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Apprentice Toolmaker Jobs in Rhode Island (NOW HIRING)

POSITION SUMMARY This position is responsible for the construction and troubleshooting progressive die tooling and fixtures for welding, soldering and assembly working from specified design prints ...

POSITION SUMMARY This position is responsible for the construction and troubleshooting progressive die tooling and fixtures for welding, soldering and assembly working from specified design prints ...

POSITION SUMMARY This position is responsible for the construction and troubleshooting progressive die tooling and fixtures for welding, soldering and assembly working from specified design prints ...

POSITION SUMMARY This position is responsible for the construction and troubleshooting progressive die tooling and fixtures for welding, soldering and assembly working from specified design prints ...

POSITION SUMMARY This position is responsible for the construction and troubleshooting progressive die tooling and fixtures for welding, soldering and assembly working from specified design prints ...

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This is a unique opportunity for a technician, tool maker apprentice, or mechanically gifted ... Work directly under senior designers and toolmakers to learn the intricacies of progressive, stage ...

Apprentice Toolmaker information

See Rhode Island salary details

$13

$25

$38

How much do apprentice toolmaker jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice toolmaker in Rhode Island is $25.83, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.85 and $32.02 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Apprentice Toolmakers?

Apprentice Toolmakers are individuals who are training to become skilled workers specializing in creating, repairing, and maintaining precision tools, dies, molds, and other equipment used in manufacturing processes. During their apprenticeship, they learn to use various machines and hand tools, read blueprints, and follow technical drawings. They work under the supervision of experienced toolmakers to gain hands-on experience and develop the necessary skills for the trade. Apprenticeships typically combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction. Upon completion, apprentices can become fully qualified toolmakers and pursue advanced opportunities in the field.

What are some common challenges faced by apprentice toolmakers during their training period?

Apprentice toolmakers often encounter challenges such as mastering precision measurement techniques, interpreting complex technical drawings, and developing proficiency with a variety of manual and CNC machines. Adjusting to the rigorous safety and quality standards in a workshop environment can also be demanding. However, these challenges are integral to the learning process and are typically addressed through mentorship, structured training, and hands-on practice alongside experienced toolmakers.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Apprentice Toolmaker, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Apprentice Toolmaker, you need a solid understanding of mechanical principles, basic math, and blueprint reading, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with precision measuring tools, manual and CNC machines, and safety protocols is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and a willingness to learn are essential soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for creating accurate tools and components, ensuring quality, and supporting efficient manufacturing processes.

What is the difference between Apprentice Toolmaker vs Toolmaker?

AspectApprentice ToolmakerToolmaker
QualificationsTypically in training, may have a high school diploma or technical certificateRequires completed apprenticeship or technical certification
Work ExperienceLimited or none, under supervisionExperienced, skilled in toolmaking processes
Work EnvironmentTraining workshops, manufacturing plantsManufacturing facilities, machine shops
Job RoleLearning and assisting in tool fabrication and repairDesigning, fabricating, and repairing tools and dies

In summary, an Apprentice Toolmaker is in training and gaining foundational skills, while a Toolmaker is a fully qualified professional with specialized expertise in creating and repairing tools and dies.

What are the most commonly searched types of Toolmaker jobs in Rhode Island? The most popular types of Toolmaker jobs in Rhode Island are:
What are popular job titles related to Apprentice Toolmaker jobs in Rhode Island? For Apprentice Toolmaker jobs in Rhode Island, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Apprentice Toolmaker jobs in Rhode Island look for? The top searched job categories for Apprentice Toolmaker jobs in Rhode Island are:
What cities in Rhode Island are hiring for Apprentice Toolmaker jobs? Cities in Rhode Island with the most Apprentice Toolmaker job openings:
Infographic showing various Apprentice Toolmaker job openings in Rhode Island as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $53,732 per year, or $25.8 per hour.
Toolmaker

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

POSITION SUMMARY
This position is responsible for the construction and troubleshooting progressive die tooling and fixtures for welding, soldering and assembly working from specified design prints and verbal instructions utilizing all standard tool room equipment.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
  • Study blueprints, sketches, models, or specifications to plan sequences of operations for fabricating tools, dies, or assemblies.
  • Work from specified design prints and verbal instructions to manufacture die components tooling and fixtures for welding, soldering and assembly.
  • Collaborate with Tool Designer to help develop and design new tools and dies.
  • Setup and operate conventional or computer numerically controlled machine tools such as lathes, milling machines, drill presses and grinders to cut, bore, grind, or otherwise shape parts to prescribed dimensions and finishes.
  • Visualize and compute dimensions, sizes, shapes, and tolerances of assemblies based on specifications.
  • Verify dimensions, alignments, and clearances of finished parts for conformance to specifications, using measuring instruments such as calipers, gauge blocks, micrometers and dial indicators.
  • Inspect finished dies for smoothness, contour conformity and defects.
  • Fit and assemble parts to make, repair, or modify dies, jigs, gauges, and tools using machine tools and hand tools.
  • Use layout and assembly drawings to determine fit and function of components and fully assemble dies and fixtures.
  • Conduct test runs with completed tools or dies to ensure that parts meet specifications making adjustments as necessary.
  • Select metals to be used from a range of metals and alloys, based on properties such as harness and heat tolerance.
  • Grind and adjust various parts to properly fit them together.
  • Lift, position, and secure machined parts on surface plates or worktables using hoists, vises, v-blocks, or angle plates.
  • Smooth and polish flat and contoured surfaces of parts or tools using scrapers, abrasive stones, files, and emery cloths.
  • Measure, mark, and scribe metal or plastic stock to layout machining using instruments such as protractors, micrometers, scribes, and rulers.
  • Setup heat-treating furnaces and feed or place parts, tools, or assemblies into furnaces to harden.
  • Adhere to all safety policies and procedures and keep work area clean in accordance with specified rules and regulations.
  • Adhere to EMS and IATF 16949 Policies and Procedures.
  • Perform all other related duties as assigned by the supervisor.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES
  • Ability to work effectively with internal/external personnel.
  • Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing.
  • Ability to read and comprehend instructions, blueprints, design specifications, correspondence, work orders and production schedules.
  • Knowledge and good understanding of metals to be used from a range of metals and alloys based on properties such as harness and heat tolerance.
  • Knowledge of proper shimming techniques to fit parts when required.
  • Knowledge of proper use of tool fabricating accessories such as vises, v-blocks, angle plates, and edge/center finders.
  • Ability to operate hoists.
  • Knowledge of machines and tools, including designs, uses, repair and maintenance.

QUALIFICATIONS
  • High School Diploma or GED equivalent; or graduation from a technical/trade school.
  • Minimum of five (5) years' experience as a Tool Maker working in a metal stamping environment.
  • Must be able to read, write, and speak English proficiently.
  • Must be proficient with computers.
  • Must have good basic math skills and the ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measure using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • Proficient with Computer Numerically Controlled (CNC) milling machines.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS
The physical demands described are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee must be able to work in a variety of physical positions, including standing, sitting, bending, reaching, stooping, walking, and stretching. The employee is regularly required to talk and/or hear.
The employee is frequently required to use hands, handle or feel. The employee must be able to perform physical activities such as, but not limited to, lifting objects up to seventy-five (75) pounds. Specific vision abilities include close vision. Employee may be exposed to hazardous materials and chemicals.
WORK ENVIRONMENT
The work environment characteristics described are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee typically works in an industrial manufacturing environment. The employee may work near moving mechanical machinery and/or vehicles, and the noise level in the work environment may range from moderate to loud.
The duties listed above are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed and is not a comprehensive listing of all functions and tasks performed by positions in this class. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to the position.
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Aptiv is an equal employment opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability status, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law.