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Tool Maker Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Rockville sign company

Sign Maker

Rockville, MD · On-site

$26 - $34/hr

Paid time off Job Summary The Sign Maker is a professional, self-motivated team player with great ... Expertise in using Adobe Design tool suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, etc.) * Experience with RIP ...

AHU Technologies Inc

Tool and Die Makers

Washington, DC · On-site

$35 - $45/hr

Blueprint Analysis: Study specifications, engineering blueprints, and tool orders to plan work. * Design & Layout: Draw preliminary sketches; prepare layout and detail drawings. * Strategy ...

AHU Technologies, Inc.

Tool and Die Makers

Washington, DC · On-site

$35 - $45/hr

Study specifications, engineering blueprints, and tool orders to plan work. * Design & Layout: Draw preliminary sketches; prepare layout and detail drawings. * Strategy Development: Develop efficient ...

Home Depot

Repair and Tool Technician

Bowie, MD

$19.75 - $21.75/hr

Repair and Tool Technicians are responsible for the evaluation and repair of small engines, outdoor power equipment and handheld electrical devices. This position makes equipment recommendations and ...

Home Depot

Repair and Tool Technician

Ellicott City, MD · On-site

$19.50/hr

Repair and Tool Technicians are responsible for the evaluation and repair of small engines, outdoor power equipment and handheld electrical devices. This position makes equipment recommendations and ...

Home Depot

Repair and Tool Technician

Upper Marlboro, MD · On-site

$20.25 - $22.25/hr

Repair and Tool Technicians are responsible for the evaluation and repair of small engines, outdoor power equipment and handheld electrical devices. This position makes equipment recommendations and ...

Home Depot

Repair and Tool Technician

Woodbridge, VA

$20.25 - $22.25/hr

Repair and Tool Technicians are responsible for the evaluation and repair of small engines, outdoor power equipment and handheld electrical devices. This position makes equipment recommendations and ...

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All JobsTool Maker JobsTool Maker Jobs in Washington

Tool Maker information

See Washington salary details

$17

$33

$44

How much do tool maker jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for tool maker in Washington is $33.35, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $28.85 and $37.31 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 Washington?

The most popular types of Tool Maker jobs in Washington are:

What are popular job titles related to Tool Maker jobs in Washington?

For Tool Maker jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Tool Maker jobs in Washington look for?

The top searched job categories for Tool Maker jobs in Washington are:

What cities in Washington are hiring for Tool Maker jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Tool Maker job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Tool Maker jobs in WA?

For Tool Maker jobs in WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Tool Maker jobs near you
Infographic showing various Tool Maker job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,366 per year, or $33.3 per hour.

Tool Maker/ CNC Machinist

L3HHCM20

Ashburn, VA • On-site

$21 - $28.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 8 days ago

Job description

Job Title: 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

Job Description:

The Tool Maker will be responsible for the programming, setup and operation of CNC machine tools to produce prototype and production parts in a rapid-paced environment. A broad range of experience with manual and CNC machine tools, shop operations, tooling, materials and inspection is desired. The successful candidate will have strong interpersonal skills and will be expected to coordinate with engineering, manufacturing, and quality control within Unmanned Systems to accomplish program goals.

Essential Functions:

  • Familiarity with MAZAK Variaxis 1600's machine

  • Proficient in the independent setup and operation of 3-axis or similar commercial grade CNC milling machines to include fixturing (vise and sub-plate) and tooling

  • Proficient in the ability to read and interpret drawings with a thorough understanding of Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing per ANSI Y 14.5

  • Proficient in the use of basic inspection equipment to check machined parts per ANSI Y 14.5

  • Experience with machining a broad range of materials including aluminum, superalloys, engineering plastics and composites

  • Proficient in the use of manual machine tools (mill, lathe, drill press, band saw) to support CNC machine setup and operation

  • Maintain a clean and organized work area and follow established safety protocols and standard operating procedures

  • Collaborate with engineering, quality, and production teams to resolve technical issues and improve machining processes

  • Document job setups and recommend process improvements to reduce setup time and increase repeatability

  • Safely complete all physical activities required in a manufacturing environment including, but not limited to:

    • Move, transport, position and/or remove 25-50 pounds on a regular basis

    • Move, be stationary, traverse, and reach for prolonged periods of time on a regular basis

    • Ability to seize, grasp, turn, hold, and operate manufacturing tools and equipment

    • Willingness and ability to work in a manufacturing environment with regular exposure to moving mechanical parts, dust, fumes, chemicals, and loud noises

Qualifications:

  • Requires a High School Diploma or equivalent and a minimum of 4 years of prior relevant experience or 2 years post-Secondary/Associates Degree with 0 to 2 years of prior related experience.

Preferred Additional Skills:

  • Minimum of 5 years of experience in CNC machining and MasterCAM; formal apprenticeship and training.

  • Proficient with the independent setup and operation of 4 and 5 axis CNC milling machines and controls. 

  • Proficient with independent programming of 4 and 5-axis CNC machines.

  • Proficient with the independent setup and operation of CNC lathes or turning centers including conversational programming, tooling and machine setup.

In compliance with pay transparency requirements, the salary range for this role in Virginia (Greater D.C. area) is $30.29- $56.25. This is not a guarantee of compensation or salary, as final offer amount may vary based on factors including but not limited to experience and geographic location. L3Harris also offers a variety of benefits, including health and disability insurance, 401(k) match, flexible spending accounts, EAP, education assistance, parental leave, paid time off, and company-paid holidays. The specific programs and options available to an employee may vary depending on date of hire, schedule type, and the applicability of collective bargaining agreements.

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