Toolmaker Resume Example and Template

Toolmaker resumes stand out by demonstrating precision mastery, tool and die design ability, and production volume. Include CNC programming proficiency, GD&T knowledge, manual machining skill, and tolerance achievements.

Employers value toolmakers who can read complex blueprints, program advanced CNC, troubleshoot tool wear, and deliver repeatable precision to tight tolerances.

Also searched as

Senior Toolmaker, Junior Toolmaker

Kevin Miller: Toolmaker

Detroit, Michigan, United States

Summary

11 years precision tool and die manufacturing. Produced 50+ complete dies annually to 0.0005 inch tolerances. Mastered CNC programming, manual grinding, and GD&T application. Mentored 4 junior toolmakers.

Work Experience

Senior Toolmaker, Detroit Precision Tool

May 2019 – Present. 85-person tool and die manufacturing company

• Designed and manufactured 12 complex dies annually to customer specifications.
• Programmed 5-axis CNC mills achieving tolerances to 0.0005 inches.
• Mentored 3 junior toolmakers in manual grinding and surface finish.
• Consulted on tool modifications reducing cycle time 8% on high-volume runs.

Toolmaker, Midwest Tool Manufacturing

Aug 2015 – Apr 2019. 120-person die and mold facility

• Manufactured 40+ dies and punches annually meeting 99.2% delivery schedule.
• Applied GD&T principles ensuring assemblies functioned first-try at customer sites.
• Performed tool grinding and polishing achieving mirror finishes on complex cavities.
• Troubleshot tool wear and recommended design changes extending tool life 22%.

Junior Toolmaker, Heritage Tool and Die

Jan 2013 – Jul 2015. 60-person tool manufacturing shop

• Gained proficiency in manual mill, lathe, and CNC machine operation.
• Learned tool design principles from master toolmaker over 2 years.
• Assisted on 80+ tool builds contributing to learning process.
• Completed tool and die apprenticeship earning journeyperson status.

Education

Macomb Community College

Diploma, Tool and Die Technology. Sep 2012 – May 2013

Skills

CNC programming, Manual machining, Tool design, GD&T application, CAD drafting, Tool grinding, Surface finishing, Tolerance stack-up, Mold troubleshooting, Precision measurement

Languages

English, Polish

Certificates and Awards

• Certified Tool and Die Maker, National Tooling and Machining Association, 2016

Why this look works

Toolmaking demands exacting precision; a sharp, detailed design with clean typography reflects the mastery and exactness toolmakers are known for.

Resume tips for this job

• Lead with tolerance achievements: '0.0005 inch', 'tighter than drawing specifications'.
• Mention die or mold count: '50+ dies annually' shows productivity.
• Include CAD and CNC software names: Solidworks, Mastercam, Fusion 360.
• Show mentoring and knowledge transfer; senior toolmakers lead and teach.

Common questions

How important is a formal tool and die program?

Very important for hired toolmakers. Most employers expect formal training or apprenticeship. Self-taught toolmakers face significant barriers unless they have exceptional portfolio work.

Should I list every CNC machine I've programmed?

No. Focus on the software platforms (Mastercam, Solidworks CAM) and machine types (5-axis mills, EDM wire). Specific machine models matter less than showing you can adapt to new equipment.

Edit this resume in the builder

The person, employers and numbers in this example are fictional, written to show what a strong resume for this job looks like.