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Toolmaker Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

KMC Stampings is a premier metal fabricator offering engineering and tooling expertise driven by continuous improvement. With over 115 years in southeastern WI, we still offer a family feel with a ...

The Toolmaker/Moldmaker Apprentice is responsible for working with the lead mold maker to assist in building new tooling per CAD or detailed prints, evaluate, maintain, and repair existing molds and ...

Machinist

Sheboygan, WI ยท On-site

$22 - $28/hr

Oral and written communication skills sufficient to work with toolmakers, team leaders and other management * Experience with AutoCAD a plus Salary Description $22-28/hour

Programmer

Menomonee Falls, WI ยท On-site

$26.50 - $36.50/hr

The Programmer collaborates with design engineers, toolmakers, and machinists to ensure efficient and accurate production of parts in a Tool & Die environment. ESSENTIAL JOB DUTIES: The individual in ...

Showing results 41-60

Toolmaker information

See Wisconsin salary details

$15

$29

$39

How much do toolmaker jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for toolmaker in Wisconsin is $29.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.72 and $33.22 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

Is a toolmaker well paid?

Toolmakers typically earn competitive wages that vary by location, experience, and industry. According to industry data, the median annual salary for a toolmaker in the United States is around $50,000 to $60,000, with experienced professionals earning higher. Certifications and proficiency with CAD/CAM tools can also influence earning potential.

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, such as lathes and grinders, and often require skills in blueprint reading and metal fabrication. Toolmakers typically work in manufacturing environments and may need certifications in machining or manufacturing technology.

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 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 or hold certifications often have higher earning potential. Overall, the profession offers solid compensation for those with technical skills and precision craftsmanship.

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 Wisconsin? The most popular types of Toolmaker jobs in Wisconsin are:
What are popular job titles related to Toolmaker jobs in Wisconsin? For Toolmaker jobs in Wisconsin, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Wisconsin are hiring for Toolmaker jobs? Cities in Wisconsin with the most Toolmaker job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Toolmaker jobs in WI? For Toolmaker jobs in WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Toolmaker job openings in Wisconsin as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 15% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $61,818 per year, or $29.7 per hour.

2nd Shift Tool Maker Trainee (Dept 761)

Milwaukee Valve

Prairie Du Sac, WI โ€ข On-site

$24.50 - $31.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 28 days ago


Job description

Milwaukee Valve Company is looking for a 2nd Shift Toolmaker Trainee to join our Prairie Du Sac, WI team in Department 761.
All offers of employment by Milwaukee Valve Company, LLC. are contingent upon successful completion of a pre-employment drug screen, blood test, physical capabilities test, and background check, all with acceptable results. Applicants are responsible scheduling and completing the required drug screen, blood test, and physical capabilities test within 7 calendar days of offer acceptance.
All offers of employment made by Milwaukee Valve are contingent upon successfully completing our required drug screen and physical capabilities tests.
Established in 1901, Milwaukee Valve manufactures valves for a variety of industries including Industrial, Commercial, Fire Protection, Marine and the dry bulk hauling industries. Our products have been installed on every U.S. Navy ship built for the last 50 years.
Our heritage, our people, and our passion is to be the best, and Milwaukee Valve is proud of its engineering excellence and its employees who take pride and dedication in their work. In return, Milwaukee Valve offers an excellent benefit package, competitive wages, and promotional opportunities including Health, Dental, Life and Disability Insurance options, Flex Spending, 401K with employer match, tuition assistance, paid time off, and shift premiums. For more information please visit:
Our Homepage
Modern Machining Centers Tour
Employee Testimonial Commercial
โ€ข Learn the operation and setup of various types of tool making machines producing tooling and machined parts.
โ€ข Must be able to solder/braze tooling, sharpen, and form grind all shop tooling.
โ€ข Requires the ability to comprehend verbal/written instructions.
โ€ข Requires the ability to comprehend/interpret blueprints and specifications.
โ€ข Knowledge of micrometers, calipers, fixed gauges, optical comparator, pre-setter and all other measuring equipment.
โ€ข Requires the maintenance of all tool room machines including oil and lubrication.
โ€ข Maintain cleanliness and safety in a prescribed manner.
โ€ข All work subject to final inspection.
โ€ข This individual must have Qty. 1, 0-1-inch micrometer, Qty. 1, 1-2-inch micrometer, and Qty. 1, 0-6-inch caliper, screwdriver set, wrench set, adjustable wrench, pliers, hammer, and a lockable toolbox.
โ€ข This individual must be able to lift 30-40 lbs., frequently unassisted. 70 lbs. occasionally, with or without assistance.
โ€ข This individual must work with the Tool Grinder Trainee, and the Tool Grinder.
โ€ข Other duties may also be assigned.
Additional Requirements - To perform the job successfully, an individual should demonstrate the following requirements and competencies.
Quality - Demonstrates accuracy and thoroughness; Looks for ways to improve and promote quality; Applies feedback to improve performance; Monitors own work to ensure quality.
Quantity - Meets productivity standards; Completes work in timely manner; Strives to increase productivity; Works quickly.
Safety and Security- Observes safety and security procedures; Determines appropriate action beyond guidelines; Reports potentially unsafe conditions; Uses equipment and
materials properly.
Attendance/Punctuality - Is consistently at work and present at his/her workstation and ready to begin working at their scheduled time.
Dependability - Follows instructions, responds to management direction; Takes responsibility for own actions. Consistently demonstrates a solid performance in all aspects of his/her work.
Qualifications - To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Education and/or Experience - High school diploma or general education degree (GED); or one to three months related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
Language Skills - Ability to read and comprehend simple instructions, short correspondence, and memos. Ability to write simple correspondence. Ability to effectively present information in one-on-one and small group situations to customers, clients, and other employees of the organization.
Mathematical Skills - Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals. Ability to compute rate, ratio, and percent and to draw and interpret bar graphs.
Reasoning Ability - Ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out detailed but uninvolved written or oral instructions. Ability to deal with problems involving a few concrete variables in standardized situations.
Physical Demands - The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential
functions.
Work Environment - The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly exposed to moving mechanical parts. The employee is frequently exposed to fumes or airborne particles. The noise level is usually loud.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.