Tool and die makers make, repair and modify custom-made, prototype or special tools, dies, jigs, fixtures and gauges using various metals, alloys and plastics which require precise dimensions.

Tool and die makers perform some or all of the following duties:

Read and interpret engineering drawings/specifications of tools, dies, prototypes, and models;

Prepare templates/sketches and determine work processes;

Compute dimensions/tolerances and set up machine tools;

Position, secure, measure, and work metal stock or castings to lay out for machining;

Set up, operate, and maintain a variety of machine tools to cut, turn, mill, plane, bore, grind, and otherwise shape work pieces to prescribed dimensions;

Set up, program, and operate numerically controlled (NC) and computer numerically controlled (CNC) machines;

Machine, fit, and assemble castings/other parts to make metal patterns, core boxes, and match plates;

Machine, fit, and assemble parts to make metal moulds for plastic injection moulding or other production processes;

Test completed tools, dies, jigs or fixtures for proper operation;

Make, repair, and modify custom-made, prototype or special tools, dies, jigs, fixtures, and gauges using various metals, alloys, and plastics that require precise dimensions.

Die Finisher
Die Maker
Jig Maker
Metal Mould Maker
Metal Patternmaker
Mould Maker - Plastics Processing
Tool and Die Maker
Tool Maker