Toolmaker

Toolmakers work from engineering drawings to make precision tools, special guides and holding devices for use in manufacturing. These include jigs and fixtures that hold metal, and complex moulds for injection moulding machines that produce plastic products. To make these tools, toolmakers mark out the design on the raw material, then cut it to size and shape using lathes and drills, precision cutting machines and CNC (computer numerically controlled) machines. They frequently work with computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing software (CAD/CAM). They are among the most highly skilled workers in manufacturing.

Their working week is usually around 39 hours, from Monday to Friday. In large companies with round-the-clock production shifts, overtime and weekend working may be required. Toolmakers usually work in toolrooms and normally stand whilst working. They may wear protective equipment such as overalls, boots, goggles and ear protectors when carrying out particular tasks. Toolrooms are kept clean, usually with a controlled temperature.

Salaries range from around £16,500 to over £35,000 a year.

A toolmaker should:

• be able to read and understand engineering drawings
• have maths and ICT skills
• be able to use precise measuring instruments
• know the strengths and characteristics of metals and other materials
• know what different cutting tools can do when working with a variety of materials
• have normal unaided eyesight.

Toolmakers may be employed by manufacturing companies with their own toolmaking departments or by specialist workshops making components to order for other companies. Employers are located in most parts of the country, mainly in large cities and particularly in the West Midlands, the North West, London and the South East.

Most people start as an engineering apprentice. The usual way to become a toolmaker is by completing an Advanced Apprenticeship in engineering, either as an apprentice machinist or multiskilled apprentice. Employers generally ask for GCSEs (A*-C), particularly in English, maths, science and technology, or equivalent qualifications. Many companies also use aptitude tests when selecting apprentices. The Diploma in engineering may be relevant for this area of work.

Many companies aim to train multiskilled craftspeople rather than specialists, so apprentices may learn fabrication skills (welding and metalwork) as well as machining, fitting and CAD/CAM. Only trainees with a high level of ability are likely to be encouraged to specialise in toolmaking.

An experienced toolmaker may be promoted to supervisor or inspector, overseeing a toolroom or workshop. With further qualifications, some craftspeople gain promotion to technician-level posts and can also progress to registration with the Engineering Council as an Engineering Technician (EngTech).

Further details