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Toolmaker Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

This position requires a minimum of five years of toolmaker and CNC programming experience and/or training. * Must be available for all shifts . Must be able to work overtime and weekends as the ...

Toolmaker/CNC Programmer

Hampton, VA · On-site

$28.68 - $31.86/hr

This position requires a minimum of five years of toolmaker and CNC programming experience and/or training. * Must be available for all shifts . Must be able to work overtime and weekends as the ...

This position requires a minimum of five years of toolmaker and CNC programming experience and/or training. * Must be available for all shifts . Must be able to work overtime and weekends as the ...

This position requires a minimum of five years of toolmaker and CNC programming experience and/or training. * Must be available for all shifts . Must be able to work overtime and weekends as the ...

This position requires a minimum of five years of toolmaker and CNC programming experience and/or training. * Must be available for all shifts . Must be able to work overtime and weekends as the ...

$31.86/hr

This position requires a minimum of five years of toolmaker and CNC programming experience and/or training. * Must be available for all shifts . Must be able to work overtime and weekends as the ...

Model Shop Toolmaker II

Radford, VA

$24.75 - $31/hr

Work Model: This is a fully onsite role, with work performed at your designated Regal Rexnord office. _____ ESSENTIAL DUTIES and RESPONSIBILITIES * * Perform all duties of the Model Shop Specialist ...

Possesses a complete set of toolmaker skills with all shop equipment (milling, lathe, precision grinding, polishing, and fitting) and able to make part to print Smoothes flat and contoured surfaces ...

Possesses a complete set of toolmaker skills with all shop equipment (milling, lathe, precision grinding, polishing, and fitting) and able to make part to print Smoothes flat and contoured surfaces ...

Machinist

Roanoke, VA

$18.75 - $25.50/hr

Must be comfortable with on-the-job training, cross-training and training other toolmakers * Must be able to work as a team player as well as independently, exploring and sharing ways to improve ...

This position requires a minimum of 5 years of toolmaker, CNC programming, & Injection Die/Mold maintenance experience and/or training. * Employees must be legally authorized to work in the United ...

Toolmaker information

See Virginia salary details

$15

$29

$39

How much do toolmaker jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for toolmaker 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.

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

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 job does a toolmaker do?

A toolmaker designs, creates, and maintains precision tools, dies, and molds used in manufacturing processes. They work with metalworking machines, read technical drawings, and ensure tools meet specifications, often requiring skills in machining, measurement, and quality control.

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.

Are Toolmakers well paid?

Toolmakers typically earn competitive wages, with salaries varying based on experience, location, and industry. Skilled toolmakers who work with advanced machinery or hold certifications often receive higher pay. Overall, the profession offers solid compensation compared to many manufacturing roles.

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.

How much does a toolmaker earn per month?

A toolmaker's monthly earnings typically range from $3,000 to $5,000, depending on experience, location, and industry. Skilled toolmakers with certifications and proficiency in CAD/CAM tools tend to earn higher wages, especially in manufacturing and industrial settings.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Toolmakers typically do not earn $4,000 a week without specialized experience or certifications. High-paying roles that can reach this level without a degree include skilled trades such as electricians, plumbers, or HVAC technicians, especially with overtime or union benefits. These jobs often require technical training or apprenticeships rather than formal college degrees.

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 are the most commonly searched types of Toolmaker jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Toolmaker jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Toolmaker jobs in Virginia? For Toolmaker jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Toolmaker jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Toolmaker jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Toolmaker jobs in VA? For Toolmaker jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Toolmaker job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $60,720 per year, or $29.2 per hour.
Toolmaker/CNC Programmer

$31.86/hr

Other

Re-posted 16 days ago


Howmet Aerospace rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 158 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

45th of 61 rated aerospace companies


Job description

This opening is with Howmet Aerospace – a world leader in investment casting of superalloys, aluminum and titanium primarily for jet aircraft and industrial gas turbine markets. For more information about Howmet Aerospace, visit us online at www.howmet.com.

Howmet has challenging opportunities for individuals who are excited to engage with us in growing our business. Join us where you will be part of a dedicated team to manufacture high tech products, safely, accurately, and efficiently, you will perform a variety of hands-on operations in accordance with standardized processes within customer specifications.

Howmet is currently looking for Tool Maker(s) to join our Industrial Gas Turbine (IGT) group in Hampton, Virginia. The available shift hours are 1st shift, M-F 7am-3pm and 2nd shift, M-F 3pm-11pm. Training is 1st shift, M-F 7am-3pm.

New Hire Starting Rate: $28.68 p/hr.; After 6 months: $31.86 p/hr.

This position will receive an hourly “shift premium” of $1.00 p/hr. while assigned to an off shift.

Job Summary: The Tool Maker will analyze specifications, lay out metal stock, set up and operate machine tools, and fit and assemble parts to fabricate and repair wax injection molds, metalworking dies, jigs and fixtures, gauges, and machinists' hand tools.

Essential Functions & Job Responsibilities:

  • Ability to read and follow the information on work instructions.
  • Record data either manually or by computer as required.
  • Studies specifications, such as blueprints, sketches, models, or descriptions and visualize product to determine materials. required and machines to be used to fabricate parts.
  • Computes dimension, plan layout, and determine assembly method and sequence of operations.
  • Measures, marks, and scribes metal stock for machining.
  • Sets up and operates machine tools, such as lathes, milling machine, and grinder to machine parts and verifies conformance of machined parts to specifications.
  • Lifts machined parts and positions and secure parts on surface plate or worktable.
  • Smooth flat and contoured surfaces and fits and assembles parts together into assemblies and mechanisms.
  • Verifies dimensions, alignments, and clearances.
  • Heat-treat tools or parts.
  • Examines new or previously used dies, tools, jigs, and fixtures, and recommends design modifications regarding construction and function of part.
  • Develops specifications from general descriptions for specialty tools and draws or sketches design of product.
  • Must be detail oriented and possess the ability to machine parts with tight tolerances.
  • Must comply with all company attendance policies and guidelines; this includes, but is not limited to, regular attendance and occasional overtime.

Skills and Abilities:

  • Ability to read and interpret documents, such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals. Ability to write routine reports and correspondence. Ability to speak effectively before groups of customers or employees of organization.
  • Ability to work with mathematical concepts, such as fundamentals of plane, solid geometry and trigonometry. Ability to apply concepts, such as fractions, percentages, ratios, and proportions to practical situations.
  • Ability to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of concrete variables in situations where only limited standardization exists. Ability to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram, or scheduled form.
  • Ability to setup, program, and operate CNC machines.
  • Ability to create CAD models and drawings to use with CAM software.

Equipment Used: Vertical milling machine, Bridgeport EZ Trax/Acu-Rite milling machine, tree journeyman CNC milling machine, personal computer, engine lathe, band saw, radial arm drill press, floor drill, pedestal grinder, surface grinder, precision tool grinder, abrasive cutoff saw, bridge crane heat treat oven, welding machine, acetylene torch, air grinders, power tools, and hand tools.


Basic Qualifications:

  • An application must include a resume and two professional references for review and consideration.
  • This position requires a minimum of high school diploma or GED certificate.
  • This position requires a minimum of five years of toolmaker and CNC programming experience and/or training.
  • Must be available for all shifts. Must be able to work overtime and weekends as the schedule varies depending on site operational needs; flexibility is required.
  • Employees must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Verification of employment eligibility will be required at the time of hire. Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.
  • This position entails access to export-controlled items and employment offers are conditioned upon an applicant's ability to lawfully obtain access to such items.

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