Day in the life
A Day in the Life of a Tool and Die Maker
What tool and die makers actually do from the start of a shift to the end: the tasks, tools, schedule and realities of the job.
Review the drawings for a progressive die repair and check tooling notes. From there, the day usually includes read blueprints, CAD models and specifications, plan machining sequences for tools and dies, and machine components on mills, lathes, grinders and EDMs. Most work full-time on day shifts, with overtime when production tooling breaks down or new programs launch.
Hour by hour: a typical shift
No two days are identical, but this timeline reflects a realistic day for a tool and die maker working full time.
- Review the drawings for a progressive die repair and check tooling notes.
- Program the wire EDM to cut a new punch from hardened steel.
- Surface grind die sections to within 0.0002 inch.
- Fit and assemble the die components and check clearances.
- Try out the die in the press and inspect the first parts.
- Adjust the die and polish a forming surface.
- Document repairs and inspect a mold returned from production.
Where tool and die makers work
Toolmakers work in tool rooms and machine shops in factories and job shops. Shops are cleaner than many production floors but involve machinery, coolant, noise and lifting heavy components.
Hours and schedule
Most work full-time on day shifts, with overtime when production tooling breaks down or new programs launch.
Tasks you’ll do most often
- Read blueprints, CAD models and specifications
- Plan machining sequences for tools and dies
- Machine components on mills, lathes, grinders and EDMs
- Heat treat and finish tool steel
- Fit, assemble and test dies and molds
- Inspect parts to tight tolerances
- Repair and maintain production tooling
Tools you’ll use every day
- Manual and CNC mills and lathes
- Surface and cylindrical grinders
- Wire and sinker EDM machines
- Micrometers, height gauges and gauge blocks
- Coordinate measuring machines (CMM)
- CAD/CAM software
The best and hardest parts of the job
What people like
- Highly respected, skilled trade
- Precision, creative problem solving
- Paid apprenticeships
- Skilled workers are hard to replace
What’s hard
- Employment is declining overall
- Long training period
- Work can be stressful when production is down
- Exposure to noise and coolant
You’ll likely thrive if…
- I love precise, detailed work
- I like machines and metal
- I’m patient with complex problems
- I can read technical drawings
- I want a highly skilled trade
- I take pride in perfect parts
Not sure? Take the free Tool and Die Maker fit quiz or the Career Match Quiz.
Staying safe on the job
- Wear eye protection and keep guards in place
- Lock out presses before working inside dies
- Lift heavy die sections with hoists
- Handle coolant and EDM fluids with proper PPE