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Entry Level Tool Designer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Tool Designer II

Loves Park, IL · On-site

$60K - $80K/yr

POSITION SUMMARY This is an entry-level position with a bachelor's degree requiring independent ... Generation of tool specifications defining the tool design and manufacturing parameters for ...

Entry Level Tool Maker - Technician

Mauston, WI · On-site

$29.50 - $38/hr

... for an Entry Level Tool Maker. You must be able to read blueprints and operate all machines ... Coordinate with engineers and designers to troubleshoot issues and suggest design improvements

New

Tool and Die Repair

Avon, OH

$23.50 - $29.50/hr

As a Tool & Die Repair associate, you will be responsibility for designing, building, and repairing ... We empower all our Associates - from entry-level to senior-level - with the skills and knowledge ...

Tool and Die Repair

Avon, OH

$23.50 - $29.50/hr

As a Tool & Die Repair associate, you will be responsibility for designing, building, and repairing ... We empower all our Associates - from entry-level to senior-level - with the skills and knowledge ...

This is the entry level position into the tool tech family. Candidates having qualifications that ... When you join our team, you'll have access to a wide range of resources designed to help you thrive ...

Be Seen First

Trainee - Die Designer / Mechanical Designer Location: Warwick RI Position Type: Full-Time ... This is a unique opportunity for a technician, tool maker apprentice, or mechanically gifted ...

This role is designed for individuals looking to develop a career in tool & die within a ... Qualifications • Entry level (0-2 years) • Prior manufacturing, machining, or maintenance ...

Knowledge of semiconductor tool requirements and installation processes * Familiarity with safety ... of entry-level designers, intermediate-level designers are responsible for production speed ...

... design experience; entry-level candidates with strong internship or co-op experience will be ... Experience with SOLIDWORKS or Inventor as a supplemental tool * Familiarity with engineering ...

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Entry Level Tool Designer information

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$23

$38

$51

How much do entry level tool designer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level tool designer in the United States is $38.10, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $31.25 and $44.47 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level tool designer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Tool Designer, you need a background in mechanical engineering or a related field, along with knowledge of design principles and manufacturing processes. Proficiency in CAD software (such as SolidWorks or AutoCAD) and familiarity with industry standards are typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective communication help you collaborate with engineers and production teams. These competencies ensure the creation of practical, efficient tools that meet project specifications and support manufacturing goals.

How to get into entry level tool design?

To enter an entry-level tool design role, candidates typically need a background in mechanical engineering, manufacturing, or a related field, along with proficiency in CAD software such as SolidWorks or AutoCAD. Gaining hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or technical training programs can also improve job prospects. Strong problem-solving skills and knowledge of manufacturing processes are valuable for success in this field.

What is the difference between Entry Level Tool Designer vs Tooling Engineer?

AspectEntry Level Tool DesignerTooling Engineer
Required CredentialsAssociate's degree or technical certificationBachelor's degree in engineering or related field
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, design officesProduction facilities, design departments
Industry UsageCommon in manufacturing and tooling companiesUsed across manufacturing, automotive, aerospace
Job FocusDesigning and drafting tools and diesDeveloping and maintaining tooling processes

Entry Level Tool Designers focus on designing and drafting tools and dies, often with technical certifications, working mainly in manufacturing environments. Tooling Engineers have a broader engineering background, overseeing tooling processes and improvements. Both roles are essential in manufacturing industries, but the Tooling Engineer typically requires more advanced education and experience.

What does an entry level tool designer do?

An Entry Level Tool Designer assists in creating and modifying designs for tools, dies, jigs, fixtures, and other devices used in manufacturing processes. They typically work under the supervision of senior designers or engineers, using CAD software to produce technical drawings and specifications. Their responsibilities may include collaborating with production teams, performing basic calculations, and ensuring that tools are efficient, cost-effective, and meet quality standards.

What does an entry level tool designer make?

An entry-level tool designer typically earns between $40,000 and $60,000 annually, depending on location, industry, and company size. Starting salaries may include benefits such as health insurance and opportunities for skill development in CAD software and manufacturing processes.

What are some typical challenges faced by entry level tool designers, and how can they overcome them?

Entry level tool designers often encounter challenges such as interpreting complex engineering drawings, adhering to tight project deadlines, and learning to use specialized CAD software efficiently. They may also need to balance creativity with strict manufacturing and safety standards. To overcome these challenges, new designers benefit from seeking mentorship from experienced colleagues, actively participating in team design reviews, and regularly updating their technical skills through training. Open communication within the team and a willingness to ask questions can also accelerate learning and professional growth.
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Tool Designer jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Tool Designer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Tool Designer jobs? The most popular types of Tool Designer jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Tool Designer jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Tool Designer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Tool Designer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, and 3% Part Time. Highlights an 89% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $79,245 per year, or $38.1 per hour.

Tool Designer II

Gleason

Loves Park, IL • On-site

$60K - $80K/yr

Full-time

Retirement

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

About Gleason
With more than 2,200 employees and 13 manufacturing facilities worldwide, Gleason Corporation is a leader in gear technology. Gleason's product and service offerings include gear and transmission design software, gear manufacturing machines and related accessories, gear metrology equipment and automation systems. Gleason products are used by customers in e-mobility, commercial vehicles, aerospace, agriculture, mining, sustainable energy, construction, power tools, marine and many other industries
Working for Gleason, you will be connected to work that matters, putting your expertise to its best use while developing skills for the future. The result is a career defined by you, supported by Gleason and built on tangible accomplishments. As we continue to grow and evolve, we are looking for the right people to join us on our mission. If you are interested in being part of our team, there are a few things you should know: We are energized by challenges and the effort needed to solve them. We like working with people who are positive, adaptable and growth-minded. We care how work gets accomplished and are deeply invested in the success of our customers and colleagues. If this sounds like you, we invite you to read on and learn more.
Why work at Gleason?
  • Excellent benefits package including a 6% Company 401(k) match
  • Flexible scheduling
  • Tuition Assistance Program
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Formal and informal Development opportunities.

POSITION SUMMARY
This is an entry-level position with a bachelor's degree requiring independent completion of work assignments. Under direct supervision, completes the design-associated work for one or more of our product types: hobs, milling cutters, shaper cutters.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Essential Functions Statement(s)
  • Ability to design involute type tools for one of the main four product types which includes hobs, shaper cutters, milling cutters, and bevel cutters.
  • Demonstrate the ability to participate in detailed meetings or phone calls with internal and external customers.
  • Independently complete standard involute designs and special projects.
  • Independently understand at least one style of non-standard type tools.
  • Work with sales and manufacturing to ensure all customer requirements are met.
  • Generation of tool specifications defining the tool design and manufacturing parameters for customer quotation.
  • Demonstrate the ability to complete work within the established workload parameters.
  • Ability to use Gleason programs and Microsoft Office software.

The salary range in this posting depends on qualifications and experience. Actual compensation may vary, and this job posting is not necessarily reflective of actual compensation that may be earned, nor a promise of any specific pay for any specific employee, which is always dependent on relevant experience, qualifications/education, and other factors including work schedule, shift premiums, and overtime.
Gleason is an Equal Opportunity Employer and considers applicants for all positions without regard to age, disability, genetic information and/or predisposing genetic characteristics, marital status, national origin, race/color, religion, sex/gender, sexual orientation, military or veteran status, victim of domestic violence status, arrest or conviction record, or any other characteristic protected by applicable laws.
OFFICE ENVIRONMENT
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
The physical demands described here are representative of those that would need to be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job in an office environment. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is occasionally required to stand; walk; sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; and talk or hear. The employee may occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job may include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.
WORK ENVIRONMENT
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee may encounter while performing the essential functions of this job in an office environment. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is occasionally exposed to moving mechanical parts. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.
REASONABLE ACCOMMODATIONS
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed above are representative of the knowledge, skill, experience and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed. Employees are required to follow any other instructions and to perform any other duties requested by their manager or supervisor.
DISCLAIMER
The duties listed in this job description are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed and is not an all inclusive summary of job duties and responsibilities. The omission of specific statements or duties and responsibilities does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to the position. This job description does not constitute an employment agreement between the employer and employee and is subject to change by the Company as the needs of the Company and requirements of the job change.