TOOLS & TECHNOLOGY
Tools used with judgment
CNC and manual mills and lathes, surface grinders and jig grinders, wire and sinker EDM machines, presses, spotting equipment and rigging, micrometers, gauges and CMMs.
← Tool and Die Maker overview
01 · WHAT · PRODUCE PATH
What is the Tool and Die Maker trade?
A Tool and Die Maker designs, creates, repairs and tests prototypes and production tools such as dies, cutting tools, jigs, fixtures, gauges and specialty tools using various metals, alloys and plastics. Specifically, a Tool and Die Maker:
THE CORE OF THE WORK
Inspect. Diagnose. Repair. Improve.
A Tool and Die Maker designs, creates, repairs and tests prototypes and production tools such as dies, cutting tools, jigs, fixtures, gauges and specialty tools using various metals, alloys and plastics. Specifically, a Tool and Die Maker:
Not every Tool and Die Maker performs every task. The mix changes with the employer, sector, workplace, equipment and level of responsibility.
- reads and interprets complex engineering drawings, tooling drawings and work-process documentation
- designs, builds, changes and repairs dies, forms, cutting tools, gauges, jigs and fixtures for the manufacturing sector
- builds precision dies, tools and prototypes using conventional and numerically controlled metal-cutting and forming machines and equipment including saws, drills, grinders, lathes, mills, die presses and electrical discharge machines
- performs work-in-process measuring and checking using specialized and precision tools and equipment
WORKING CONDITIONS
Understand the environment
heavy tooling and stored mechanical energy; sharp tools, chips and moving machinery; tight tolerances and costly materials; oils, coolants and grinding dust; launch, tryout and emergency-repair deadlines.
SAFETY FIRST
Learn the hazards before the task
Training, supervision, safe procedures, appropriate PPE and stopping when conditions are uncertain are essential. Requirements vary by workplace and assignment.
STRENGTHS THAT GROW
Skill develops through practice.
mechanical systems thinkingprecisiondrawing interpretationtroubleshootingpatient craftsmanship
ADVANCED SPECIALIZATIONS
One trade can lead to very different work.
These are advanced work directions within or adjacent to Tool and Die Maker, not promises of separate credentials or pay. Requirements vary by employer, equipment, experience and any additional training or authorization.
Stamping dies
Build progressive, transfer, draw and trim dies for sheet-metal production.
Jigs and fixtures
Create workholding and guidance systems that make operations repeatable.
Prototype tooling
Develop one-off tools and parts while designs and processes are still evolving.
Die tryout and development
Run tools in presses and correct forming, cutting, feed and alignment problems.
Aerospace and high-precision tooling
Meet demanding material, inspection and documentation requirements.
Repair and preventive maintenance
Restore worn or damaged production tools and reduce unplanned downtime.
Toolroom leadership
Advance into estimating, design liaison, project management, supervision or ownership.
EVIDENCE BASE
Sources & verification
Regulated, numerical and time-sensitive claims link to the authority used. Accessed and reviewed August 25, 2026.
Skilled Trades Ontario — Tool and Die Maker ↗Official scope, duties, training and certificationGovernment of Canada Job Bank — Ontario wages ↗Ontario low, median and high employee wage benchmarkSkilled Trades Ontario — Start an apprenticeship ↗Eligibility, sponsors and registrationOntario — OYAP ↗High-school apprenticeship pathway
Why might this career fit me?