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Tool and Die Maker Resume Examples & Templates

Looking to showcase your expertise? Our tool and die maker resume examples will help you emphasize precision, problem-solving, and technical skills that attract potential employers.

Gabriela Hernandez
by Gabriela Hernandez CPRW, Career Advice Writer
Last Updated: November 14, 2025

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Ming Williams

Northwood, OH 43625
(555)555-5555
Ming.Williams@example.com

Skills

  • Die design optimization
  • Metal fabrication
  • Precision inspections
  • CAD software proficiency
  • Tool machining expertise
  • Quality control analysis
  • Process workflow improvement
  • Team leadership in manufacturing

Languages

  • Spanish - Beginner (A1)
  • German - Beginner (A1)
  • French - Beginner (A1)

Professional Summary

Experienced Tool and Die Maker with 4 years refining precision manufacturing processes. Expertise in die design, CAD tooling, and workflow optimization enhanced production efficiency. Proven leadership in mentoring and cost savings initiatives.

Work History

Tool and Die Maker
Precision Engineering Works - Northwood, OH
October 2023 - October 2025

  • Designed and improved 15+ dies yearly, reducing downtime
  • Performed inspections, improving accuracy by 25%
  • Trained 5 apprentices, elevating productivity by 20%

Metal Fabrication Specialist
CraftTech Industries - Cleveland, OH
February 2021 - September 2023

  • Managed stamping operations, boosting output by 30%
  • Generated cost-effective templates for K savings yearly
  • Led daily calibrations, ensuring 98% production precision

Machinery Technician
SteelCore Manufacturing - Columbus, OH
January 2020 - January 2021

  • Maintained machinery, reducing breakdowns by 40%
  • Collaborated on K project streamlining processes
  • Optimized workflows, improving efficiency by 25%

Certifications

  • Certified Tool Maker - American Society of Precision Engineers
  • Advanced CAD Design - National CAD Institute
  • Lean Manufacturing Professional - Institute of Lean Management

Education

Master's Mechanical Engineering
Ohio State University Columbus, Ohio
May 2020

Bachelor's Manufacturing Engineering
University of Dayton Dayton, Ohio
May 2018

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How to Write a Tool & Die Maker Resume Summary

Your resume summary is the first thing employers see, setting the stage for a strong impression. It’s your chance to quickly convey your fit for the tool and die maker role.

As a tool and die maker, emphasize your precision, technical skills, and experience with machinery. Highlight your ability to design and fabricate tools with accuracy and efficiency.

To help you grasp what makes a resume summary effective or not, here are examples that illustrate successful techniques:

Weak resume summary

I am an experienced tool and die maker with extensive background in the industry. I seek a position where I can use my skills and contribute to a successful team. A company that offers advancement opportunities and values work-life balance is my ideal choice. I am eager to join your team and make a positive impact.

Why this summary misses the mark:
  • Lacks specific examples of experience or achievements relevant to tool and die making
  • Uses generic language without highlighting unique skills or strengths
  • Focuses on personal preferences rather than detailing how the applicant's abilities benefit the employer

Strong resume summary

Experienced tool and die maker with over 10 years in precision manufacturing, specializing in the design and fabrication of complex tooling for automotive production. Achieved a 20% reduction in production downtime by streamlining tool maintenance processes and implementing preventive measures. Proficient in CAD software, CNC machining, and quality assurance techniques to ensure optimal product performance.

Why this summary works:
  • Starts with a clear indication of experience level and specialization within the industry
  • Highlights quantifiable achievements that showcase the applicant's impact on operational efficiency
  • Mentions specific technical skills relevant to tool and die making, demonstrating competency and expertise
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PRO TIP

Don't fret about limited experience. Opt for a career objective! Discover tailored resume objective examples for your tool and die maker aspirations to improve your application.

Showcasing Your Work Experience

The work experience section is the centerpiece of your resume as a tool and die maker. This is where you provide most of your information, and resume templates always feature this essential section prominently.

Organize this section in reverse chronological order, listing your previous positions. Use bullet points to highlight specific achievements and skills you've honed in each role.

To help you craft a compelling work history, we'll share examples that illustrate both successful entries and common pitfalls to avoid:

Weak work experience

Tool & Die Maker

Precision Manufacturing Co. – Chicago, IL

  • Operated machines for tool production.
  • Followed safety guidelines and protocols.
  • Worked with team members to meet deadlines.
  • Maintained tools and equipment as required.
Why this work experience section misses the mark:
  • Lacks specific employment dates
  • Bullet points are overly general and do not highlight significant skills or achievements
  • Emphasizes routine tasks rather than effective contributions or measurable results
Strong work experience

Tool & Die Maker

Precision Engineering Co. – Detroit, MI

March 2018 - Current

  • Fabricate precision tools and dies for manufacturing processes, ensuring tolerances within ±0.001 inches.
  • Implement process improvements that increased production efficiency by 30%, reducing waste and downtime.
  • Train and mentor junior staff on best practices in tool design and machining techniques, improving team skill levels.
Why this work experience section works:
  • Starts each bullet with compelling action verbs that highlight the applicant's contributions
  • Incorporates specific metrics to quantify achievements and showcase effectiveness
  • Demonstrates relevant skills tailored to the role through clear examples of work performed

While your resume summary and work experience are important components, don't overlook other sections that can improve your application. For more in-depth advice on crafting a compelling resume, be sure to explore our comprehensive guide on how to write a resume.

Top Skills to Include on Your Resume

Including a skills section on your resume is important as it allows you to showcase relevant qualifications at a glance. This helps potential employers quickly assess if you possess the technical skills necessary for the tool and die maker role.

For this profession, focus on highlighting technical skills such as skill in CAD software, familiarity with CNC machines, and knowledge of metallurgy. Emphasizing these specific tools and systems can set you apart from other applicants. Key soft skills are extreme precision and meticulous attention to detail, tenacious diagnostic problem-solving, and the disciplined autonomy required to see complex tooling projects through from design to flawless completion.

Technical abilities like precision machining, blueprint reading, and CAD skill are often referred to as hard skills, which are essential for creating high-quality tools and dies.

On the other hand, soft skills such as problem-solving, teamwork, and attention to detail play a important role in collaborating effectively with colleagues and ensuring the accuracy of manufactured components.

Selecting the right resume skills is important for aligning with employer expectations and navigating automated screening processes. Many companies use software to identify job seekers who lack essential skills for the position, so it's important to tailor your skillset accordingly.

To effectively highlight your qualifications, closely review job postings. These listings often reveal the key skills that recruiters prioritize, helping you ensure that your resume resonates with both hiring managers and ATS systems alike.

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PRO TIP

Ensure your resume shines and gets noticed by applicant tracking systems. Use our ATS Resume Checker to catch over 30 common mistakes, making your application stand out and increasing your chances of success.

10 skills that appear on successful tool & die maker resumes

Highlighting in-demand skills on your resume can significantly increase your chances of catching a recruiter's eye. Our resume examples showcase these key skills tailored for tool and die maker positions, so you can approach potential employers with confidence.

Here are 10 essential skills that could improve your resume if they match your background and job specifications:

  • 1

    Precision machining

  • 2

    Blueprint reading

  • 3

    Problem-solving

  • 4

    Attention to detail

  • 5

    Tool design expertise

  • 6

    CAD software skill

  • 7

    Quality control techniques

  • 8

    Time management

  • 9

    Team collaboration

  • 10

    Manufacturing process knowledge

Based on analysis of 5,000+ industrial engineering professional resumes from 2023-2024

Resume Format Examples

Selecting the appropriate resume format is important for a tool and die maker, as it showcases your technical expertise, relevant experience, and career advancements in a clear and compelling way.

Entry-Level 0 - 2 years

Functional

Focuses on skills rather than previous jobs

Functional

Best for:

Recent graduates and career changers with up to two years of experience

Mid-Career 3 - 7 years

Combination

Balances skills and work history equally

Combination

Best for:

Mid-career professionals focused on showing technical skills and growth potential

Experienced 8+ years

Chronological

Emphasizes work history in reverse order

Chronological

Best for:

Seasoned experts leading innovative tool and die projects

Frequently Asked Questions

Absolutely. Including a cover letter can significantly improve your application by highlighting your skills and demonstrating your enthusiasm for the position. It gives you a chance to make a personal connection with potential employers. If you're looking for guidance, our resources on how to write a cover letter are invaluable, or you can use our Cover Letter Generator to craft one quickly and effectively.

A CV should be used instead of a resume when applying for jobs in many countries outside the U.S. To assist job seekers, we offer various resources that explain how to write a CV and provide CV examples, ensuring your application stands out on an international level.

Soft skills such as communication, problem-solving, and teamwork are essential for tool and die makers. These interpersonal skills foster collaboration with colleagues and enable effective troubleshooting during the manufacturing process, ensuring high-quality production and a positive work environment.

Highlight transferable skills like precision, attention to detail, and problem-solving gained from prior roles. These qualities demonstrate your readiness to excel in tool and die making, even if it's new to you. Use specific examples to illustrate how your past successes align with creating high-quality tools and dies.

For tool and die maker positions, exploring professional cover letter examples can be invaluable. These samples provide insights into effective content ideas, formatting tips, and strategies for showcasing your skills. Use them as inspiration to craft a compelling application that highlights your qualifications and experience in the field.

Including a personal mission statement on your resume is beneficial. It clearly conveys your core values and career aspirations, which works well when applying to companies that prioritize craftsmanship and innovation. This alignment with their commitment to quality and excellence in tool and die making can be helpful.

About the Author

Gabriela Hernandez large profile photo

Gabriela Hernandez CPRW, Career Advice Writer

Gabriela is a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) and member of the Professional Association of Resume Writers & Career Coaches. She focuses on helping job seekers improve their professional resumes to highlight their unique skills and experience. Gabriela holds a B.A. in journalism from the University of Puerto Rico and offers more than four years of specialized experience helping candidates navigate the complexities of today’s online job market, with a strong focus on resume optimization and effective self-presentation.

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