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Tool Die Design Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Tempco Manufacturing

Tool & Die Designer

Saint Paul, MN · On-site

$36 - $51/hr

Design and develop tool and die concepts based on manufacturing needs, customer specifications, and production volumes * Create detailed blueprints, 3D models, and flat blank geometry using ...

TruPath

Tool Designer

Mendota Heights, MN · On-site

$36 - $44/hr

Design tool & die concepts, 3D models, blueprints, and flat blanks (SolidWorks/LogoPress/Cadkey knowledge is a plus). * Design punch press tooling, including progressive dies. * Select materials and ...

W3Global Inc.

Designer - Tool & Die

Anoka, MN · On-site

$30 - $50/hr

A modern, growing Tool & Die shop specializing in high-precision metal stamping solutions . The ... High-mix, diverse design projects across industries * Strong collaboration between engineering ...

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Tool Die Design information

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How much do tool die design jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for tool die design in the United States is $28.40, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.00 and $31.49 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the highest paid design job?

In tool die design and related manufacturing fields, senior-level roles such as Tooling Manager or Design Engineer with extensive experience and advanced certifications tend to have the highest salaries. These positions often require expertise in CAD software, manufacturing processes, and leadership skills, and can earn six-figure incomes depending on the industry and location.

What is Tool Die Design?

Tool Die Design is a specialized engineering discipline focused on designing and developing tools, dies, and molds used in manufacturing processes to shape or cut materials into specific forms. Tool and die designers use computer-aided design (CAD) software to create detailed plans and specifications for these critical components. Their work ensures that manufactured parts meet precise quality, efficiency, and safety standards. This role often involves collaborating with engineers, machinists, and production teams to troubleshoot design issues and improve manufacturing workflows.

Are tool and die makers in demand?

Tool and die makers are in steady demand due to their specialized skills in designing and manufacturing precision tools and molds for manufacturing industries. Employment opportunities are often linked to manufacturing sector growth and the need for skilled tradespeople with knowledge of CAD software and machining tools.

What does a tool and die maker make?

A tool and die maker designs, builds, and maintains precision tools, dies, and molds used in manufacturing processes. They create tools for shaping, cutting, and forming metal parts, often working with CNC machines and measuring instruments to ensure accuracy. Their work is essential in producing high-quality components for industries like automotive, aerospace, and consumer goods.

What is the difference between Tool Die Design vs Tool and Die Maker?

AspectTool Die DesignTool and Die Maker
Primary RoleDesigns and plans the tools and dies used in manufacturing processesBuilds, maintains, and repairs tools and dies based on specifications
Skills & CertificationsCAD/CAM proficiency, technical drafting, engineering knowledgeMachining skills, hand tools, blueprint reading, certifications in machining
Work EnvironmentDesign offices, CAD labs, engineering departmentsMachine shops, manufacturing floors, production facilities
Industry UsageUsed by design engineers, tool and die companies, manufacturing firmsUsed by machinists, tool and die shops, manufacturing plants

While Tool Die Design focuses on creating detailed plans and specifications for tools and dies, Tool and Die Makers are responsible for physically constructing and repairing those tools. Both roles require technical skills, but they differ in their primary functions within the manufacturing process.

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

To thrive as a Tool Die Designer, you need strong skills in mechanical design, technical drawing, and an educational background in engineering or manufacturing technology. Proficiency in CAD software (such as SolidWorks or AutoCAD), knowledge of CAM systems, and familiarity with industry standards are crucial. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication help differentiate top professionals in this field. These skills are vital for creating precise, functional tooling that ensures manufacturing efficiency and product quality.

What are some typical challenges faced by Tool Die Designers in collaborating with manufacturing teams?

Tool Die Designers often work closely with manufacturing teams to ensure that their designs are both practical and cost-effective to produce. A common challenge is bridging the gap between theoretical design and real-world manufacturing constraints, such as material availability, machining capabilities, and production timelines. Effective communication and flexibility are essential, as designers must frequently revise their work based on feedback from machinists and production engineers. Building strong relationships across departments helps streamline the process and leads to better outcomes for both design and manufacturing.

How to become a tool die maker?

To become a tool die maker, individuals typically complete a high school diploma or equivalent, then enroll in a technical or vocational program in tool and die making or machining. Apprenticeships or on-the-job training are essential to develop skills in blueprint reading, metalworking, and the use of precision tools, leading to certification or journeyman status in the trade.
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What job categories do people searching Tool Die Design jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Tool Die Design jobs are:
Tool Die Design jobs near you
Infographic showing various Tool Die Design job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 20% Full Time, 7% Temporary, 66% Contract, and 7% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,074 per year, or $28.4 per hour.
Supervisor, Tool & Die Design

Supervisor, Tool & Die Design

OTTO Engineering

Carpentersville, IL • On-site

Other

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

OTTO’s opportunity: Our Supervisor, Tool & Die Design, manages the design process and workflow for a job shop environment, supporting both new and existing customers with tooling design solutions. This role collaborates closely with Sales, Engineering, and the Tool Room to deliver high-quality products and services on time. The position is responsible for developing progressive metal stamping tooling and providing engineering support throughout the lifecycle of customer tooling.

This role requires strong time management skills to produce accurate, high-quality designs under aggressive timelines while simultaneously supporting ongoing tool room projects. Specifically, the Supervisor, Tool & Die Design will: Collaborate with customers, Design Manager, and Tool Room Manager to establish design concepts for progressive dies, compound dies, stage tooling, jigs, and fixtures that meet or exceed customer requirements. Design and develop progressive metal stamping tools, trim dies, fixtures, and gages for new and existing products.

Prepare strip layouts, plan views, bills of materials (BOMs), detail drawings, and related documentation. Create wire EDM blocks, jigs, fixtures, and other components to improve tool room efficiency and productivity. Develop complete tool assembly and component drawings using 3D and 2D design platforms.

Work from engineering models, piece-part drawings, and assemblies to create accurate and manufacturable designs. Order purchased components as required to support tooling builds. Implement engineering changes to existing designs and execute ECNs through company business systems.

Process engineering drawings and models through current PLM and ERP systems. Work directly with the tool room during the build and development of tooling to ensure designs produce parts that meet or exceed customer standards. Provide engineering solutions and technical support to the Sales team.

Report project status, timelines, and risks to management on a regular basis. Collaborate with other designers and tool room staff to achieve high-quality results in time-sensitive situations. Manage in-house and outsourced designers to meet on-time delivery commitments.

Work overtime as required to meet project deadlines. Assists with other related duties as required or assigned.

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