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Tool Maker Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Leupold and Stevens

Be Seen First

Tool Maker 1

Fremont, CA · On-site

$32 - $36/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Tool Maker 1 Monday-Friday, 6:00 AM to 2:30 PM Base Pay Rate Range of $32-$36 (DOE) Signing Bonuses Starting at $1,500 (DOE) Relocation to Beaverton, OR At Leupold & Stevens we work hard and play ...

New

Signing bonus

Leupold and Stevens

Be Seen First

Tool Maker 1

Fremont, CA · On-site

$32 - $36/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Tool Maker 1 Monday-Friday, 6:00 AM to 2:30 PM Base Pay Rate Range of $32-$36 (DOE) Signing Bonuses Starting at $1,500 (DOE) Relocation to Beaverton, OR At Leupold & Stevens we work hard and play ...

New

Signing bonus

Howmet Aerospace

Tool Maker

Brea, CA · On-site

$32 - $42/hr

At least 5-10 years of related experience working as a tool maker with Carbide Salary: $32-42/hour + Shift Differential and eligibility for annual bonuses 2nd Shift Key Responsibilities: ' Operates ...

Howmet Aerospace

Tool Maker

Brea, CA · On-site

$32 - $42/hr

At least 5-10 years of related experience working as a tool maker with Carbide About Us Howmet Aerospace Inc. (NYSE: HWM), headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is a leading global provider of ...

Howmet Aerospace

Tool Maker

Brea, CA · On-site

$42/hr

At least 5-10 years of related experience working as a tool maker with Carbide About Us Howmet Aerospace Inc. (NYSE: HWM), headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is a leading global provider of ...

Verus Aerospace

Tool Maker

Torrance, CA · On-site

$22 - $38/hr

Position Summary The Tool Maker will operate manual industrial equipment to manufacture and complete forming tools, and fixtures. Essential skills are working knowledge of tool room machinery, above ...

CCS INC

Tool Maker

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$28 - $33/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • PTO

Journeyman Tool & Die Maker certification or equivalent formal apprenticeship * 5+ years of precision machining and tool making experience in a manufacturing environment * Proficiency with manual ...

medplast

Tool Maker

Fremont, CA

$36 - $44/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

As a Tool Maker you will perform advanced mold making, repair, and modification work with minimal supervision. You will support production and engineering by independently executing complex machining ...

medplast

Tool Maker

Fremont, CA

$36 - $44/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

As a Tool Maker you will perform advanced mold making, repair, and modification work with minimal supervision. You will support production and engineering by independently executing complex machining ...

medplast

Tool Maker

Fremont, CA · On-site

$36 - $44/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

As a Tool Maker you will perform advanced mold making, repair, and modification work with minimal supervision. You will support production and engineering by independently executing complex machining ...

Viant

Tool Maker

Fremont, CA · On-site

$36 - $44/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

As a Tool Maker you will perform advanced mold making, repair, and modification work with minimal supervision. You will support production and engineering by independently executing complex machining ...

Howmet Aerospace

Tool Maker-Brea,California

Canyon, CA · On-site

$42/hr

At least 5-10 years of related experience working as a tool maker with Carbide About Us Howmet Aerospace Inc. (NYSE: HWM), headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is a leading global provider of ...

Mason

Tool / Die Maker III

Sylmar, CA · On-site

$26.50 - $33.25/hr

Tool / Die Maker III Tool / Die Maker III Mason welcomes people who share our determination and high standards to join us in doing work that moves the world forward. We design, manufacture, and ...

Mason

Tool / Die Maker III

Lake View Terrace, CA

$30 - $45/hr

Tool / Die Maker III Tool / Die Maker III Mason welcomes people who share our determination and high standards to join us in doing work that moves the world forward. We design, manufacture, and ...

Mason

Tool / Die Maker III

Sylmar, CA · On-site

$30 - $45/hr

Tool / Die Maker III Mason welcomes people who share our determination and high standards to join us in doing work that moves the world forward. We design, manufacture, and market highly engineered ...

Tigre

Tool Maker

Beaumont, CA

$20 - $32/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Tool/Die/Mold Setup Experience * Blueprint Reading ID:qnkTyx

Tigre USA Inc

Tool Maker

Beaumont, CA · On-site

$29 - $32/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Journeyman tool and die certificate required * Significant knowledge of the injection molding process and equipment, PVC and/or CPVC material characteristics * Ability to understand, read, write ...

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All JobsTool Maker JobsTool Maker Jobs in California

Tool Maker information

See California salary details

$15

$29

$38

How much do tool maker jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for tool maker in California is $29.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.14 and $32.50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Do tool makers make good money?

Tool makers typically earn a competitive wage, with salaries varying based on experience, location, and industry. Skilled tool makers who work in manufacturing or aerospace often have higher pay, especially if they hold certifications or operate advanced machinery. Overall, it is considered a well-paying trade with opportunities for advancement.

What job does a tool maker do?

A tool maker designs, fabricates, and repairs tools, dies, and fixtures used in manufacturing processes. They work with metal, use precision measuring instruments, and often require knowledge of machining and blueprint reading to produce high-quality tools efficiently.

What is a tool maker?

Tool Makers are skilled tradespeople who design, build, and repair precision tools, dies, molds, and special guiding and holding devices used in manufacturing. They typically work with metal and other materials to create tools that are essential for producing parts in industries such as automotive, aerospace, and electronics. Tool Makers use a variety of machines, such as lathes, milling machines, and grinders, as well as computer-aided design (CAD) software to ensure tools meet exact specifications. Their work is crucial for maintaining high standards of quality and efficiency in the production process.

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

To thrive as a Tool Maker, you need expertise in precision machining, blueprint reading, and mechanical mathematics, often supported by a technical diploma or apprenticeship in tool and die making. Familiarity with CNC machines, CAD/CAM software, and quality inspection systems is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and effective communication are vital soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure the accurate creation and maintenance of tools, directly impacting manufacturing efficiency and product quality.

How do you become a tool maker?

To become a tool maker, individuals typically complete a high school diploma or equivalent and then pursue a technical or vocational training program in tool and die making or machining. Apprenticeships are common to gain hands-on experience, and proficiency with precision measuring tools, CAD software, and manufacturing processes is essential for success in the field.

What is the difference between Tool Maker vs Machinist?

AspectTool MakerMachinist
CredentialsTypically requires a high school diploma or equivalent, apprenticeship, or technical trainingHigh school diploma or equivalent, technical training or apprenticeship often preferred
Work EnvironmentWorks in machine shops, manufacturing plants, often on custom or specialized toolsWorks in machine shops, manufacturing, or production environments, operating various machine tools
Industry UsageCommonly employed in tool and die shops, manufacturing, aerospace, and automotive industriesWidely used across manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, and industrial sectors

Tool Makers and Machinists both work in manufacturing environments and require technical skills, but Tool Makers focus on designing and building custom tools and dies, while Machinists operate and maintain machine tools to produce parts. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

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

One common challenge Tool Makers encounter is interpreting and adapting to highly specific customer requirements, which may involve tight tolerances or unique material selections. Collaboration with engineers and machinists is often necessary to troubleshoot design issues and ensure the tool functions as intended. Additionally, managing multiple projects simultaneously while maintaining precision and meeting tight deadlines can require strong organizational and communication skills. Continuous learning is important, as new manufacturing technologies and materials may require updated approaches and techniques.
What are the most commonly searched types of Tool Maker jobs in California? The most popular types of Tool Maker jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Tool Maker jobs in California? For Tool Maker jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Tool Maker jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Tool Maker jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Tool Maker jobs? Cities in California with the most Tool Maker job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Tool Maker jobs in CA? For Tool Maker jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Tool Maker jobs near you
Infographic showing various Tool Maker job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,443 per year, or $29.1 per hour.

Tool Maker

Howmet Aerospace

Brea, CA

$32 - $42/hr

Full-time, Other

Re-posted 7 days ago

Howmet Aerospace rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 161 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

48th of 72 rated aerospace companies

Job description

Salary:  $32-42/hour + Shift Differential and eligibility for annual bonuses
2nd Shift

Key Responsibilities:

'         Operates all departmental machine tools and provides machine shop service, expertise, and capability to the entire manufacturing operation.'

'         Constructs, alters, or repairs a wide variety of standard and non-standard developmental and experimental tools, dies, jigs, fixtures, gauges, etc. to close tolerances and exacting set ups.

'         Produces most production dies for cold heading machines.

'         Independently performs the job of Tool Maker in its entirety, operating all of the following typical department, machines and any specialty machines as assigned: Lathes, Surface Grinder, Honing Machine, Hydraulic Press

'         Obtain instructions, sketches, drawings, etc. from leadperson /foreman.

'         Obtains raw material from department stock.

'         Sets up any department machine as needed to produce the work as directed, very exactly and must hold very close tolerance.

'         Replaces or re-sharpens cutting tools as required.

'         Maintains machine and workplace area in a neat and orderly condition on a daily basis, and performs a general machine and work area cleanup once a week.

'         Keeps machine free of chips.

Makes out time, production, and quality reports as required.


Basic Qualifications:

  • High school diploma or GED.

At least 5-10 years of related experience working as a tool maker with Carbide

What Howmet Aerospace employees say

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About Howmet Aerospace

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Howmet Aerospace Inc. (NYSE: HWM), headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is a leading global provider of advanced engineered solutions for the aerospace and transportation industries. The Company's sales for 2021 approximated $5 billion. The Company's primary businesses focus on jet engine components, aerospace fastening systems, titanium structural parts and forged wheels. With nearly 1,150 granted and pending patents, the Company's differentiated technologies promote more fuel efficiency for aircraft and commercial transportation. Howmet is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

Industry

Aviation

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Pittsburgh, PA, US

Year founded

1888

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