Shigoto Zukan
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How to become tool and die makerseducation, training, experience and the steps to enter

United States Manufacturing & Repair Confidence ★★★★★

Median annual pay
$64,050
25th–75th pct. $51,490–$78,770
Top pay (est.)
$120,500
Top 10% $92,680
Pay in 5 years
$72,200est.
2031
Pay in 10 years
$81,300est.
$69,900–$94,400
Outlook score
39/100
★★☆☆☆ Below average
AI replacement risk
40%
Low
Job growth (10 yr)
−9.2%
4,300 openings / yr

How to become tool and die makers

Typical education
Postsecondary nondegree award
BLS
Related experience
None
On-the-job training
Long-term on-the-job training

A step-by-step guide for this occupation is being prepared. The education, training and experience data above show the typical path.

Skills, education and requirements for Tool and Die Makers

Key skills

Quality Control Analysis
3.8
Operations Analysis
3.1
Reading Comprehension
3.1
Operation and Control
3.1
Critical Thinking
3.1
Active Learning
3.1
Equipment Selection
3.0
Complex Problem Solving
3.0

O*NET skill level ratings (0–7).

Key knowledge areas

Mechanical
5.2
Mathematics
3.8
Design
3.8
Engineering and Technology
3.5
Production and Processing
3.4
Education and Training
3.1
Computers and Electronics
3.0
English Language
2.9

What the work involves

Handling and Moving ObjectsControlling Machines and ProcessesThinking CreativelyRepairing and Maintaining Mechanical EquipmentOrganizing, Planning, and Prioritizing WorkMaking Decisions and Solving ProblemsDrafting, Laying Out, and Specifying Technical Devices, Parts, and EquipmentUpdating and Using Relevant Knowledge

Important abilities

Category FlexibilityVisualizationControl PrecisionOral ComprehensionNear VisionInformation Ordering

Education of workers

Post-secondary certificate
41%
High school diploma
40%
Associate's degree
10%
Less than high school
10%

Training before entry

6–12 months
24%
1–3 months
23%
3–6 months
18%
1–2 years
14%
Up to 1 month
11%
2–4 years
5%
4–10 years
5%

Related work experience

4–6 years
25%
6–12 months
21%
1–2 years
15%
Over 10 years
12%
6–8 years
10%
None
7%
3–6 months
5%
2–4 years
5%

Job Zone 3 — medium preparation needed (O*NET)

Difficulty of entry: ★★★☆☆ Moderate (from education, training, experience and Job Zone)

Career path and how to earn more as tool and die makers

Career-path guidance is being prepared. Pay by percentile is shown in the Pay section.

Pay and employment figures are national statistics. Projected pay, outlook scores and AI replacement risk are estimates from the Shigoto Zukan model, not guarantees. To request a correction, use the contact form. How to read the data
Sources: BLS OEWS May 2025; BLS Employment Projections 2025–35; O*NET 31.0 Database by USDOL/ETA (CC BY 4.0), modified by Shigoto Zukan. Pay ranges, projections and scores are Shigoto Zukan estimates.