Overview
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. They are employed primarily in manufacturing industries such as automobile, aircraft, metal fabrication, electrical machinery and plastics, and in tool and die, mould making and machine shops. This unit group also includes metal patternmakers and metal mould makers. Apprentices are also included in this unit group.
This group performs some or all of the following duties:
Tool and die makers
Read and interpret engineering drawings and specifications of tools, dies, prototypes or models
Prepare templates and sketches, and determine work processes
Compute dimensions and 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 conventional and computer numerically controlled (CNC) machine tools to cut, turn, mill, plane, drill, bore, grind or otherwise shape workpiece to prescribed dimensions and finish
Verify machined parts for conformance to specifications using precision measuring instruments such as verniers, callipers, micrometers, coordinate measuring machines (CMM) and electronic measuring devices
Fit and assemble or disassemble parts using hand tools
Test completed tools, dies, jigs or fixtures for proper operation
May program CNC machine tools.
Metal mould makers and patternmakers
Machine, fit and assemble castings and other parts to make precision models of required shape such as metal patterns, core boxes and match plates
Machine, fit and assemble parts to make metal moulds and cores for plastic injection moulding, or other production processes
Lay out, shape and assemble patterns of metal, wood, plastic and other materials from blueprints, models or templates
May program CNC machine tools.
Employment prospects
Annual salary
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$76,270
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Job openings
Use this interactive map to explore job openings in different regions across B.C.
British Columbia
66expected job openings (5-year forecast)
Education and training
Employment requirements
Completion of secondary school is usually required.
Completion of a four- or five-year tool and die making apprenticeship program or a66666666 combination of over five years of work experience in the trade and some high school, college or industry courses in tool and die making is usually required to be eligible for tool and die trade certification.
Tool and die maker trade certification is available, but voluntary, in Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, New Brunswick, Quebec, Ontario, Manitoba and British Columbia.
Additional information
The Red Seal endorsement allows for interprovincial mobility.
Progression to supervisory positions is possible with experience.
Certification requirements
Optional: The following certifications are optional to practice as Tool and die makers in B.C.
- Skilled Trades Certification - Tool and Die Makers
- Tool and Die Maker Red Seal Certification
Skilled Trades Certification - Tool and Die Makers
Confirm with the certifying body that your intended program qualifies you for this certification.
To work as a tool and die maker in B.C., you may need a SkilledTradesBC certification demonstrating that you have completed the necessary technical training and work experience part of your apprenticeship program.
Tool and Die Maker Red Seal Certification
Confirm with the certifying body that your intended program qualifies you for this certification.
This career is eligible for Red Seal endorsement. When all levels of your trades training are complete, you can write an Interprovincial Red Seal exam. A successful result demonstrates you have met the national standard for your trade in Canada will allow you to practice your trade outside of B.C. in provinces and territories covered by the Red Seal certification.
Post-secondary programs in B.C.
No programs available in B.C.
There are currently no programs offered at public post-secondary institutions in B.C. that will qualify you for this career. Please see the SkilledTradesBC website for other options.