Todays toolmakers are specialists in mechanical engineering

Toolmakers learn how to make use of a wide variety of machinery, equipment, tools and gauges, which enable them to work to very fine tolerances, and they may also be required to design tools and precision equipment. Toolmaking usually suits someone who enjoys manual, mechanical and pratical tasks, good with their hands and has an aptitude for technical work.

For those seeking to become a toolmaker tradesperson, an apprenticeship with an employer is required and completion of a certificate grade lll qualification. An apprenticeship usually takes around three to four years to complete.

Toolmaking means making tools and jigs etc. which are used to produce products. Some common tools can include lathe bits, metal forming rolls, form tools and milling cutters. Toolmaking also includes precision fixturing or machine tools used to manufacture, hold or test products during their fabrication. It is often necessary to fabricate custom tools or modify standard tools, due to the unique nature of a toolmakers work.

Toolmakers fabricate, repair and overhaul standard types of cutting tools such as drills, milling cutters and carbide tools: fixtures and jigs; drilling templates, punching forming and blanking dies, and gauges such as ring, snap, plug and caliper gauges. They perform duties in accordance with general instructions from a supervisor which usually includes detailed drawings, and specifications as to the material to be used and design of the end article/item.

Toolmakers must apply a comprehensive knowledge of and be skilled in using a wide variety of machine shop techniques and practices. Workers at this level should be skilled in planning and laying out work from 3D files, sketches or other work specifications. Applying advanced shop mathematics and handbook formulas to compute dimensions and plan and layout work. Setting up and operating all conventional machine tools and attachments. Selecting proper tools and machine operations. Performing necessary handwork such as filing, scraping grinding and lapping to finish and assemble items.

Knowledge of standard cutting tools is required such as drill, reamers, taps, different types of milling cutters, form tools and various carbide tools. The proper clearance and relief angles required on such tools based on the material to be machined, and the type of grit and bond and size of grinding wheels needed to form and sharpen such tools.

Toolmakers should be familiar with and capable of using numerous types of measuring devices such as squares, height gauges, vernier calipers, protractors, micrometers, vee blocks, parallels, dial indicators, and optical and mechanical comparators to attain accurate dimension and close tolerances.