Toolmaker

Toolmakers use traditional manual skills, with the very latest technology, in order to develop and maintain tools and machinery used in the manufacturing process.

Also known as

• Craft machinist – tool maker
• Engineering craft machinist – tool maker
• Machine tool maker

Work activities

Toolmakers work to high specifications and quality requirements to produce machine tools, which are used in manufacturing. Toolmakers also make moulds to form shapes, jigs to guide cutters or hold a part in place, and dies, which are shaped blocks that are used to cut, stamp or press materials. At the beginning of their work, toolmakers use technical drawings to learn about the product. They then operate a range of specialist engineering machines, such as lathes and grinding, milling and boring machines.

Toolmakers use hand tools such as files, and small machines like grinding and polishing machines, to smooth and finish a tool. When they are satisfied with the tool, they fit it onto the production machine and supervise a test run. Sometimes toolmakers also make repairs to tools. Most machines are computer numerically controlled (CNC), which involves inputting instructions to a computer which sets, programs and operates the machine. Toolmakers usually wear safety clothing such as overalls, as well as safety glasses and hearing protectors, if necessary. Work normally takes place in factories and workshops.

Personal qualities and skills

As a toolmaker, you need:

• To be very accurate in your work.
• Patience, high concentration levels and a logical mind.
• To be able to read, understand and analyse engineering drawings.
• Good number skills, to make precise measurements and accurate calculations.
• Good hand to eye co-ordination skills for using a wide range of machine tools, hand tools and other equipment.
• To work effectively without supervision, as many toolmakers work alone.
• To be fairly fit and active, as toolmakers spend much of their time on their feet.

Computer numerical controlled (CNC) machines are usually used in this type of work, so having some computer skills is useful.

Pay and opportunities

The pay rates given are approximate. Toolmakers start on around £15,000 per year. Salaries can rise to £33,000 with experience.

Toolmakers may work between 44-46 hours per week, which can include shift work, nights and weekends.

Employers include heavy and light engineering firms involved in manufacturing and plastics processing. Opportunities for toolmakers occur in engineering workshops in towns and cities throughout the UK.

Where are vacancies advertised?

Vacancies are advertised in local/national newspapers, trade industry publications, and on the Government’s Find a Job and Find an Apprenticeship services.

Entry routes and training 

One way to enter this career is by doing a level 3 (advanced) apprenticeship in the role of toolmaker and tool and die maintenance technician. Some people study at college for relevant qualifications, e.g. Edexcel (BTEC) National Diplomas, A levels or City & Guilds qualifications, before looking for work.

Before joining the factory floor and working under the supervision of an experienced toolmaker, you may attend a training centre for a number of weeks. Certificates and diplomas are available in performing engineering operations at levels 1 and 2, and in engineering toolmaking at level 3.

Toolmakers can progress to team leader/supervisor positions after further training and experience.

Qualifications

If you wish to enter this career through an apprenticeship, you will need to be 16 and have GCSEs in English and maths, although you may be able to complete these alongside your qualification.

Adult opportunities

Age limits; it is illegal for any organisation to set age limits for entry to employment, education or training, unless they can show there is a real need to have these limits.

Relevant skills gained as a craftsperson or operative in the engineering industries are an advantage.

Most colleges will consider applications from older candidates who don’t have the usual entry requirements. You should check the admissions policy of individual colleges.

Related careers

• Blacksmith
• Locksmith
• Machine operator
• Maintenance technician
• Metal engraver
• Sheet metal worker/plater
• Welder