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Sample Maker Jobs in Houston, TX (NOW HIRING)

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Master Tool & Die Maker Employment Type: Full-Time Position Summary The Master Tool & Die Maker is ... Manufacture new tooling from engineering drawings, samples, or customer specifications. * Repair ...

As a Batch Maker Production Operator, you will play a crucial role in preparing and blending raw ... Prepare, label, and send samples to Quality Control (QC). * Organize, label, and palletize products ...

Senior Copilot Studio Developer

Houston, TX · On-site

$52 - $68.75/hr

... templates, code samples, onboarding content, and coaching for makers in GHD business units ... maker communities. Skills & Competencies * Strong hands-on delivery experience with Microsoft ...

Senior Copilot Studio Developer

Houston, TX · Hybrid

$52 - $68.75/hr

... templates, code samples, onboarding content, and coaching for makers in GHD business units ... maker communities. Skills & Competencies * Strong hands-on delivery experience with Microsoft ...

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Sample Maker information

See Houston, TX salary details

$11

$16

$20

How much do sample maker jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for sample maker in Houston, TX is $16.58, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.90 and $18.37 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a sample maker do?

A sample maker creates prototypes or samples of clothing, accessories, or products based on design specifications. They work with fabrics, patterns, and sewing techniques, often using tools like sewing machines and pattern paper, to produce accurate representations of final products for review and approval.

What are Sample Makers?

Sample Makers are skilled professionals who create prototypes or samples of products, typically in industries like fashion, manufacturing, or product design. They interpret design specifications, select appropriate materials, and construct sample items that serve as models for mass production. Their work is crucial for testing product concepts, refining designs, and ensuring quality before full-scale manufacturing begins. Sample Makers often collaborate closely with designers, engineers, and production teams to ensure the final product meets all requirements.

What are some common challenges faced by Sample Makers, and how can they be effectively managed?

Sample Makers often encounter challenges such as working with tight deadlines, adapting to last-minute design changes, and ensuring precise execution of prototypes. Managing these challenges requires strong attention to detail, effective communication with designers and production teams, and flexibility in problem-solving. Being proactive in requesting feedback and maintaining organized documentation can also help streamline the sample-making process and improve collaboration.

What Does a Sample Maker Do?

A sample maker most commonly works for a fashion company and tests a sample pattern on a piece of fabric before it goes into large-scale production. As a sample maker, your responsibilities include creating fabric samples for clothing or garment makers and sending these partial samples or prototypes for different apparel products to your supervisor or other technical directors. Other duties include ensuring that the technical aspect of the production is free of flaws and that garment factory owners clearly understand the directions for large-scale production of the patterns.

What is the difference between Sample Maker vs Pattern Maker?

AspectSample MakerPattern Maker
Primary RoleCreates physical prototypes or samples of garments based on design specifications.Develops and drafts patterns used to cut fabric for garment production.
Required SkillsSewing, fabric knowledge, and sample construction techniques.Pattern drafting, grading, and technical drawing skills.
Work EnvironmentSeamstress workshops, fashion studios, or sample rooms.Design studios, pattern departments, or technical design offices.
Industry UsageUsed in fashion, apparel, and costume design for creating prototypes.Used in apparel manufacturing, pattern development, and technical design.

The main difference between a Sample Maker and a Pattern Maker lies in their focus: Sample Makers build physical garment samples, while Pattern Makers develop the patterns used to produce those garments. Both roles are essential in the fashion industry, often working closely together to bring design concepts to life efficiently.

How to become a sample maker?

To become a sample maker, typically one needs a high school diploma or equivalent and experience in sewing, pattern making, or garment construction. Developing skills in fabric handling, pattern drafting, and using tools like sewing machines or CAD software is essential; some roles may require vocational training or apprenticeships. Building a portfolio of sample work can also improve job prospects in this field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Sample Maker, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Sample Maker, you need strong technical skills in pattern making, garment construction, and a solid understanding of textiles, usually supported by experience or vocational training in fashion or manufacturing. Familiarity with sewing machines, CAD software, and measuring tools is often required, along with knowledge of industry standards. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and effective communication are essential soft skills for accurately interpreting design specifications and collaborating with designers. These skills ensure the creation of high-quality prototypes that meet design intent and production requirements.

What jobs pay $250 an hour?

Sample Makers typically do not earn $250 an hour; such high rates are more common in specialized fields like experienced consultants, surgeons, or high-level executives. Freelance professionals with rare skills or those working in niche markets may reach this pay level, often requiring advanced expertise, certifications, or a strong reputation. Most jobs paying this rate involve significant experience, specialization, or entrepreneurial work.

How much does a sample maker make?

A sample maker's salary varies depending on experience, location, and industry, but typically ranges from $25,000 to $60,000 annually. Skilled sample makers with specialized tools or certifications may earn higher wages, especially in fashion or manufacturing environments where precision is important.
What are popular job titles related to Sample Maker jobs in Houston, TX? For Sample Maker jobs in Houston, TX, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Sample Maker jobs in Houston, TX look for? The top searched job categories for Sample Maker jobs in Houston, TX are:
Infographic showing various Sample Maker job openings in Houston, TX as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $34,488 per year, or $16.6 per hour.

Master Tool and Die Maker

Tool and Die by H & H Inc.

South Houston, TX • On-site

$28 - $45/hr

Full-time

PTO

This job post has expired 2 days ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Master Tool & Die Maker
Employment Type: Full-Time

Position Summary

The Master Tool & Die Maker is responsible for designing, building, repairing, modifying, maintaining, and troubleshooting tooling used in metal stamping, punching, and press brake operations. This position requires a highly skilled individual capable of independently manufacturing precision dies, maintaining tooling, sharpening punches and dies, and supporting production by setting up and troubleshooting equipment throughout the shop.

This individual serves as the technical expert for tooling and machine setup, ensuring production equipment operates safely, efficiently, and produces quality parts.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

  • Design, build, repair, and modify progressive, compound, blanking, piercing, forming, and bending dies.
  • Manufacture new tooling from engineering drawings, samples, or customer specifications.
  • Repair damaged tooling to restore production capability.
  • Diagnose tooling failures and recommend improvements to increase tool life and productivity.
  • Sharpen punches, dies, shear blades, and other cutting tools while maintaining proper clearances and tolerances.
  • Perform preventative maintenance on production tooling.
  • Set up stamping presses, punch presses, press brakes, and related production equipment.
  • Install, align, and adjust dies for production runs.
  • Train and assist machine operators with proper machine setup and operation.
  • Troubleshoot production problems involving tooling, machine alignment, part quality, or equipment performance.
  • Machine precision components using manual mills, lathes, surface grinders, drill presses, and other toolroom equipment.
  • Operate CNC equipment when required.
  • Inspect completed tooling using precision measuring instruments.
  • Maintain proper documentation of tooling repairs and maintenance.
  • Recommend tooling improvements to reduce downtime and improve quality.
  • Work with engineering and production personnel to develop efficient manufacturing solutions.
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area.
  • Follow all company safety policies and wear required PPE.
  • Perform other duties as assigned to support production operations.

Required Skills and Qualifications

  • Extensive experience as a Tool & Die Maker in a metal stamping environment.
  • Expert knowledge of stamping, punching, forming, and press brake tooling.
  • Ability to build complete dies from prints or concepts.
  • Strong understanding of die clearances, tool steels, heat treatment, and tool design.
  • Experience sharpening punches, dies, and cutting tools.
  • Ability to troubleshoot tooling and machine problems independently.
  • Proficiency operating:
    • Surface grinders
    • Manual milling machines
    • Engine lathes
    • Drill presses
    • Saws
    • Tool grinders
    • Presses
  • Ability to set up production equipment for operators.
  • Knowledge of hydraulic, mechanical, and pneumatic presses.
  • Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, and GD&T.
  • Experience using precision measuring equipment including:
    • Micrometers
    • Calipers
    • Height gauges
    • Indicators
    • Gauge blocks
  • Strong mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
  • Strong organizational and time management skills.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Journeyman Tool & Die Maker certification or equivalent experience.
  • 10+ years of Tool & Die experience.
  • Experience with progressive dies and high-volume production.
  • Welding and fabrication experience.
  • CNC programming and machining experience.
  • Experience with CAD software is a plus.

Physical Requirements

  • Frequently lift up to 50 pounds.
  • Stand and walk for extended periods.
  • Bend, kneel, stoop, and climb as necessary.
  • Use hand tools and precision measuring equipment daily.
  • Work safely around industrial machinery.

Work Environment

  • Manufacturing facility with exposure to moving machinery, metal chips, oils, lubricants, moderate noise, and in a warehouse.
  • PPE required at all times in designated production areas.

Core Competencies

  • Tool & Die Manufacturing
  • Precision Machining
  • Die Repair & Maintenance
  • Punch & Die Sharpening
  • Press & Brake Setup
  • Tool Troubleshooting
  • Blueprint Reading
  • Quality Inspection
  • Safety Awareness
  • Leadership & Operator Support
  • Continuous Improvement
  • Problem Solving

Company Description

We have been providing critical parts with tight tolerances to clients in the oil/sub-sea industry for over two decades, with our skilled team here at H&H we are a one stop shop and ready to take care of all your needs. We specialize in tooling design and will work with you to provide you with the exact tool for the job, whether it’s a basic blanking die, a form die, or a complex progressive die. In addition to our manufacturing, we also keep an active cnc shop running, which is equipped with fabrication, cnc milling centers, cnc lathe, manual mill, manual lathe, radial drill presses, lasers and more.