Toolmaker Jobs in the United States

Toolmaker Jobs Overview

People rely on screwdrivers, pliers, hammers, and other hand tools for a variety of trades and personal use. Toolmaker jobs are essential to making sure your plumber can fix your leaky pipes, carpenters can frame homes, and you can hang pictures, install shelving, and put together furniture. From small wrenches to machine parts, toolmakers design and produce tools using computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) software. Once the design is finished, toolmakers set up and operate computer numerical control (CNC) machines during the manufacturing process.

At Monster, you can find plenty of toolmaker jobs for individuals with mechanical skills and a good eye for measurement. Read below to find out how to apply and which credentials you’ll need.

Other production jobs worth checking out include:

• CNC machinist jobs
• factory jobs
• welding jobs

Toolmaker Training and Skills

Toolmakers typically need a high school diploma and hands-on training. On-the-job training can last for one year or longer under the supervision of an experienced toolmaker. Some toolmakers complete two-year postsecondary programs at technical schools or community colleges before applying to jobs. Coursework in this field typically includes reading and understanding blueprints, using welding and cutting tools, and running CNC machines.

While not required, completing a machinist certificate program can open the door to more job opportunities. The Manufacturing Institute offers its Skills Certifications program to toolmakers and other machinists.

To be successful as a toolmaker, it helps to have the following qualities and skills:

• an understanding of blueprints and other instructions relevant to toolmaking.
• good concentration and accuracy when taking exact measurements.
• proficiency with CAD and CAM software.
• exceptional math skills.
• excellent mechanical and machine-operating skills.
• the ability to perform repetitive movements and stand for lengthy periods.

Update Your Toolmaker Resume

Got skills you’d like to market to potential employers? Your resume gives you the opportunity to show hiring managers how they can benefit from hiring you. If you haven’t already written a resume, follow the clear and easy steps laid out in Monster’s resume writing tips. We also have tons of resume samples that can help you format and organize a resume that is concise and easy to read.

Never send in a resume without a well-written cover letter. Even if it’s not required, employers tend to take notice of applicants who submit cover letters. Make sure yours successfully pitches your skills and enthusiasm for toolmaking. Use our writing tips and cover letter examples to learn how to create an attention-grabbing cover letter.

Interviewing for Toolmaker Jobs

If you have an interview coming up, congratulations! Now is your chance to make a great first impression. Learn how to prepare ahead of time with Monster’s best interview tips. As a toolmaker, you may encounter questions such as, “What tools or fixtures have you made?” and, “How proficient are you at using machines and hand tools?” Learn how to answer industry-specific questions by reading our list of interview questions for manufacturing workers.

In additional to questions about toolmaking, your interviewer may ask general and behavioral questions that apply to all fields such as, “Why do you want to work here?” Practicing your answers to these common interview questions is a great way to boost your chances of getting hired.

How Much Do Toolmaker Jobs Pay?

Want to make sure you’re getting paid what you’re worth as a toolmaker? According to Monster’s salary data, toolmakers in the U.S. earn between $17.87 and $28.30 per hour. But the median hourly wage is $23.81. Your pay will depend on how experienced you are in toolmaking, as well as your location.

Get a more accurate estimate by searching your job title and location on Monster’s Salary Calculator. You can also get a glimpse of potential next career steps such as CNC machinist, machine tool engineer, and CNC and machining manufacturing engineer.

Want to Learn More About a Company You’re Interested In?

Whether you’re applying for a toolmaker job for the first time or already have a job offer, it’s critical to make sure an employer is the right fit. Find out more about a potential employer by looking them up on Monster’s company profiles.

This tool will allow you to see:

• company locations and headquarters.
• number of employees working for a company.
• job postings and employee benefits.
• photos and videos.
• mission statements.

Get the Tools for Success at Monster

Now that you know how to apply for toolmaker jobs, what are you waiting for? Set up your profile with Monster today for free and start clicking on job postings in your field. We’ll also match your resume with positions that interest you and offer you free and custom job alerts so you always have a chance to be an early applicant.