Toolmaker
Hand-build the precision tools, jigs and moulds that production machines use.
This UK toolmaker career guide covers what the role involves day to day, typical salary at each stage, the usual entry route, the skills employers expect, and related careers worth comparing.
Quick facts
- Starting salary
- £24,000 - £32,000
- Mid-career salary
- £36,000 - £48,000
- Senior salary
- £52,000 - £68,000
- Work environment
- On-site, hands-on, often outdoors
- Time to entry
- 2 - 4 years (apprenticeship)
- Degree required
- Not required - apprenticeship route
- Category
- Skilled Trades
What a Toolmaker does
Hand-build the precision tools, jigs and moulds that production machines use.
- Injection Mould Tooling - Build and repair plastic injection moulds.
- Press Tooling - Build progression and stamping tools.
- Jigs and Fixtures - Build production jigs for aerospace and auto.
- EDM Specialist - Wire and spark erosion specialist work.
How to become a Toolmaker
- Look up Toolmaker roles on LinkedIn or Indeed and read 5 real job ads
- Talk to someone already working as a Toolmaker - even a 15-minute call helps
- Find one beginner course or qualification used by people in this role
- Build one small piece of evidence you've explored this (project, shadowing, short course)
- Apply to one entry-level role or related opportunity within the next month
Key skills
- Precision measurement
- Lathe / mill
- Reading drawings
- Hand finishing
- Patience