How do they match: Tool and Die Makers

  • 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.

  • Conduct test runs with completed tools or dies to ensure that parts meet specifications, making adjustments as necessary.
  • Design jigs, fixtures, and templates for use as work aids in the fabrication of parts or products.
  • File, grind, shim, and adjust different parts to properly fit them together.
  • Fit and assemble parts to make, repair, or modify dies, jigs, gauges, and tools, using machine tools, hand tools, or welders.
  • Lift, position, and secure machined parts on surface plates or worktables, using hoists, vises, v-blocks, or angle plates.
  • Set pyrometer controls of heat-treating furnaces and feed or place parts, tools, or assemblies into furnaces to harden.
  • Set up and operate conventional or computer numerically controlled machine tools such as lathes, milling machines, or grinders to cut, bore, grind, or otherwise shape parts to prescribed dimensions and finishes.
  • Set up and operate drill presses to drill and tap holes in parts for assembly.
  • Smooth and polish flat and contoured surfaces of parts or tools, using scrapers, abrasive stones, files, emery cloths, or power grinders.
  • Verify dimensions, alignments, and clearances of finished parts for conformance to specifications, using measuring instruments such as calipers, gauge blocks, micrometers, or dial indicators.

  • Assemble machine tools, parts, or fixtures.
  • Drill holes in parts, equipment, or materials.
  • Repair parts or assemblies.