, machine, fit, assemble, and finish metal parts to make and repair dies for diecasting of metal products.
Tool Makers (601.280-042). Tool makers analyze specifications, lay out stock, and operate machine tools to fabricate or repair cutting tools and other machine tools.
Bench and Stamping Die Makers (601.281-010). Bench and stamping die makers lay out, fit, and assemble casting and metal parts to make and repair stamping dies.
Die Finishers (601.381-010). Die finishers grind, file, sand, and polish surfaces of metalworking die members to specified shapes and smoothness and inspect dies for model conformity.
Work Environment
Immediate Physical Environment. Machine shops and other manufacturing settings are the primary locations where tool and die makers perform their work. Some tool and die makers work in a more office-like environment when using computers for design and manufacturing processes.
Plant Environment. Tool and die makers generally work in manufacturing environments that are filled with heavy machinery. These shops present many hazards, so makers must be constantly aware of their surroundings and follow safety standards.
Human Environment. Tool and die makers collaborate regularly with colleagues and supervisors in the shop. They also communicate with clients and manufacturers.
Technological Environment. Tool and die makers use many technologies, including small hand tools like wrenches and screwdrivers and large, automated machinery for cutting metal. They use CAM and CAD programs and CNC machines for metal design and manufacturing.
Education, Training, and Advancement
High School/Secondary. Most tool and die makers employers require applicants to have a high school diploma or the equivalent. Several introductory high school courses can provide a strong background in mathematics and computer science, which are crucial to the field. Math courses, such as trigonometry and geometry, should be considered. Students interested in tool and die-making can also benefit from drafting, mechanical drawing, and engineering courses. Many high schools offer shop classes that provide students with experience in basic machinery, and some of these shops also offer metalworking instruction.
Postsecondary. Many employers require a tool and die maker to have a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, such as mathematics or engineering. Several advanced positions require a postsecondary degree. Colleges and universities offer many degree programs beneficial to those interested in the field, including applied calculus, advanced computer science, physics, and mechanical engineering.
Many technical and vocational schools offer programs related to tool and die-making. These training programs can last from several weeks to several months, and the schools often provide students with certification and help them find entry-level positions in the industry upon completion.
Those who do not receive training through a technical or vocational school will commonly receive training through an apprenticeship program. Apprenticeships can last four to five years. Some combine on-the-job hours with formal classroom instruction. In some circumstances, apprentices can obtain program sponsorships from local unions or manufacturers.
Related Occupations
− Computer-Control Machine Tool Operator
− Photoengraver & Lithographer
Bibliography
“Machinists and Tool and Die Makers.” Occupational Outlook Handbook. Bureau of Labor Statistics, US Department of Labor, 17 Apr. 2024, www.bls.gov/ooh/production/machinists-and-tool-and-die-makers.htm. Accessed 27 Aug. 2024.
“Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2023: 51-4111 Tool and Die Makers.” Occupational Employment Statistics. Bureau of Labor Statistics, US Department of Labor, 3 Apr. 2024, www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes514111.htm. Accessed 27 Aug. 2024.