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OaSIS 2025 Version 1.0
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72101.01 – Tool and die makers

Tool and die makers make, repair and modify custom-made prototype and special tools, dies, jigs, fixtures and gauges using various metals, alloys and plastics which require precise dimensions.

Overview

Example job titles

  • Jewellery die cutter
  • Jig maker
  • Tool and die maker apprentice
  • Tool and die preparer

Core competencies

  • Operation and Control to operate safely and with precision a variety of machines and equipment such as lathes, milling machines, grinders and computer-controlled machinery (CNC)
  • Quality Control Testing to verify the accuracy, functionality and durability of the tools, dies, jigs, fixtures and gauges produced
  • Control of Settings to adjust parameters such as cutting speeds, feeds, depths of cuts, or tool alignments to achieve precise dimensions and specifications in the manufactured components
  • Spatial Visualization to mentally visualize how parts and components will fit together, identify potential obstacles or clearance issues and plan the machining processes accordingly
  • Attention to Detail to ensure every component and feature of worked product meets precise dimensional requirements and tool and die making quality standards
  • Knowledge in Vehicle, Machinery and Equipment Operations to understand operating and performing routine maintenance on lathes, milling machines, grinders and other machines, making minor tooling adjustments for accuracy and following safety protocols

Main duties

This group performs some or all of the following duties:

  • 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.

Additional information

  • The Red Seal endorsement allows for interprovincial mobility.
  • Progression to supervisory positions is possible with experience.

Similar occupations classified elsewhere

Exclusions:

  • Foundry workers (94101)
  • Machining tool operators (94106)
  • Machinists and machining and tooling inspectors (72100)

NOC hierarchy breakdown

NOC version

NOC 2021 Version 1.0

Broad occupational category

7 – Trades, transport and equipment operators and related occupations

TEER

2 – Occupations usually require a college diploma or apprenticeship training of two or more years; or supervisory occupations

Major group

72 – Technical trades and transportation officers and controllers

Sub-major group

721 – Technical industrial trades

Minor group

7210 – Machining, metal forming, shaping and erecting trades

Unit group

72101 – Tool and die makers

Occupational profile

72101.01 – Tool and die makers

O*NET in-it

This page includes information from the O*NET 27.2 Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). Used under the CC BY 4.0 license. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. Employment and Social Development Canada has modified all or some of this information. USDOL/ETA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications.