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The work

Toolmakers, also known as tool fitters, make tools used by engineering craftspeople and operatives. These include:

jigs
gauges
dies
moulds.

Working from engineering drawings, toolmakers mark out the design on the raw material (usually metal or wood), then cut it to size and shape using a combination of lathes, milling machines, grinders and precision cutting machines. Some toolmakers specialise as machinist toolmakers, others as toolmaker fitters, and some as tool repairers.

A high proportion of machine tools used in industry are now computer numerically controlled (CNC). This means a computer application runs them and the operator has to be qualified to program and operate the machine. Toolmakers work very closely with CNC operators, and many become machine setters. The main objective of a machine setter is to set, program and maintain production on CNC machines.

For information about CNC roles see the profile for CNC Machinist.

Hours and Environment

Toolmakers normally work a 39-hour week, Monday to Friday. In large companies they may have to work shifts, including nights, often on a revolving basis. Overtime and weekend work may be available.

Toolmakers normally work in factories, with some based in smaller workshops. They usually wear overalls, protective goggles, earguards and safety shoes.

Skills and Interests

As a toolmaker or machine setter you should:

be able to understand engineering drawings
have good practical and technical skills
be able to work methodically and accurately
be a able to visualise a finished product
have good numeracy and computer skills
be able to work on your own
be able to concentrate for long periods
be able to use precise measuring instruments.

Entry

A common starting point is to train as an apprentice with an employer. The apprenticeship option is available for people aged between 16 and 24 (see Training section for contacts). Some GCSEs (A-C)/S grades (1-3) or equivalent in maths, English, science, engineering or design and technology may be useful.

Alternative qualifications open to all ages include Edexcel (BTEC) First Certificate in Engineering and National Certificate/Diploma in Manufacturing Engineering (Mechanical). These are available at local colleges.

For general information about engineering as a career, contact SEMTA and Women into Science and Engineering in Further Information. In addition, the Engineering Training Council (Northern Ireland) has careers information and a course database for local colleges. See their website in Further Information.

Training

Training is normally carried out on the job. There are a number of awards available for those working in this area including:

NVQ/SVQ Performing Engineering Operations levels 1 and 2
NVQ/SVQ Mechanical Manufacturing Engineering levels 2 and 3
NVQ Engineering Toolmaking at Level 3
City & Guilds Progression Award in Production Engineering (Machining) at levels 2 and 3
City & Guilds Certificate in Engineering at Level 3.

Apprenticeships may be available for those under the age of 24. In England these are currently Apprenticeships (level 2) and Advanced Apprenticeships (level 3). To find out more about these, visit www.apprenticeships.org.uk

Apprenticeships may be different in other areas. For further information see Scotland , Wales and Northern Ireland

Opportunities

Many companies now aim to train multiskilled craftspeople rather than specialists. Numbers of toolmakers have reduced due to the growth of computer-controlled machining and precision casting techniques.

With additional training, toolmakers can progress to engineering technician level, maintenance roles and workshop supervision.

Annual Income

Figures are intended as a guideline only.

Income starts at around £15,500 to £17,500 a year.
Average salaries for experienced toolmakers are between £18,000 and £22,000.
Senior craftspeople can earn up to £25,000.

Further information

Engineering Training Council (Northern Ireland)

Interpoint
20-24 York Street
Belfast
BT15 1AQ
Tel: 028 9032 9878

http://www.etcni.org.uk

SEMTA (Science Engineering and Manufacturing Technologies Alliance)

14 Upton Road
Watford
Hertfordshire
WD18 0JT
Tel: 0800 282 167

http://www.semta.org.uk

Women into Science and Engineering

6th Floor
10 Maltravers Street
London
WC2R 3ER
Tel: 020 7557 6426

http://www.wisecampaign.org.uk

WoW Careers Services Can Help You Prepare The Perfect CV or Provide Further Advice On This Career Path For More Information Call Us On 0845 224-2613 or Claim Your FREE CV Review Today.

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