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Tool & Die Makers

Also called: Tool and Die Maker, Toolmaker, Jig and Fixture Builder, Jig and Fixture Repairer

What they do:
Analyze specifications, lay out metal stock, set up and operate machine tools, and fit and assemble parts to make and repair dies, cutting tools, jigs, fixtures, gauges, and machinists' hand tools.
On the job, you would:
  • Verify dimensions, alignments, and clearances of finished parts for conformance to specifications, using measuring instruments such as calipers, gauge blocks, micrometers, and dial indicators.
  • Study blueprints, sketches, models, or specifications to plan sequences of operations for fabricating tools, dies, or assemblies.
  • Set up and operate conventional or computer numerically controlled machine tools such as lathes, milling machines, and grinders to cut, bore, grind, or otherwise shape parts to prescribed dimensions and finishes.

Knowledge

Engineering and Technology
  • mechanical
  • design
Math and Science
  • arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, or statistics
Manufactured or Agricultural Goods
  • manufacture and distribution of products
Arts and Humanities
  • English language

Skills

Basic Skills
  • thinking about the pros and cons of different ways to solve a problem
  • listening to others, not interrupting, and asking good questions
Problem Solving
  • noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it

Abilities

Hand and Finger Use
  • put together small parts with your fingers
  • hold or move items with your hands
Verbal
  • communicate by speaking
  • listen and understand what people say
Ideas and Logic
  • notice when problems happen
  • group things in different ways

Personality

People interested in this work like activities that include
practical, hands-on problems and solutions.
They do well at jobs that need:
  • Attention to Detail
  • Dependability
  • Integrity
  • Analytical Thinking
  • Initiative
  • Cooperation

Technology

You might use software like this on the job:

Computer aided design CAD software
  • Autodesk AutoCAD software
  • Vero International VISI-Mold
Computer aided manufacturing CAM software
  • CNC Mastercam
  • OPEN MIND Technologies hyperMILL
Word processing software
  • Microsoft Word

Education

Education: (rated 3 of 5)
some college or
associate's degree
usually needed

Get started on your career:

Find Training Find Certifications Registered Apprenticeship

Job Outlook

Below Average Outlook
New job opportunities are less likely in the future.
Salary
$46,650
per year, on average
Check out my state Local Salary Info Find Jobs

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See more details at O*NET OnLine about tool and die makers.