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Tool Die Apprentice Jobs in Madison, WI (NOW HIRING)

Stoughton Trailers

Tool & Die

Stoughton, WI

$22.50 - $30/hr

Completion of a technical school machine tool apprenticeship or equivalent experience * Minimum 10 ... Tool/Die/Mold Setup Experience * Blueprint Reading ID:qnkTyx

Stoughton Trailers

Tool & Die Maker

Stoughton, WI · On-site

$25.25 - $31.75/hr

Completion of a technical school machine tool apprenticeship or equivalent training and experience ... Why This Role Matters - The Tool and Die Maker plays a critical role in ensuring manufacturing ...

Stoughton Trailers

Tool & Die Maker

Stoughton, WI · On-site

$25.25 - $31.75/hr

Completion of a technical school machine tool apprenticeship or equivalent training and experience ... Why This Role Matters - The Tool and Die Maker plays a critical role in ensuring manufacturing ...

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Tool Die Apprentice information

See Madison, WI salary details

$13

$26

$39

How much do tool die apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of May 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for tool die apprentice in Madison, WI is $26.58, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.38 and $32.93 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Tool Die Apprentice, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Tool Die Apprentice, you need a solid understanding of mechanical principles, blueprint reading, and basic machining, often supported by a high school diploma or technical training. Familiarity with CNC machines, hand tools, and measurement instruments, as well as safety certifications, is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and a willingness to learn are valuable soft skills in this role. These abilities ensure precise fabrication, safe operation, and continuous improvement in a highly technical manufacturing environment.

What are some common challenges faced by Tool Die Apprentices during on-the-job training?

Tool Die Apprentices often encounter challenges such as mastering the precise measurement and machining techniques required to fabricate and repair complex dies and tools. Adjusting to the pace of production environments and learning to interpret technical blueprints can also be demanding for newcomers. Additionally, apprentices must develop strong problem-solving skills to troubleshoot equipment malfunctions and ensure quality standards are consistently met. Collaboration with experienced machinists and engineers is key, as it provides valuable mentorship and helps apprentices build confidence in their abilities.

What are Tool Die Apprentices?

Tool Die Apprentices are individuals who are learning the skills necessary to become tool and die makers. They work under the supervision of experienced professionals to gain hands-on experience in designing, constructing, repairing, and maintaining precision tools, dies, and special guiding and holding devices used in manufacturing. Apprenticeships typically combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction and can last several years. Upon completion, apprentices are often eligible to become certified tool and die makers, opening doors to advanced manufacturing careers.

What is the difference between Tool Die Apprentice vs Machinist?

AspectTool Die ApprenticeMachinist
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or GED, apprenticeship programs, technical trainingHigh school diploma or GED, technical training, sometimes apprenticeships
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, machine shops, tool and die shopsMachine shops, manufacturing facilities, production environments
Industry UsageCommonly employed in tool and die manufacturing, automotive, aerospaceUsed across various manufacturing sectors including aerospace, automotive, and general machining

Both Tool Die Apprentices and Machinists work in manufacturing environments, often requiring similar technical training and certifications. While Tool Die Apprentices focus on learning to create and repair dies and molds, Machinists operate a variety of machine tools to produce precision parts. The roles are closely related, with apprentices typically training to become skilled Machinists or Tool and Die Makers in the future.

What job categories do people searching Tool Die Apprentice jobs in Madison, WI look for? The top searched job categories for Tool Die Apprentice jobs in Madison, WI are:
What cities near Madison, WI are hiring for Tool Die Apprentice jobs? Cities near Madison, WI with the most Tool Die Apprentice job openings:
Tool Die Apprentice jobs near you
Infographic showing various Tool Die Apprentice job openings in Madison, WI as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $55,286 per year, or $26.6 per hour.
Tool & Die

Tool & Die

Stoughton Trailers

Stoughton, WI

$22.50 - $30/hr

Other

Posted 6 days ago

Stoughton Trailers rating

5.3

Company rating: 5.3 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

398th of 415 rated machine equipment manufacturers

Job description

Tool & Die Maker – 2nd Shift

Stoughton Trailers, LLC | Stoughton, WI

Build the tools that build our trailers.

Stoughton Trailers, LLC is seeking a highly skilled Tool & Die Maker to join our manufacturing team on 2nd shift. This role is ideal for a precision-driven craftsperson who takes pride in solving complex machining challenges and supporting high-quality production operations.

Schedule:

???? Monday–Thursday

⏰ 4:30 PM – 3:00 AM

???? Overtime opportunities available

What You’ll Do

As a Tool & Die Maker, you’ll play a critical role in keeping our manufacturing operations running efficiently by designing, building, and maintaining the tools that support production. You’ll work independently, apply advanced machining skills, and collaborate with production teams to drive continuous improvement.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Design, build, assemble, repair, and sharpen dies, fixtures, gauges, and production equipment
  • Set up, program, and operate CNC and manual machining equipment, including mills, lathes, grinders, and presses
  • Read and interpret blueprints to perform layouts and inspections to tight tolerances (±.0005”)
  • Select appropriate materials and prepare metal surfaces through cleaning, deburring, and finishing
  • Troubleshoot production equipment issues and support process improvements
  • Use precision measuring tools and conduct visual and dimensional inspections throughout the process
  • Maintain a strong commitment to safety, quality, teamwork, and dependable attendance
  • Work overtime as needed to support production demands
What You Bring
  • Completion of a technical school machine tool apprenticeship or equivalent experience
  • Minimum 10,000 hours of hands-on machining experience
  • Strong understanding of machining operations, tooling, hydraulics, pneumatics, and metal forming processes
  • Advanced mechanical aptitude, solid math skills, and the ability to work independently with minimal supervision
  • A detail-oriented mindset with pride in producing high-quality, precision components
Why Join Stoughton Trailers?

At Stoughton Trailers, LLC, you’ll be part of a company that values craftsmanship, innovation, and continuous improvement. We offer stable schedules, overtime opportunities, and the chance to work with skilled professionals who take pride in what they build—every shift, every day.

You should be proficient in:

  • Tape Measure Reading
  • CNC Machine Setup & Changeover
  • Advanced Inspection & Gauge Measurement
  • Tool/Die/Mold Repair Skills
  • Tool/Die/Mold Setup Experience
  • Blueprint Reading
ID:qnkTyx

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