📱 Install Findmino as an app for the best experience!

Is Tool and Die Maker a good fit for someone like me?

Back to all jobs
Supply Chain & ProductionDeclining

Tool and Die Maker

Operational-level

Also known as: Bench Tool Maker, Broach Setter, Cam Maker, Carbide Operator

Supply Chain & ProductionBachelor's Degree

Job Description

As a Tool and Die Maker, you precisely cut, shape, and assemble metal parts to create or repair specialized tools like dies, jigs, and gauges. You analyze complex plans, set up and operate various machine tools, and fit components with extreme accuracy. This role demands critical thinking and meticulous attention to detail. You'll often wear safety gear, work around hazardous equipment, and collaborate with teams to plan tasks and goals. It's a hands-on job for someone who enjoys problem-solving.
Tool and Die MakingMachiningPrecision ManufacturingMetalworkingManufacturingMechanical EngineeringIndustrial ProductionSkilled TradeProductionTechnical

A Day in the Life

You arrive at the bustling shop floor in Grand Rapids, Michigan, the familiar scent of coolant and metal in the air. First, you gear up: steel-toed boots, safety glasses, and hearing protection are non-negotiable. You check your work order for today – a new progressive die for a complex automotive component. Opening the CAD files on your workstation, you scrutinize the blueprints for the intricate punch and die sections, mentally planning the machining sequence. Precision is paramount from the very first step.

Skills employers are looking for in 2027

Software and technologies flagged by O*NET as Hot or In-Demand for this role.

Hot technologies
Autodesk AutoCADBentley MicroStationDassault Systemes SolidWorksMicrosoft ExcelMicrosoft Office softwareMicrosoft OutlookMicrosoft PowerPointMicrosoft ProjectMicrosoft WordSAP software

Job Outlook 2025-2035

Projected growth

-9.2%

US average: +3.5%

Job openings

4,300

per year (US)

Jobs today

56,700

in 2025 → 51,500 (2035)

Typical entry education

Postsecondary nondegree award

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employment Projections; O*NET Bright Outlook. Read the BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook

Work Environment

How this work is typically performed, based on O*NET work context data.

Email & digital communication
Moderate
Working in a team
High
Contact with others
High
Freedom to make decisions
High
Time pressure
High
Time spent sitting
Low
Working outdoors
Low
Indoor, climate-controlled
Moderate
Dealing with customers
Low
Level of competition
Moderate

Source: O*NET Work Context (v31.0)

Future Perspective

Declining Job Market

The number of Tool and Die Maker jobs is projected to decline by about 9% through 2035, yet around 4,300 openings are expected each year. The median annual wage is about $64,050. With experience, you can advance to roles such as Quality Control Manager or Tooling Supervisor, building on your specialized skills.

Career ladder

Often before this role

  • Apprentice Machinist
  • Machine Operator
  • Production Assistant

Where it can lead

  • Manufacturing Engineer
  • Quality Control Manager
  • Tooling Supervisor

Impact of AI on this Job

AI and automation will increasingly assist tool and die makers by optimizing design processes, predicting material stress, and automating repetitive tasks. While some manual precision will remain crucial, these professionals will increasingly oversee AI-driven machinery, focusing on complex problem-solving, quality assurance, and adapting to new manufacturing technologies. This shift demands enhanced digital literacy and analytical skills.

Similar Jobs

Grinding, Lapping, Polishing, and Buffing Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic

Operational-level

Electromechanical Equipment Assembler

Operational-level

Food and Tobacco Roasting, Baking, and Drying Machine Operators and Tenders

Operational-level

Tool Grinder, Filers, and Sharpeners

Operational-level

Salary

$64,050

Median annual wage, BLS 2025

Required Education

Bachelor's Degree

Minimum educational requirement for this position

Relevant Studies

Based on job level & field

Machine Tool Technology/Machinist

Bachelor • Social Sciences • 4 years

Electrical Engineering

Vocational • Tech & Engineering • 2 years

Technical Specialist

Vocational • Tech & Engineering • 1 year

Electrician

Vocational • Tech & Engineering • 2 years

Construction Technology

Vocational • Tech & Engineering • 2 years

Technical Product Design

Vocational • Design & Architecture • 2 years

Current Vacancies

IndeedLinkedIn