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Tool Maker Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

IMS Gear Georgia, LLC

Tool Maker

Virginia Beach, VA · On-site

$30 - $40/hr

The Tool Maker is assigned to various special projects in support of the manufacturing plant. The role is responsible for machining precision parts that support manufacturing equipment and ensuring ...

L3HHCM20

Tool Maker/ CNC Machinist

Ashburn, VA · On-site

$21 - $28.75/hr

Tool Maker B Job Code: 41610 Job Location: Ashburn, VA Job Schedule: 9/80: Employees work 9 out of every 14 days - totaling 80 hours worked - and have every other Friday off The Tool Maker will be ...

L3Harris Technologies

Tool Maker/ CNC Machinist

Ashburn, VA · On-site

$21 - $28.75/hr

Tool Maker B Job Code: 41610 Job Location: Ashburn, VA Job Schedule: 9/80: Employees work 9 out of every 14 days - totaling 80 hours worked - and have every other Friday off The Tool Maker will be ...

L3 Harris

Tool Maker/ CNC Machinist

Ashburn, VA · On-site

$30.29 - $56.25/hr

Tool Maker B Job Code: 41610 Job Location: Ashburn, VA Job Schedule: 9/80: Employees work 9 out of every 14 days - totaling 80 hours worked - and have every other Friday off The Tool Maker will be ...

L3 Harris

Tool Maker/ CNC Machinist

Ashburn, VA

$56.25/hr

Tool Maker B Job Code: 41610 Job Location: Ashburn, VA Job Schedule: 9/80: Employees work 9 out of every 14 days - totaling 80 hours worked - and have every other Friday off The Tool Maker will be ...

STIHL

Tool & Die Maker A

Virginia Beach, VA · On-site

$44.66/hr

We are seeking a Tool & Die Maker to join the team. With competitive compensation, excellent benefits and exciting growth potential, it is a great time to join the STIHL team! Why You'll Love Working ...

STIHL Inc.

Tool & Die Maker A

Virginia Beach, VA

$44.66/hr

We are seeking a Tool & Die Maker to join the team. With competitive compensation, excellent benefits and exciting growth potential, it is a great time to join the STIHL team! Why You'll Love Working ...

Crownholdings

Tool & Die Maker

Winchester, VA · On-site

$25.25 - $31.75/hr

Reporting directly to the Plant Engineer, the Tool & Die's responsibilities would include, but will not be limited to, the following: * Perform operations including but not limited to turning, facing ...

Crown Holdings, Inc.

Tool & Die Maker

Winchester, VA · On-site

$25.25 - $31.75/hr

Reporting directly to the Plant Engineer, the Tool & Die's responsibilities would include, but will not be limited to, the following: * Perform operations including but not limited to turning, facing ...

THE NEW CAN COMPANY INC

Die Maker

Pulaski, VA · On-site

$22 - $30/hr

Tool Room Supervisor / Plant Manager Department: Tool & Die / Manufacturing Job Summary The Die Maker is responsible for the design, construction, repair, and maintenance of dies, tools, jigs, and ...

Canon Virginia, Inc.

Mold Designer III

Newport News, VA · On-site

$81K - $106K/yr

... Tool Maker plus 7 years mold design experience. - Advance knowledge of Mold Flow software; experience running and crafting mold flow reports a plus. - Proficient with Computer Aided Machining (CAM ...

Canon Virginia, Inc.

Mold Designer III

Newport News, VA · On-site

$81K - $106K/yr

... Tool Maker plus 7 years mold design experience. - Advance knowledge of Mold Flow software; experience running and crafting mold flow reports a plus. - Proficient with Computer Aided Machining (CAM ...

Canon Virginia, Inc.

Mold Designer III

Newport News, VA · On-site

$81K - $106K/yr

... Tool Maker plus 7 years mold design experience. - Advance knowledge of Mold Flow software; experience running and crafting mold flow reports a plus. - Proficient with Computer Aided Machining (CAM ...

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All JobsTool Maker JobsTool Maker Jobs in Virginia

Tool Maker information

See Virginia salary details

$15

$29

$39

How much do tool maker jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for tool maker in Virginia is $29.19, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.24 and $32.64 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 popular job titles related to Tool Maker jobs in Virginia? For Tool Maker jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Tool Maker jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Tool Maker jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Tool Maker jobs in VA? For Tool Maker jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Tool Maker jobs near you
Infographic showing various Tool Maker job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,720 per year, or $29.2 per hour.

Tool Maker

IMS Gear Georgia, LLC

Virginia Beach, VA • On-site

$30 - $40/hr

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

The Tool Maker is assigned to various special projects in support of the manufacturing plant. The role is responsible for machining precision parts that support manufacturing equipment and ensuring tools remain in proper working condition. Key duties include maintaining, repairing, reconditioning, adjusting, and rebuilding tools as needed.

Responsibilities:

Tool Shop Operations

  • Operates tool shop machinery, including lathes, mills, grinders, welders, CNC and EDM equipment.
  • Fully run and program CNC machinery for 3 Haas and the EDM and wire cutting machine.
  • Builds and fabricates custom-designed tooling and automation components from engineering drawings.

Collaboration and Support

  • Works closely with production, automation, production engineers, and set-up operators to ensure tools and project tasks are completed accurately and on time.
  • Performs general tool shop functions as needed.

Job Requirements

Knowledge, skills and abilities

  • Mastercam (CAM) software knowledge required
  • HAAS mill and lathe experience preferred
  • Sinker and wire EDM machining preferred
  • Surface grinder preferred
  • Knowledge of metric system
  • Able to hold tight tolerances 10um
  • Manual mill and lathe
  • Ability to read and interpret blueprints and geometric tolerances

Education and Experience:

  • Minimum of three years of related manufacturing experience.
  • Mechanical certification or equivalent hands-on experience.
  • Journeyman Toolmaker certification a plus, not required.

IMS Gear is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion. We embrace individuals from all backgrounds and provide employment opportunities without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, sexual orientation, or veteran status.

Disclaimer: This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the position. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned at any time with or without notice.