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For Educators: Military Resources

Tool and Die Makers

Median Salary
61,490
Job Outlook
0%

Overview

What are the responsibilities of this role?

Analyze specifications, lay out metal stock, set up and operate machine tools, and fit and assemble parts to make and repair dies, cutting tools, jigs, fixtures, gauges, and machinists' hand tools.

What sectors do they work in?

Private for profit

91%

Self-employed

7%

Private not for profit

1%

Federal Government

1%

State and local government

0%

What is the job outlook?

Overall employment of machinists and tool and die makers is projected to decline 0 percent from 2023 to 2033. Despite declining employment, about 35,400 openings for machinists and tool and die makers are projected each year, on average, over the decade. All of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to other occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.

Compensation

What is the typical salary range?

$31,140

10%

$61,490

Median

$81,870

90%

How does location impact how much salary?

Education

What level of education do professionals in this role have?

Education Level

  • Post-secondary certificate

    40%

  • High school

    39%

  • Associate's degree

    9%

  • Less than high school

    9%

Which college majors best prepare you for this role?

  • Tool and Die Technology/Technician

Skills and Interest

Which skill sets are the most valuable to possess?

Skills

  • Technology Design and Control

    High

  • Equipment Operation and Maintenance

    High

  • Verbal Skills

    Low

  • Leadership

    Low

  • Math and Science Skills

    Mid

  • Critical Thinking and Problem Solving

    Low

What knowledge should you bring to the table?

  • Mechanical
  • Mathematics
  • Design
  • Engineering and Technology
  • Production and Processing

What challenges will you likely face in the workplace?

Workplace

  • Time Pressure

    High

  • Physical Activity

    High

  • Exposure to Job Hazards

    Mid

  • Responsibility

    Mid

  • Decision Making

    Mid

  • Repetitiveness

    Low

  • Level Of Competition

    Low

What personality traits help people thrive in this role?

Realistic

You love hands-on work and solving practical problems — like fixing things and building stuff.

Conventional

You like structure, staying organized, and working with systems to get things done efficiently.

RIASEC represents six broad interest areas—Realistic, Investigative, Artistic, Social, Enterprising, and Conventional—helping individuals identify careers that match their skills and preferences.

Take the RIASEC Test

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Data supplied by Bureau of Labor Statistics, National Center of Education Statistics, Defense Manpower Data Center (View our update schedule). Contact any business, college or military service branch to answer additional questions.