Toolmaker
Career outlook for toolmaker
UK Salary Ranges
Entry-level
£15,000
£15,000
Experienced
£33,000
£33,000
Currently employed in Scotland
Information is unavailable
Salary information is provided by the "National Careers Service". "Oxford Economics" supplies job forecasts and employment figures. Due to COVID-19 the jobs market is constantly changing. Some of the information may not reflect the current situation.
What's it like?
As a toolmaker, you would be amongst the most highly skilled workers in manufacturing. You would make precision tools like jigs, dies and moulds that are used by engineering craftspeople. They would use the tools you have made to make products such as car parts.
You would work mainly with metals, alloys and composite materials, known as 'stocks' or castings.
You would:
- Work with 2D and 3D computer aided design and manufacturing software (CAD/CAM)
- Mark out the tool design on the 'stock' or casting, following engineering drawings
- Cut and shape the part using a combination of hand-operated and computerised tools
- Check the finished item’s size with precision measuring instruments
- Look after machinery
Working conditions
Hours
Environment
UK employment status
Full-time
100%
Part-time
0%
Self employed
0%
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Find a jobTop skills
Here are some of the skills needed for this job. Sign in to see how your skills match up.
- Adaptability
- Taking responsibility
- Managing resources
- Developing a plan
- Concentrating
- Attention to detail
- Innovative
- Designing
- Creative
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Foundation Apprenticeships
Choosing a Foundation Apprenticeship as one of your subjects in S5 and S6 can help you get a head start with this type of job.
You'll get an SCQF level 6 qualification (the same level as a Higher) plus valuable work placement experience and skills you can't learn in a classroom.
Interested? Find out what's on offer at your school on Apprenticeships.scot.
Qualifications
Entry to the job is usually through a practical engineering apprenticeship.
Entry requirements for a Modern Apprenticeship vary but in this sector many employers require qualifications at SCQF level 4/5 and or relevant work-based qualifications such as a Scottish Vocational Qualification in Engineering (SVQ level 3/4).
You may have to sit an entry test to see if you are suitable for this work.
Useful subjects
- English
- Maths
- Science
- Technologies subjects such as engineering science or practical metalwork
You will also need
- Good eyesight
- General fitness
Helpful to have
Qualifications and experience that show practical skills and an interest in working with tools and machinery such as Skills for Work Construction Engineering (SCQF level 3) or Engineering Skills (SCQF level 4).