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Tool Builder Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SUMMARY OF POSITION The Tool Builder/Assembler will be responsible for locating, fitting, and assembling manufactured and supplied parts in accordance with customer blueprints and specifications.

SUMMARY OF POSITION Under shop supervision, the Tool Builder/Bencher is responsible for accurately and efficiently deburring and surface finishing tooling and parts manufactured to customer ...

Machine Tool Builder

Southfield, MI

$18.75 - $24.25/hr

Machine Tool Builder Day Shift: 6 am - 4:30 pm Individual is experienced performing the activities listed below on their own with little to no guidance or assistance from a Skill Trades Leader in a ...

Machine Tool Builder

Warren, MI · On-site

$19.25 - $24.75/hr

We are currently seeking a Machine Tool Builder. Responsibilities: * Install and repair mechanical equipment and fixtures in an industrial environment. * Install and build tooling and integration for ...

Machine Tool Builder

Southfield, MI

$18.75 - $24.25/hr

Machine Tool Builder Day Shift: 6 am - 4:30 pm Individual is experienced performing the activities listed below on their own with little to no guidance or assistance from a Skill Trades Leader in a ...

Tool Builder 2

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$22 - $26/hr

SUMMARY OF POSITION The Tool Builder/Assembler will be responsible for locating, fitting, and assembling manufactured and supplied parts in accordance with customer blueprints and specifications.

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Aerospace Tool Builder

Macomb, MI · On-site

$29 - $33/hr

Tool Builder * First shift: - starting at 7AM 45-55 hours per week and up to 6 12's or 7 10's * Location: Macomb, MI * Experience: 5 years of aerospace specific tooling (more years of experience if ...

Machine Tool Builder

Auburn Hills, MI · On-site

$19.50 - $25/hr

We are seeking a skilled and detail-oriented Machine Tool Builder to join our team. This role involves assembling, installing, and troubleshooting custom automation equipment and machinery. The ideal ...

Machine Tool Builder

Auburn Hills, MI · On-site

$19.50 - $25/hr

We are seeking a skilled and detail-oriented Machine Tool Builder to join our team. This role involves assembling, installing, and troubleshooting custom automation equipment and machinery. The ideal ...

Machine Tool Builder

Auburn Hills, MI · On-site

$19.50 - $25/hr

We are seeking a skilled and detail-oriented Machine Tool Builder to join our team. This role involves assembling, installing, and troubleshooting custom automation equipment and machinery. The ideal ...

Be Seen First

We are looking for a skilled Machine Tool Builder to join our team. In this role, you will read prints to assemble custom machinery and build precision production tooling. Experience building welding ...

Machine Tool Builder

Auburn Hills, MI · On-site

$19.50 - $25/hr

We are seeking a skilled and detail-oriented Machine Tool Builder to join our team. This role involves assembling, installing, and troubleshooting custom automation equipment and machinery. The ideal ...

MI

$13 - $18/hr

Join us as a Tool/Fixture Builder and start building a career in aerospace manufacturing. This is an exciting opportunity for individuals with general factory, assembly, or mechanical experience who ...

Showing results 21-40

Tool Builder information

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How much do tool builder jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for tool builder in the United States is $24.12, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.91 and $26.20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a tool builder?

Tool Builders are skilled professionals who design, construct, modify, and repair tools, dies, jigs, fixtures, and other specialized devices used in manufacturing and production. They work closely with engineers and machinists to ensure that tools meet precise specifications and help optimize production processes. Tool Builders often use advanced machinery, computer-aided design (CAD) software, and manual techniques to create tools that improve efficiency and maintain product quality.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a tool builder?

To thrive as a Tool Builder, you need strong mechanical aptitude, precision measurement skills, and experience with metalworking processes, often supported by a high school diploma or completion of an apprenticeship. Familiarity with CNC machines, CAD software, and hand or power tools is typically required, along with safety certifications such as OSHA. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective teamwork help Tool Builders excel in creating high-quality tools and dies. These abilities are crucial for ensuring that custom tools meet exact specifications, support efficient manufacturing, and maintain workplace safety.

What are some common challenges tool builders face when working on custom projects?

Tool Builders often encounter challenges such as interpreting complex blueprints or specifications, sourcing specialized materials, and collaborating closely with engineers to ensure tools meet precise requirements. Custom projects may require innovative problem-solving to address unexpected issues during the fabrication process. Effective communication and adaptability are crucial, as priorities can shift quickly based on production needs or technical constraints.

What is the difference between Tool Builder vs Tool Technician?

AspectTool BuilderTool Technician
CredentialsTypically requires technical certifications or vocational training in manufacturing or carpentryRequires technical certifications, often in maintenance or repair
Work EnvironmentWorks in manufacturing, workshop, or construction settings, building tools and equipmentWorks in maintenance or repair shops, troubleshooting and fixing tools and machinery
Employer & IndustryManufacturing plants, construction companies, custom fabrication shopsMaintenance departments, industrial facilities, repair services

Tool Builders focus on designing and constructing new tools and equipment, often working in manufacturing or construction environments. Tool Technicians primarily maintain, repair, and troubleshoot existing tools and machinery. While both roles require technical skills and certifications, Tool Builders are more involved in creation, whereas Tool Technicians focus on upkeep and repair.

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Cities with the most Tool Builder job openings:

What states have the most Tool Builder jobs?

States with the most job openings for Tool Builder jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Tool Builder jobs?

For Tool Builder jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Tool Builder job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,180 per year, or $24.1 per hour.

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 12 days ago


Job description

Ascent Aerospace – Inspiring the next generation of flight!

Ascent Aerospace is a world-renowned, single-source provider of production and automated assembly systems for the aerospace and defense industry. We provide high-precision advanced automated equipment as well as a full suite of both mold and assembly tooling required for the aerospace manufacturing market, including the largest Invar molds ever made— making us the largest tooling group in the industry. We work with our customers to develop their project and see it through, from process engineering to build and installation, to ensure it is an efficient and cost-effective solution. As a true, single-source integrator, we have proven tools to surpass our customer expectations. We have greater control of timing and schedules, which allows for 100% accountability, and avoids costly mark-ups, ultimately saving our customers money. The result: a group of businesses, each an industry leader within their own discipline, now acting as one truly integrated supply base. 

SUMMARY OF POSITION

The Tool Builder/Assembler will be responsible for locating, fitting, and assembling manufactured and supplied parts in accordance with customer blueprints and specifications.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

This document in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee occupying the position.

  • Review blueprint details and assemblies
  • Check all details, assemblies, and finished products for conformance to blueprint dimensions and identification
  • Visually install details, assemblies, and hardware such as keenserts, bushings, and thermocouples
  • Identify molds and tools per customer blueprint, tool and purchase order requirements using tags, engraving machines, stencils and painting
  • Plumb vacuum systems and verify integrity through pressure testing and leak checking
  • Drill clearance holes, Drill and tap holes
  • Participation and take responsibility for 6S
  • Communicate with leads and supervisors
  • Any additional duties as reasonably assigned by management

REQUIRED SKILLS, EDUCATION, AND EXPERIENCE

  • 2+ years of experience in assembling work in similar industries or environments
  • Ability to use manual inspection equipment (micrometers, calipers, etc)
  • Basic knowledge of the Metric System
  • This position must meet Export Control Compliance requirements, therefore a "US Person" as defined by 22.C.F.R. is required

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

  • Blueprint interpretation and GD&T (fractions, decimals, and tolerancing)
  • Knowledge of manufacturing practices including welding, machining, and fastening
  • Fork and crane operating skills and certification

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY

  • None.

TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS

  • Occasional local travel during the business day.

WORKING CONDITIONS

Working conditions described here are representative of those that may be experienced by an employee on a daily basis while performing the functions of this job.

  • While performing the duties of this job, employees may be exposed to moving mechanical parts, fumes and airborne particles
  • The employee may be exposed to vibration
  • The employee is occasionally exposed to caustic chemicals. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate
  • May be required to travel to other site locations during the workday
  • May be required to work weekends to meet department and business demands
  • Work with safe manufacturing processes and understand that eyewear is mandatory in the manufacturing area
  • Knows that safety shoes are recommended in the manufacturing area

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.  Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus.

  • Must be able to sit, climb, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl
  • Must be able to see, talk, hear, touch, feel and reach with hands and arms
  • Must be able to frequently walk and stand for extended periods of time
  • Must be able to lift and move up to 35lbs, occasionally lift and move objects up to 50lbs

BENEFITS 

  • Medical Insurance
  • Dental Insurance
  • Vision Insurance
  • Short- and Long-Term Disability Insurance
  • Life Insurance
  • AD&D Insurance
  • PTO
  • 401k Match

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

Employment is contingent upon successfully passing an employee reference check, criminal background check, and drug screening.

This position requires use of information that is subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). All applicants must be U.S. persons within the meaning of ITAR. ITAR defines a U.S. person as a U.S. Citizen, U.S. Permanent Resident (i.e. 'Green Card Holder').

Ascent Aerospace is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, pregnancy, genetic information, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other protected category under applicable federal, state, and local laws. If you have a disability and you believe you need a reasonable accommodation in order to search for a job opening or to submit an online application, please call toll-free +1 586-726-0500. This phone number is created exclusively to assist disabled job seekers whose disability prevents them from being able to apply online. Only messages left for this purpose will be returned. Messages left for other purposes, such as following up on an application or technical issues not related to a disability, will not receive a response.

No Unauthorized Referrals from Recruiters & Vendors

Please note that Ascent Aerospace does not seek or accept unsolicited resumes or offers from third party recruiters or staffing agencies associated with any published or unpublished employment opportunities. Any unsolicited information sent to Ascent Aerospace will be considered as unencumbered and free from any fee or charge whatsoever. Only members of our Human Resources Team have the authority to engage or authorize recruiting services, which must be agreed upon before the unsolicited resume or offer is received.