Skilled & Vocational · Trade
Tool & Die Maker
⚠ Estimate — needs validation · as of 2025Tool & Die Makers build, fit, and maintain precision tools, dies, jigs, and fixtures used in manufacturing. It is a hands-on trade for people who like machines, measurement, drawing, and accurate work in factories and workshops.
Who it's for: Best for students who enjoy practical work, mechanical drawing, metalworking, and problem-solving. Suits those comfortable with workshop discipline, precision, and steady skill-building more than desk-based study.
Advertisement
At a glance
Entry mode: Apprenticeship
Exam shape: none
Key exam: ITI
Min qualification: ITI Tool
Duration: 2-3 yr
Starting salary: 1.8-4.0 LPA (approx, as of 2025)
Sector: Private
Category: Skilled & Vocational
Subjects / Stream
MathematicsPhysicsScienceMechanical/Engineering DrawingITI Tool & Die Maker tradeVocational education
Step-by-step path
- Complete Class 10 with interest in maths, science, and workshop-based learning.
- Apply for ITI admission in the Tool & Die Maker trade through the state ITI admission process.
- Clear the ITI qualifying process and join the trade training, usually under NCVT/SCVT framework.
- Complete classroom learning, workshop practice, and industrial training/apprenticeship exposure.
- Pass the trade assessment and obtain the ITI certificate.
- Apply for entry-level jobs in manufacturing, tool rooms, auto ancillaries, and machine shops.
- Build experience and later upskill in CNC, CAD/CAM, or advanced tool design.
Key exams
ITI - admissionNCVT MIS - certificationSCVT - certificationState ITI merit - selection
Top institutes / boards
NCVT-affiliated Government ITIsState Government ITIsTool Room and Training Centre (TRTC), BengaluruCentral Tool Room and Training Centre (CTTC), BhubaneswarCentral Tool Room and Training Centre (CTTC), LudhianaAdvanced Training Institute (ATI), Chennai
Similar careers
Advertisement
Frequently asked questions
What is a Tool & Die Maker in India?
A Tool & Die Maker makes and repairs precision tools, dies, jigs, and fixtures used in factories for mass production.
What is the minimum qualification for Tool & Die Maker?
Usually Class 10 is the minimum for ITI admission in this trade. Some institutes may have specific subject or age requirements.
Which exam is needed for Tool & Die Maker?
There is usually no national entrance exam. Admission is commonly through the ITI admission process based on merit or state rules.
Is ITI Tool & Die Maker a good career?
Yes, if you like practical work, machines, and precision. It can lead to jobs in manufacturing, tool rooms, and maintenance units.
How many years does it take to become job-ready?
Typically about 2-3 years from Class 10/Class 12 to job-ready, including ITI training and basic workplace exposure.
What is the salary after ITI Tool & Die Maker?
Starting pay is often around 1.8-4.0 LPA in private industry, depending on city, company, and skill level, as of 2025.
Are there age limits for ITI admission?
Yes, many states and institutes have minimum age rules, often around 14-15 years, but exact limits vary by state and year.
Is there reservation in ITI admissions?
Yes, government ITI admissions usually follow state and central reservation rules for eligible categories, as per the local admission policy.
Can girls join Tool & Die Maker?
Yes. Girls and women can join this trade if they meet the eligibility rules. It is open to all genders.
What subjects should I study in school for this trade?
Mathematics, Physics, Science, and basic engineering drawing are useful. Vocational or mechanical subjects can also help.
Is English necessary for Tool & Die Maker?
Basic English helps with manuals, drawings, and workplace communication, but strong practical skill and technical understanding matter more.
What kind of work does a Tool & Die Maker do daily?
They read drawings, measure parts, machine metal, assemble tools, check accuracy, and repair dies, jigs, and fixtures.
Where can Tool & Die Makers get jobs?
They can work in auto parts, sheet metal, plastic moulding, machine shops, tool rooms, and general manufacturing units.
Is apprenticeship important for this trade?
Yes. Apprenticeship or shop-floor training is very useful because the trade is highly practical and employers value hands-on experience.
What is the fee for ITI Tool & Die Maker?
Fees vary widely by government or private institute. Government ITIs are usually much cheaper than private ones, but exact fees differ by state.
Can I do this after Class 12?
Yes. You can join ITI after Class 10 or sometimes after Class 12, depending on the institute and state admission rules.
Is this trade suitable for me?
It suits you if you enjoy practical work, precision, tools, machines, and steady learning. It may not suit you if you dislike workshop environments.
What are the growth options after starting as a Tool & Die Maker?
You can grow into senior toolmaker, setter, supervisor, CNC specialist, quality technician, or move into CAD/CAM and tool design.
Are there government jobs for Tool & Die Makers?
Government jobs are limited compared with private industry, but opportunities may exist in public sector units, railways, and technical departments.
What should I do after ITI to improve my chances?
Learn CNC, CAD/CAM, metrology, and advanced machining. Good practical skill, accuracy, and discipline can improve job opportunities.
Figures are indicative and source-stamped with an "as of" year (2025). Confirm on the official exam authority website before deciding.
Advertisement