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Toolmaker Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Teksky

Toolmaker

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

$30 - $50/hr

We are seeking a skilled Toolmaker / Mold Maker to join a manufacturing team supporting plastic injection molding operations. This role is responsible for building, repairing, maintaining, and ...

Oak Ridge Tool-Engineering, Inc

Toolmaker

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site

$23 - $29.75/hr

Oak Ridge Tool-Engineering, Inc. is searching for a skilled Toolmaker to build custom tooling and short-run production components. The individual shall be able to read engineering drawings ...

Oak Ridge Tool-Engineering, Inc

Toolmaker

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site

$23 - $29.75/hr

Oak Ridge Tool-Engineering, Inc. is searching for a skilled Toolmaker to build custom tooling and short-run production components. The individual shall be able to read engineering drawings ...

Oak Ridge Tool-Engineering, Inc

Toolmaker

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site

$25.25 - $32.75/hr

Oak Ridge Tool-Engineering, Inc. is searching for a skilled Toolmaker to build custom tooling and short-run production components. The individual shall be able to read engineering drawings ...

Altium Packaging LLC

Toolmaker - 2nd Shift

Sparta, TN · On-site

$21.75 - $28/hr

Location Address: 600 Vista Drive, Sparta, Tennessee 38583 Work Shift: 8hr-2nd Shift 2p-10:30p Sparta (United States of America) A Toolmaker is responsible for the disassembly, assessment, repair ...

nasg

Tooling - Tooling Utility

Portland, TN · On-site

Take completed dies back to the rack once the toolmakers have completed repairs and green tagged the dies. Assist toolmakers as needed with putting dies back together. Maintain & organize die wash ...

Century Mold Co

Tooling Supervisor

Shelbyville, TN · On-site

Supervision of 2 toolmakers, apprentices, and specialists. * Responsible for completion of accurate time sheets for payroll. * Responsible for updating the tool room and building a schedule on a ...

Century Mold Co

Tooling Supervisor

Shelbyville, TN · On-site

Supervision of 2 toolmakers, apprentices, and specialists. Responsible for completion of accurate time sheets for payroll. Responsible for updating the tool room and building a schedule on a daily ...

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All JobsToolmaker JobsToolmaker Jobs in Tennessee

Toolmaker information

See Tennessee salary details

$14

$26

$35

How much do toolmaker jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for toolmaker in Tennessee is $26.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.12 and $29.90 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a toolmaker?

A toolmaker is a machinist who makes precision tools for use in manufacturing. As a toolmaker, responsibilities include reading and interpreting engineering drawings, using a clamp to secure raw materials, and cutting tools to the right shape and size using equipment like mill machines, jig grinders, and lathes. This process of cutting raw materials into a desired shape or size is also known as machining. The advancement of technology through computer-aided design (CAD) means you need to learn new toolmaking technologies to keep up with developments in the industry.

What does a toolmaker do?

A toolmaker is a skilled tradesperson who designs, builds, and repairs precision tools, dies, molds, and special guiding and holding devices used in manufacturing. They work with materials like metal and plastic, using both manual and computer-controlled machinery to create parts that meet exact specifications. Toolmakers often collaborate with engineers and machinists to ensure that tools and components function properly in the production process. Their expertise is crucial for maintaining high standards of quality and efficiency in manufacturing environments.

What skills make successful toolmakers?

To thrive as a Toolmaker, you need a strong background in precision machining, blueprint reading, and mathematics, often supported by an apprenticeship or technical diploma. Familiarity with CNC machines, CAD/CAM software, and measuring instruments is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and effective communication are valuable soft skills that distinguish top performers. These skills ensure the accurate production and maintenance of tools and dies, which is critical to efficient manufacturing processes.

What are some typical challenges a toolmaker might face when working with new or complex tooling designs?

Toolmakers often encounter challenges when working with new or intricate tooling designs, such as interpreting detailed blueprints, ensuring high precision during machining, and troubleshooting unforeseen issues during the assembly or testing phases. Adapting to evolving technology, such as CNC programming or advanced materials, can also be demanding. Collaboration with engineers and production teams is essential to address design adjustments or production constraints, making strong communication skills important for effective problem-solving.

What is the difference between Toolmaker vs Machinist?

AspectToolmakerMachinist
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; technical training or apprenticeshipHigh school diploma or equivalent; technical training or apprenticeship
Work EnvironmentManufacturing shops, tool rooms, machine shopsFactories, machine shops, manufacturing plants
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing, aerospace, automotive, industrial equipmentManufacturing, aerospace, automotive, general machining
Common Search & ComparisonToolmaker vs Machinist

Both Toolmakers and Machinists work in manufacturing environments and often require similar certifications. Toolmakers focus on designing and building precision tools and dies, while Machinists operate and set up machines to produce parts. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find roles aligned with their skills and career goals.

Do toolmakers make good money?

Toolmakers typically earn competitive wages, with salaries varying based on experience, location, and industry. Skilled toolmakers who work with advanced machinery and hold certifications tend to earn higher salaries, often supplemented by overtime and benefits.

Is a toolmaker well paid?

Toolmakers typically earn competitive wages that vary by location, experience, and industry. In the United States, the median annual salary for toolmakers is around $50,000 to $60,000, with experienced professionals earning higher. Skilled toolmakers with certifications and proficiency in CAD/CAM tools tend to have better earning potential.
More about Toolmaker jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Toolmaker jobs in Tennessee?

The most popular types of Toolmaker jobs in Tennessee are:

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For Toolmaker jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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The top searched job categories for Toolmaker jobs in Tennessee are:

What are popular job titles related to Toolmaker jobs in TN?

For Toolmaker jobs in TN, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Toolmaker jobs near you
Infographic showing various Toolmaker job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 98% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $55,587 per year, or $26.7 per hour.

Toolmaker

Teksky

Chattanooga, TN • On-site

$30 - $50/hr

Full-time

This job post has expired 6 days ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

About the Role:

We are seeking a skilled Toolmaker / Mold Maker to join a manufacturing team supporting plastic injection molding operations. This role is responsible for building, repairing, maintaining, and improving molds and tooling to ensure efficient production and high-quality output.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Build, repair, and maintain molds, tooling, dies, jigs, and fixtures.
  • Interpret engineering drawings and fabricate precision mold components.
  • Operate conventional and CNC machine tools, including mills, lathes, grinders, saws, drills, and EDM equipment.
  • Troubleshoot molds during production and perform preventative maintenance.
  • Repair damaged molds and hot runner systems.
  • Manufacture and modify tooling based on engineering drawings.
  • Use precision measuring instruments such as calipers and micrometers.
  • Maintain tooling documentation, maintenance records, and work orders.
  • Support new tooling development and continuous improvement initiatives.
  • Follow safety procedures and maintain a clean, organized work area.

Qualifications:

  • High School Diploma or GED required.
  • Associate degree or equivalent experience preferred.
  • Experience as a Toolmaker, Mold Maker, Tool & Die Maker, or Mold Technician in a manufacturing environment.
  • Experience operating conventional and CNC machining equipment.
  • Ability to read blueprints and engineering drawings.
  • Knowledge of precision measuring tools.
  • Welding experience is a plus.
  • CAD experience (SolidWorks or similar) is preferred.

Preferred Skills:

  • Mold repair and troubleshooting
  • Preventive maintenance
  • CNC machining
  • Manual machining
  • EDM
  • Precision measurement
  • Plastic injection molding
  • Tool & die maintenance
  • Strong problem-solving and communication skills

Physical Requirements:

  • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs.
  • Comfortable working in a manufacturing environment.
  • Ability to stand, bend, and squat throughout the shift.