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JOB DESCRIPTIONS AND INDUSTRY OVERVIEWS

Manufacturing tool maker

gradireland editorial team
25 Jan 2023, 13:36

There are several names for the modern manufacturing tool maker but they all perform a crucial role in the
process of making things and are among the most highly skilled people on the factory floor.

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Alternative job titles for this role

Factory machine operator

Machinist

Tool and die maker

Production operative

Alternative job titles for this role

Tool and die maker

Die maker

Manufacturing or process toolfitter (or tool fitter)

Mould maker

Precision engineer

Introduction

Toolmakers cut precision tools like jigs, dies and moulds, which are then used in the manufacturing process to make products. For
example, the parts used on a car assembly line or the part of a machine that fills a chocolate shell or that seals a package. Toolmakers
make precision tools, special guides and holding devices. They are used to cut, shape and form metal and other materials used in the
manufacture of a range of products. Toolmakers use a wide variety of common metals, alloys, plastics, ceramics and composite
materials and are knowledgeable in machining operations, mathematics and blueprint reading. Much of the work is done on computer
numerically controlled (CNC) machines, so the modern toolmaker must have a solid background in a variety of technical and IT
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What the job involves

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Work with 2D and 3D computer aided design and manufacturing software (CAD/CAM)
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Mark out the tool design on the 'stock' or casting following engineering drawings
 Cut and shape the part using a combination of lathes, presses, grinders and cutting machines, which are frequently computer
controlled

Check the tool's dimensions with precision measuring instruments such as micrometres, gauges and co-ordinate measuring
machines (CMM)

Carry out basic machine maintenance

How your career can develop

Many manufacturers will take on Leaving Cert school leavers and those holding a certificate and a diploma/PLC in a related course as
apprentices and allow time for study. Some will cater for those wishing to take their education further and do a third level course in, for
instance, an engineering subject.

Skills

Interest in engineering

Have good hand to eye co-ordination

An eye for detail

Accuracy

Ability to use precise measuring instruments

Good verbal and written communications skills

Be able to work on their own and as part of a team

Aptitude for maths

Good IT skills

Typical employers

Food and drink companies

Engineered product makers

Consumer goods manufacturers

Printing and packaging companies

Electronic goods assembly companies

Aviation industry

Typical salary

Graduate/Starting €30,000

Senior/Potential €45,000+ depending on experience

Typical qualifications

Many careers in tool manufacturing industry are available through apprenticeships, leaving certificate and a diploma/PLC in a related
course.

Further information

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Guide to apprenticeships in Ireland: www.spunout.ie
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Engineers Ireland: www.engineersireland.ie

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 gradireland editorial advice
This describes editorially independent and impartial content, which has been written and edited by the gradireland content team. Any external
contributors featuring in the article are in line with our non-advertorial policy, by which we mean that we do not promote one organisation over
another.

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