Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for Tool & Die Technician

🎯 Role Definition

A Tool & Die Technician is a highly skilled artisan and technician who serves as the foundation of the manufacturing floor. This role involves the meticulous construction, repair, and maintenance of complex tooling, dies, jigs, and fixtures used in metal forming, stamping, and injection molding processes. Working from detailed blueprints and CAD models, these professionals utilize a combination of conventional and computer-numerically-controlled (CNC) machines to shape metal with extreme precision. The quality of their work directly impacts production efficiency, part quality, and operational uptime, making them an indispensable asset to any production-focused organization. It is a hands-on role that demands a unique blend of mechanical aptitude, problem-solving prowess, and an unwavering attention to detail.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

Machinist or CNC Operator
Manufacturing Technician
Graduate of a Technical/Trade School Program or Apprenticeship

Advancement To:

Lead Tool & Die Technician / Tool Room Lead
Tool Room Supervisor or Manager
Manufacturing Engineer or Process Engineer

Lateral Moves:

CNC Programmer
Quality Assurance Inspector / CMM Programmer
Industrial Maintenance Mechanic

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

Construct, fit, and assemble new, intricate tools and dies, including progressive, transfer, and single-hit dies, according to complex engineering drawings and specifications.
Diagnose, troubleshoot, and perform complex repairs on production tooling to resolve part-quality issues and minimize press downtime.
Set up and operate a wide range of toolroom machinery, such as manual and CNC lathes, milling machines, surface grinders, and jig grinders, to precise tolerances.
Read and interpret advanced blueprints, technical drawings, schematics, and CAD models to understand tooling requirements and assembly procedures.
Perform precision bench work, including stoning, polishing, spotting, and fitting of die components to ensure proper function and clearance.
Conduct comprehensive analysis and troubleshooting of tooling issues directly on the production floor, working alongside press operators to identify root causes.
Use a full range of precision measuring and inspection instruments (micrometers, calipers, indicators, height gauges, optical comparators) to verify component dimensions and final part quality.
Execute preventative maintenance schedules on all dies and tooling to enhance longevity, prevent failures, and maintain consistent performance.
Perform TIG, MIG, and other welding processes to repair or modify die sections and components, often followed by re-machining to original specifications.
Select appropriate tool steel materials and oversee or perform heat-treating processes to achieve desired hardness and durability for tooling components.
Participate actively in the tryout and first-piece approval process for new and repaired tooling, making necessary adjustments to achieve a conforming part.
Machine and fabricate replacement components for tooling, jigs, and fixtures with a high degree of accuracy and urgency.
Program, set up, and operate Wire EDM and Sinker EDM machines to create complex tool shapes and features.

Secondary Functions

Collaborate closely with Engineering and Quality departments to provide input on tool design for improved manufacturability, durability, and maintenance.
Maintain accurate, detailed records of all maintenance, repairs, modifications, and setup parameters for each tool in the system.
Contribute to the organization's continuous improvement and lean manufacturing initiatives by identifying opportunities for waste reduction and efficiency gains in tooling.
Provide technical mentorship, guidance, and training to apprentices and less experienced technicians to foster skill development within the team.
Ensure all work is performed in strict adherence to company safety protocols, lockout/tagout procedures, and general shop safety standards.
Manage and maintain an organized inventory of spare tooling components, hardware, and shop supplies, initiating purchase requests as needed.
Assist in developing standardized work procedures and best practices for die maintenance, repair, and changeovers.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

Blueprint Reading & GD&T: Deep proficiency in reading and interpreting complex engineering drawings, including a strong understanding of Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T).
Toolroom Machinery Operation: Expert-level ability to set up and operate conventional mills, lathes, surface grinders, and related toolroom equipment.
CNC Machining & Programming: Experience with the setup and operation of CNC mills and lathes; basic G-code/M-code programming and editing skills are highly valued.
Precision Measurement: Mastery of precision measuring instruments such as micrometers, vernier calipers, depth gauges, and indicators to check work to tight tolerances.
Die Troubleshooting: Advanced diagnostic skills to identify the root cause of stamping defects (e.g., burrs, splits, wrinkles) and determine the correct tooling adjustments.
Welding & Fabrication: Proficiency in TIG and/or MIG welding for the purpose of tool repair and modification.
CAD/CAM Software: Familiarity with viewing and interrogating 3D models using software like SolidWorks, AutoCAD, or Inventor.
Metal Stamping Processes: Strong knowledge of the mechanics of metal forming, including progressive, transfer, and deep draw stamping.

Soft Skills

Problem-Solving: A methodical and analytical approach to troubleshooting complex mechanical issues under pressure.
Attention to Detail: An exceptional eye for precision and accuracy, ensuring that every component meets exacting standards.
Time Management: The ability to prioritize tasks effectively, manage urgent production needs, and work independently with minimal supervision.
Teamwork & Communication: Strong collaborative skills to work effectively with engineers, press operators, and management to achieve common goals.
Adaptability: Flexibility to respond to changing priorities and unexpected production challenges in a fast-paced environment.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

High School Diploma or GED.
Certificate from a recognized Tool & Die or Machinist trade school program.

Preferred Education:

Journeyman Tool & Die Maker certification.
Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) Degree in a relevant technical field.

Relevant Fields of Study:

Machine Tool Technology
Manufacturing Engineering Technology
Industrial Mechanics & Maintenance Technology

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range: 4-8 years of hands-on experience in a tool and die environment.

Preferred: A documented apprenticeship in Tool & Die Making is highly desirable. Experience specifically with Class-A progressive and/or transfer dies in a high-volume automotive or appliance manufacturing setting is a significant asset.