Tool and Die Makers
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.
Also called: Bench Tool Maker, Broach Setter, Cam Maker, Carbide Operator, Carbide Tool Maker, Cutlery and Tools Saw Maker
Median pay
$64,050
per year, U.S.
Pay range (10th–90th)
$44,680 – $92,680
People employed
56,930
Holland code
RCI
Realistic · Conventional · Investigative
Updated October 2026 · Data: O*NET 31.0 and BLS OEWS May 2025 · How we match careers
Is this career right for you?
These are the things that stand out in this job compared with other U.S. jobs (O*NET 31.0 work context). Answer honestly.
- 1.Would you rather not deal with customers or the public?
- 2.Do you want a lot of freedom to make your own decisions?
- 3.Do you want the same hours every week?
- 4.Do you prefer doing your own work rather than directing others?
- 5.Are you OK being on your feet and moving most of the day?
- 6.Are you OK with physical risk, such as hazardous equipment or conditions, with proper training?
- 7.Do you work well under tight deadlines?
The hard parts
- Tight deadlines are common
- Long hours on your feet
- Mistakes can have serious consequences
Tool and Die Makers pay by state
Annual median pay by state (45 states with published data). Source: BLS OEWS May 2025.
What tool and die makers do
- 01Verify dimensions, alignments, and clearances of finished parts for conformance to specifications, using measuring instruments such as calipers, gauge blocks, micrometers, or dial indicators.
- 02Set up and operate conventional or computer numerically controlled machine tools such as lathes, milling machines, or grinders to cut, bore, grind, or otherwise shape parts to prescribed dimensions and finishes.
- 03Visualize and compute dimensions, sizes, shapes, and tolerances of assemblies, based on specifications.
- 04Study blueprints, sketches, models, or specifications to plan sequences of operations for fabricating tools, dies, or assemblies.
- 05Fit and assemble parts to make, repair, or modify dies, jigs, gauges, and tools, using machine tools, hand tools, or welders.
- 06Inspect finished dies for smoothness, contour conformity, and defects.
Skills that matter most
- Monitoring
- Critical Thinking
- Active Learning
- Active Listening
- Reading Comprehension
- Speaking
Knowledge
- Mechanical
- Mathematics
- Production and Processing
- Design
- English Language
Work styles that stand out
- Dependability
- Attention to Detail
- Cautiousness
Education and first steps
Share of workers by required education, as reported to O*NET.
How people get started
- Usually needs vocational training or an associate degree (O*NET Job Zone 3).
- Related work experience: over 4 years, up to and including 6 years.
- On-the-job training: over 1 year, up to and including 2 years.
Most common answers from O*NET 31.0 Education, Training and Experience.
Interest fit (Holland code)
O*NET occupational interest scores, scale 1–7. Take the Free Career Test to compare with your own.
Career changes
Change from tool and die makers
- Industrial Machinery Mechanics82% · +1%
- Maintenance Workers, Machinery75% · −5%
- Automotive Engineering Technicians74% · group pay
- Control and Valve Installers and Repairers, Except Mechanical Door73% · +16%
- Electro-Mechanical and Mechatronics Technologists and Technicians73% · +15%
Change into tool and die makers
Jobs whose skills carry over best (skill match, their median pay).
- Patternmakers, Wood80% · $49,630
- Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators78% · $50,690
- Industrial Machinery Mechanics78% · $64,520
- Etchers and Engravers77% · $43,310
- Model Makers, Wood76% · $56,550
Majors that lead here
- Tool and Die Technology/Technician
From the NCES CIP 2020 to SOC 2018 crosswalk.