I am a
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Toolmaker

Toolmakers make the precision tools that are used in manufacturing to create products and parts.

Average annual salary

£15,000 to £33,000

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Entry Requirements:

You can get into this job through:

  • a college course
  • an apprenticeship
  • working towards this role

Entry requirements:

College

You could start by doing a college course to learn some of the skills you'll need in this job. Courses include:

  • Level 1 Certificate in Engineering Technologies
  • Level 2 Certificate in Engineering Operations
  • Level 2 Diploma in Engineering

Entry requirements:

  • 2 or fewer GCSEs at grades 3 to 1 (D to G), or equivalent, for a level 1 course
  • 2 or more GCSEs at grades 9 to 3 (A* to D), or equivalent, for a level 2 course

Apprenticeship

You can complete an engineering operative intermediate apprenticeship or an engineering technician advanced apprenticeship.

Entry requirements:

  • some GCSEs, usually including English and maths, or equivalent, for an intermediate apprenticeship
  • 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship

Work

You can start as an engineering operative in a workshop or factory and do further training on the job to specialise in toolmaking.

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Required Skills:

Digital skills : to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

Skills:
  • the ability to use, repair and maintain machines and tools
  • knowledge of engineering science and technology
  • design skills and knowledge
  • knowledge of maths
  • to be thorough and pay attention to detail
  • the ability to use your initiative
  • the ability to work well with your hands
  • the ability to analyse quality or performance
  • the ability to work well with others
  • analytical thinking skills
  • ambition and a desire to succeed
  • to be flexible and open to change
  • thinking and reasoning skills
  • excellent verbal communication skills
  • knowledge of manufacturing production and processes
  • physical skills like movement, coordination, dexterity and grace
  • the ability to operate and control equipment
  • observation and recording skills
  • concentration skills
  • the ability to think clearly using logic and reasoning
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What you'll do:

Toolmakers make the precision tools that are used in manufacturing to create products and parts.

On a typical day you could:

  • work with 2D and 3D computer-aided design and manufacturing software (CAD/CAM)
  • mark out tool designs on a 'stock' or casting following engineering plans
  • cut and shape tools with lathes, presses and cutting machines
  • enter settings into computer controlled machines
  • check dimensions with measuring instruments like micrometers
  • carry out basic machine maintenance

Location : You could work in a factory or in a workshop.
Environment : Your working environment may be noisy.
Uniform : You may need to wear safety clothing and use safety equipment.

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Salary:

Starter : £15,000
Experienced : £33,000

These figures are a guide

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Working hours:

44 - 46 hours a week

Working Pattern is between 8am and 6pm on shifts

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Career Path:

You could become a workshop supervisor, train to carry out machine maintenance or move into quality control.

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