Tool and Die Makers Salary 2025: $64,050 Median, Outlook & How to Become One
Tool and Die Makers earn a median annual salary of $64,050, according to the latest BLS data. The top 10% make over $92,680, while the bottom 10% earn around $44,680. With employment projected to shrink by 10.8% from 2024 to 2034, this skilled trade offers stability yet faces headwinds. Still, roughly 4,700 openings each year come from retirements and turnover.
How much Tool and Die Makers earn
The national median salary is $64,050 as of May 2024 (BLS OEWS). Mean hourly wage is about $31.00. Entry-level workers start near $44,680, while experienced makers in high-demand industries can surpass $92,680.
Pay varies widely by industry. Those in aerospace parts manufacturing often command higher wages, while general machine shops pay closer to the median. Unionized shops can also boost take-home pay.
Pay by state
Top pay goes to Tool and Die Makers in Washington, with an average annual wage of $109,390. Kansas ($83,890), Maine ($79,910), Connecticut ($77,540), and California ($77,030) round out the five highest-paying states.
At the other end, New Mexico ($47,960), Louisiana ($46,950), and West Virginia ($46,190) have the lowest average salaries. Cost of living differences partially explain the spread, but the wage gap is significant.
How to become a Tool and Die Maker
Most employers require a high school diploma or equivalent plus completion of a formal apprenticeship or postsecondary training in tool and die technology.
- Complete a 4- to 5-year apprenticeship combining on-the-job training and classroom instruction.
- Alternatively, earn an associate degree from a technical college in tool and die design or precision machining.
- Optional certifications from NIMS (National Institute for Metalworking Skills) can improve job prospects.
- Employers look for strong math, blueprint reading, and computer-aided design (CAD) skills.
Job outlook
Employment of Tool and Die Makers is projected to decline 10.8% from 2024 to 2034, a loss of about 6,200 jobs. Automation and 3D printing are reducing demand for traditional tooling. However, around 4,700 job openings per year are expected as experienced workers retire.
Makers who specialize in high-precision work for medical devices, aerospace, or defense will have the best prospects. Geographic mobility also helps—states like Washington and Kansas offer higher pay and steadier demand.
Frequently asked questions
What is the salary for a Tool and Die Maker in 2025?
The median annual salary is $64,050, with a range of $44,680 to $92,680 according to BLS data.
Is Tool and Die Maker a dying trade?
Employment is declining by 10.8% through 2034 due to automation, but retirement creates ~4,700 openings per year.
How long does it take to become a Tool and Die Maker?
Most apprenticeships last 4 to 5 years. Alternatively, a 2-year associate degree plus on-the-job training can lead to entry-level roles.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Tool and Die Makers data.