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How to hire a die setter

Die setter hiring summary. Here are some key points about hiring die setters in the United States:

  • In the United States, the median cost per hire a die setter is $1,633.
  • It takes between 36 and 42 days to fill the average role in the US.
  • Human Resources use 15% of their expenses on recruitment on average.
  • On average, it takes around 12 weeks for a new die setter to become settled and show total productivity levels at work.

How to hire a die setter, step by step

To hire a die setter, consider the skills and experience you are looking for in a candidate, allocate a budget for the position, and post and promote the job opening to reach potential candidates. Follow these steps to hire a die setter:

Here's a step-by-step die setter hiring guide:

  • Step 1: Identify your hiring needs
  • Step 2: Create an ideal candidate profile
  • Step 3: Make a budget
  • Step 4: Write a die setter job description
  • Step 5: Post your job
  • Step 6: Interview candidates
  • Step 7: Send a job offer and onboard your new die setter
  • Step 8: Go through the hiring process checklist

What does a die setter do?

In manufacturing facilities, a die setter is primarily in charge of setting up machines and equipment, selecting and utilizing various tools, preparing molds, gathering measurements and analyzing data, keeping records, monitoring the operations of machinery, and processing products according to protocols. They may also conduct regular maintenance checks, troubleshoot errors, perform basic repairs or adjustments, and produce regular reports for managers. Moreover, a die setter usually works in a team setting, which requires an open and transparent communication line for an efficient workflow.

Learn more about the specifics of what a die setter does
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  1. Identify your hiring needs

    Before you start hiring a die setter, identify what type of worker you actually need. Certain positions might call for a full-time employee, while others can be done by a part-time worker or contractor.

    Determine employee vs contractor status
    Is the person you're thinking of hiring a US citizen or green card holder?

    A die setter's background is also an important factor in determining whether they'll be a good fit for the position. For example, die setters from different industries or fields will have radically different experiences and will bring different viewpoints to the role. You also need to consider the candidate's previous level of experience to make sure they'll be comfortable with the job's level of seniority.

    This list shows salaries for various types of die setters.

    Type of Die SetterDescriptionHourly rate
    Die SetterMetal and plastic machine workers set up and operate machines that cut, shape, and form metal and plastic materials or pieces.$13-22
    Injection Molding TechnicianUsually working at manufacturing facilities, an injection molding technician is in charge of setting up and designing molds and cores to ensure a smooth workflow and quality standard products. They perform installations and adjustments, troubleshoot problems, monitor systems and regulation parameters, and maintain an active communication line with co-workers... Show more$17-28
    Molding TechnicianA Molding Technician specializes in molding materials such as plastic or metal. They are responsible for operating and calibrating machinery, adhering to product guidelines, conducting quality inspections on finished products, lifting heavy materials, and training new workforce members... Show more$15-24
  2. Create an ideal candidate profile

    Common skills:
    • Die-Setter
    • Calipers
    • Overhead Cranes
    • Cranes
    • Safety Glasses
    • Plastic Injection
    • Machine Operation
    • Preventative Maintenance
    • Mold Changes
    • Quality Checks
    • CNC
    • Stamping Presses
    • Safety Standards
    • Hand Tools
    Check all skills
    Responsibilities:
    • Manage utilization of LOTO procedures, GMP standards and OSHA safety standards.
    • Preheat die sections using torches.
    • Set up and load programs for CNC horizontal punching presses.
    • Set up and repair machines and run hi-low equipment .!
    • Clean out grinders, dryers and hoppers for material change over.
    • Check, record, and enter data into computer for SPC control.
    More die setter duties
  3. Make a budget

    Including a salary range in your die setter job description is one of the best ways to attract top talent. A die setter can vary based on:

    • Location. For example, die setters' average salary in kansas is 37% less than in connecticut.
    • Seniority. Entry-level die setters 38% less than senior-level die setters.
    • Certifications. A die setter with certifications usually earns a higher salary.
    • Company. Working for an established firm or a new start-up company can make a big difference in a die setter's salary.

    Average die setter salary

    $37,673yearly

    $18.11 hourly rate

    Entry-level die setter salary
    $29,000 yearly salary
    Updated December 15, 2025

    Average die setter salary by state

    RankStateAvg. salaryHourly rate
    1Minnesota$40,423$19
    2Alabama$38,892$19
    3Illinois$38,555$19
    4Kentucky$37,859$18
    5Michigan$37,477$18
    6Texas$36,976$18
    7Ohio$36,386$17
    8Virginia$35,914$17
    9New York$35,850$17
    10Georgia$35,397$17
    11Florida$34,506$17

    Average die setter salary by company

    RankCompanyAverage salaryHourly rateJob openings
    1German American Chamber of Commerce$47,442$22.81
    2Simpson Manufacturing Co$44,881$21.581
    3Quanta Services$41,727$20.06
    4A. Raymond Corporate North America, Inc.$40,552$19.501
    5Goodman Manufacturing$40,502$19.47
    6Transmatic$39,954$19.211
    7Pace Industries$39,606$19.042
    8American Axle & Manufacturing$39,494$18.991
    9Flex-N-Gate$39,361$18.92
    10Martinrea International$39,259$18.874
    11Davalor Mold$39,168$18.83
    12D&W Fine Pack$38,705$18.61
    13Cooper Standard$38,332$18.43
    14Magna International$38,044$18.2911
    15Engineering Incorporated$37,653$18.10
    16HEICO$37,634$18.091
    17Unifrax$37,244$17.91
    18Westlake Chemical$36,656$17.623
    19CAN Capital$36,376$17.49
    20ITS$36,299$17.45
  4. Writing a die setter job description

    A die setter job description should include a summary of the role, required skills, and a list of responsibilities. It's also good to include a salary range and the first name of the hiring manager. Below, you can find an example of a die setter job description:

    Die setter job description example

    • Full-time: 40 hours (Monday - Friday)
      • Time is TBD
    • Pay: $24.00 / hour - $25/hr (Will be discussed and based on experience)

    Summary for Die Setter:

    • Properly set up and operate Multi-action molding presses to produce a quality product, including understanding machine safety procedures.
    • Tool design capabilities: What collets, Backers, Riser, Tool lengths, Mold blocks that would be required to setup a job.
    • Cincinnati Press experience preferred
    • Use appropriate product and materials processing and handling methods in accordance with control plans and other specific instructions.
    • Properly use and care for measuring equipment.
    • Measure product and record (using computerized SPC system or other recording method) and react to in process inspection results using SPC and other process monitoring methods.

    Responsibilities of Die Setter:

    • Set up and operate equipment as assigned.
    • Preform and assist in preventative maintenance activities as assigned.
    • Wear PPE in designated areas.
    • Perform inspections and basic quality measurements.
    • Willing to learn set-up skills.
    • Capable of working with little supervision.
    • Other duties as assigned.


    Education:
    High school diploma or equivalent preferred
    Experience:
    3+ years in powder metallurgy industry
    Set-up experience is preferred

    Company offers to motivated & qualified candidates competitive compensation commensurate with experience, company benefits, paid holidays, flexible team structure, and an opportunity for variable compensation based on the company's attainment of financial targets
    Miller Brother Staffing is looking to hire individuals for this opportunity, as well as many others! To schedule your interview TODAY, apply on any job posting that says "Miller Brother Staffing", and a member of our team will be in touch to schedule an interview. Remember, Our services are always FREE! "Let Our Family Work Hard for Yours"

  5. Post your job

    To find the right die setter for your business, consider trying out a few different recruiting strategies:

    • Consider internal talent. One of the most important sources of talent for any company is its existing workforce.
    • Ask for referrals. Reach out to friends, family members, and current employees and ask if they know or have worked with die setters they would recommend.
    • Recruit at local colleges. Attend job fairs at local colleges to recruit die setters who meet your education requirements.
    • Social media platforms. LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter now have more than 3.5 billion users, and you can use social media to reach potential job candidates.
    Post your job online:
    • Post your die setter job on Zippia to find and recruit die setter candidates who meet your exact specifications.
    • Use field-specific websites.
    • Post a job on free websites.
  6. Interview candidates

    During your first interview to recruit die setters, engage with candidates to learn about their interest in the role and experience in the field. During the following interview, you'll be able to go into more detail about the company, the position, and the responsibilities.

    Remember to include a few questions that allow candidates to expand on their strengths in their own words. Asking about their unique skills might reveal things you'd miss otherwise. At this point, good candidates can move on to the technical interview.

    The right interview questions can help you assess a candidate's hard skills, behavioral intelligence, and soft skills.

  7. Send a job offer and onboard your new die setter

    Once you've decided on a perfect die setter candidate, it's time to write an offer letter. In addition to salary, it should include benefits and perks available to the employee. Qualified candidates may be considered for other positions, so make sure your offer is competitive. Candidates may wish to negotiate. Once you've settled on the details, formalize your agreement with a contract.

    You should also follow up with applicants who don't get the job with an email letting them know that you've filled the position.

    Once that's done, you can draft an onboarding schedule for the new die setter. Human Resources should complete Employee Action Forms and ensure that onboarding paperwork is completed, including I-9s, benefits enrollment, federal and state tax forms, etc. They should also ensure that new employee files are created for internal recordkeeping.

  8. Go through the hiring process checklist

    • Determine employee type (full-time, part-time, contractor, etc.)
    • Submit a job requisition form to the HR department
    • Define job responsibilities and requirements
    • Establish budget and timeline
    • Determine hiring decision makers for the role
    • Write job description
    • Post job on job boards, company website, etc.
    • Promote the job internally
    • Process applications through applicant tracking system
    • Review resumes and cover letters
    • Shortlist candidates for screening
    • Hold phone/virtual interview screening with first round of candidates
    • Conduct in-person interviews with top candidates from first round
    • Score candidates based on weighted criteria (e.g., experience, education, background, cultural fit, skill set, etc.)
    • Conduct background checks on top candidates
    • Check references of top candidates
    • Consult with HR and hiring decision makers on job offer specifics
    • Extend offer to top candidate(s)
    • Receive formal job offer acceptance and signed employment contract
    • Inform other candidates that the position has been filled
    • Set and communicate onboarding schedule to new hire(s)
    • Complete new hire paperwork (i9, benefits enrollment, tax forms, etc.)
    Sign up to download full list

How much does it cost to hire a die setter?

Recruiting die setters involves both the one-time costs of hiring and the ongoing costs of adding a new employee to your team. Your spending during the hiring process will mostly be on things like promoting the job on job boards, reviewing and interviewing candidates, and onboarding the new hire. Ongoing costs will obviously involve the employee's salary, but also may include things like benefits.

You can expect to pay around $37,673 per year for a die setter, as this is the median yearly salary nationally. This can vary depending on what state or city you're hiring in. If you're hiring for contract work or on a per-project basis, hourly rates for die setters in the US typically range between $13 and $22 an hour.

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