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Tool Maker Apprentice Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Laborup

Tool & Die Maker

La Grange, IL

$33 - $38/hr

Apprenticeship training available Shifts * 1st Shift: 7:00 AM - 3:30 PM * 2nd Shift: 3:30 PM - 12 ... Certified Journeyman Tool Maker is welcome, but strictly not required. Benefits * Health, dental ...

Laborup

Tool & Die Maker

La Grange, IL · On-site

$33 - $38/hr

Apprenticeship training available Shifts * 1st Shift: 7:00 AM - 3:30 PM * 2nd Shift: 3:30 PM - 12 ... Certified Journeyman Tool Maker is welcome, but strictly not required. Benefits * Health, dental ...

Eaton

Tool and Die Apprentice

Carol Stream, IL · On-site

$22/hr

Eaton's Carol Stream facility is seeking motivated candidates to join the Apprentice Tool & Die Maker program.This is a structured, long-term career development opportunity designed to prepare ...

Laborup

Tool & Die Maker

La Grange, IL

$33 - $38/hr

Apprenticeship training available Shifts * 1st Shift: 7:00 AM - 3:30 PM * 2nd Shift: 3:30 PM - 12 ... Certified Journeyman Tool Maker is welcome, but strictly not required. Benefits * Health, dental ...

Laborup

Tool & Die Maker

La Grange, IL · On-site

$33 - $38/hr

Apprenticeship training available Shifts * 1st Shift: 7:00 AM - 3:30 PM * 2nd Shift: 3:30 PM - 12 ... Certified Journeyman Tool Maker is welcome, but strictly not required. Benefits * Health, dental ...

Wiegel

Tool and Die Apprentice

Wood Dale, IL

$18 - $20/hr

Department of Labor and transition into a full-time Journeyman Tool and Die Maker position at Wiegel. Program Overview * Five-year apprenticeship program * 10,000 paid hours of on-the-job training at ...

G&W Electric

Senior Tool Maker

Bolingbrook, IL · On-site

$32 - $39/hr

Tool Design and Development: * Create detailed design specifications for new tools, jigs, fixtures, and molds. * Utilize CAD (Computer-Aided Design) software to develop accurate and efficient tool ...

Manor Tool

Tool and Die Maker

Schiller Park, IL · On-site

$30 - $40/hr

We're hiring a self-motivated Tool and Die Maker to join our team.If you know your way around ... Support our apprentice program and be a willing participant in the training of our future ...

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All JobsTool Maker Apprentice JobsTool Maker Apprentice Jobs in Chicago, IL

Tool Maker Apprentice information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$14

$27

$40

How much do tool maker apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for tool maker apprentice in Chicago, IL is $27.17, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.81 and $33.65 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a tool maker apprentice?

A Tool Maker Apprentice is an individual who is learning the skills and techniques needed to fabricate, maintain, and repair precision tools, dies, and special guiding and holding devices used in manufacturing. Apprentices work under the supervision of experienced tool makers, gaining hands-on experience with machining, blueprint reading, and quality control processes. The apprenticeship typically combines on-the-job training with classroom instruction, preparing individuals for a career as a skilled tool maker in industries like automotive, aerospace, and manufacturing.

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

To thrive as a Tool Maker Apprentice, you need a solid understanding of mechanical principles, blueprint reading, and basic machining skills, often supported by a high school diploma or technical training. Familiarity with CNC machines, CAD software, and precision measuring tools is typically required. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help apprentices excel in this hands-on environment. These skills and qualities are crucial for producing precise tools, maintaining safety standards, and supporting efficient manufacturing operations.

What are some common challenges faced by tool maker apprentices during their training period?

Tool Maker Apprentices often encounter challenges such as mastering precise measurement techniques, learning to read complex technical drawings, and developing proficiency with both manual and CNC machinery. The learning curve can be steep, especially when adapting to strict tolerances and quality standards required in tool making. Effective communication with experienced toolmakers and collaborating with engineers are also important, as apprentices must seek guidance and feedback to improve their skills and ensure their work meets production needs.

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

AspectTool Maker ApprenticeTool and Die Maker
CredentialsTypically requires a high school diploma or equivalent; apprenticeship programsTrade certification or apprenticeship; specialized training
Work EnvironmentManufacturing shops, training settingsTool and die shops, manufacturing plants
Job FocusLearning to create and repair tools, molds, and fixturesDesigning, building, and maintaining complex dies and molds

While both roles involve working with tools and molds, a Tool Maker Apprentice is in training to develop foundational skills, whereas a Tool and Die Maker is a skilled professional responsible for complex die and mold manufacturing. The apprentice role is entry-level, focusing on learning, while the Tool and Die Maker role requires experience and specialized expertise.

What are the most commonly searched types of Tool Maker jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Tool Maker jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Tool Maker Apprentice jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Tool Maker Apprentice jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Tool Maker Apprentice jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Tool Maker Apprentice jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Tool Maker Apprentice jobs near you
Infographic showing various Tool Maker Apprentice job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,521 per year, or $27.2 per hour.

Tool and Die Maker Apprentice

OTTO Engineering

Carpentersville, IL

$18/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

Tool and Die Maker Apprentice

Why join OTTO Engineering?

  • At OTTO, we don't just manufacture products - we engineer mission-critical solutions with precision and pride. Our Tech Center showcases cutting-edge technology with complete engineering capabilities for designing, building, debugging and maintaining short run tooling, to high speed, large volume stamping dies.
  • As a core value, we focus on delivering for our customers through innovative technology, superior quality, value, and responsiveness … as a result, our growth continues!
  • Employees are our greatest asset, which is why we share our company's profits to celebrate our collective success.
  • As a privately-owned company, we are proud to invest significantly in our community and in our own growth, focusing on long-term business success.
  • We are proudly American!

Specifically, we are seeking …

  • A willingness to excel in the machining / tool and die trade
  • Completion of an industrial technology high school program or equivalent
  • Good communication and organizational skills

Our Tool and Die Maker Apprentice will learn about metal stamping, die set-up, use all manual machines such as saws, mills, drill presses, grinder, lathes, wire EDM, and CNC milling.

The Apprenticeship Program consists of a three-year classroom (during the evening) and hands-on work (during the day) experience. The coursework will be taught by faculty through the Technology and Manufacturing Association (TMA) located in Schaumburg, IL and the hands-on work experience will be completed at the OTTO Tech Center.

The Tool and Die Maker Apprentice will:

  • Operate Tool Room equipment
  • Do maintenance on machines
  • Build and assemble new tools
  • Interpret tooling prints
  • SPC
  • Keep a clean and safe work area
  • Understand the operation of the press
  • Assist with other related duties as required or assigned

About you - What you'll bring to the table:

  • High school diploma
  • Completion of an industrial technology high school program or equivalent
  • Consistent attendance
  • Attention to neat appearance
  • Willingness to excel in the machining trade
  • Availability for nonstandard or extended work schedule
  • Good communication and organizational skills
  • Reach heights that may require a stepladder
  • Lift equipment up to 50 lbs.
  • Must be able to work in a quick paced environment

What OTTO offers for this specific position:

  • Hourly rate: $18.00 per hour
  • OTTO will pay for the TMA training and education.
  • Profit Sharing Bonus - OTTO believes that it's fair to share the profits that the employees help to make; profit sharing is distributed to employees twice a year. OTTO's profit sharing plan is paid at the discretion of the company and is not a guaranteed bonus or any part of a compensation plan.
  • Vacation: five days after 30 days of employment and 80 hours at 1 year - vacation time is earned on the anniversary date.

OTTO's Benefits:

Health:

Medical Insurance-

  • HMO Plan
  • Standard PPO Plan
  • Enhanced PPO Plan
  • High Deducible PPO Plan
  • FSA, LFSA, and HSA

Dental Insurance-

  • Base Plan
  • Buy-Up Plan

Vision Insurance

401(k) with a company match

Life insurance:

  • Life/AD&D
  • Voluntary Life/AD&D
  • Short-Term Disability
  • Long-Term Disability

10 paid holidays

Company picnic

Holiday party

AND numerous OTTO celebrations throughout the year!

To review all of OTTO's available opportunities, please visit our career page by clicking on the link below:

https://otto-engineering-inc.breezy.hr/

OTTO Engineering is an Equal Opportunity Employer: Disability/Veteran

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Request for Assistance / Reasonable Accommodation:

If you are a qualified individual with a disability or a disabled veteran, please let us know if you require a reasonable accommodation to complete any part of the online application process. You may request a reasonable accommodation if you are unable or limited in your ability to access job openings or apply for a job on this site as a result of your disability.

If you need an alternative method for applying, please contact OTTO Engineering via telephone at 847-428-7171 or email at HRDepartment @ ottoexcellence.com

These contact tools may be used only by individuals with a disability for accommodation requests; please do not inquire as to the status of an application.

OTTO Engineering does not accept unsolicited resumes from third party recruiters, agencies, or similar organizations; any submissions will not be honored.