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The differences between tool and die makers and computer numerical controller machinists can be seen in a few details. Each job has different responsibilities and duties. While it typically takes 4-6 years to become a tool and die maker, becoming a computer numerical controller machinist takes usually requires 2-4 years. Additionally, a tool and die maker has an average salary of $52,956, which is higher than the $41,685 average annual salary of a computer numerical controller machinist.
The top three skills for a tool and die maker include CNC, grinders and jigs. The most important skills for a computer numerical controller machinist are calipers, micrometers, and manual lathes.
| Tool And Die Maker | Computer Numerical Controller Machinist | |
| Yearly salary | $52,956 | $41,685 |
| Hourly rate | $25.46 | $20.04 |
| Growth rate | 1% | 1% |
| Number of jobs | 18,971 | 32,345 |
| Job satisfaction | 5 | - |
| Most common degree | Associate Degree, 36% | High School Diploma, 39% |
| Average age | 54 | 48 |
| Years of experience | 6 | 4 |
A tool and die maker is responsible for operating various mechanical tools and equipment to create components, metal parts, and other tools for a wide range of industries. Tool and die makers analyze schematics and blueprints to assemble parts and verify dimensions accurately. They also perform diagnostic tests for the items and adjust specifications as needed. A tool and die maker must have excellent communication and organizational skills, as well as extensive knowledge of the technological and mechanical industries.
A computer numerical controller machinist is responsible for operating computer-based equipment, creating new machine components by programming, and evaluating machine blueprints. Computer numerical controller machinists must have extensive knowledge of the technology industry to understand its complexities and define accurate solutions, as well as excellent analytical skills for calculation requirements. Other tasks include interpreting specifications and parameters, monitoring stock inventory, requesting operating tools, verifying accurate measurements, detecting machine malfunctions, and adhering to the safety standards and procedures of the operations area.
Tool and die makers and computer numerical controller machinists have different pay scales, as shown below.
| Tool And Die Maker | Computer Numerical Controller Machinist | |
| Average salary | $52,956 | $41,685 |
| Salary range | Between $41,000 And $68,000 | Between $30,000 And $56,000 |
| Highest paying City | Syracuse, NY | Coon Rapids, MN |
| Highest paying state | New York | New Mexico |
| Best paying company | Amphenol | Amphenol |
| Best paying industry | Technology | Technology |
There are a few differences between a tool and die maker and a computer numerical controller machinist in terms of educational background:
| Tool And Die Maker | Computer Numerical Controller Machinist | |
| Most common degree | Associate Degree, 36% | High School Diploma, 39% |
| Most common major | Precision Metal Working | Precision Metal Working |
| Most common college | - | - |
Here are the differences between tool and die makers' and computer numerical controller machinists' demographics:
| Tool And Die Maker | Computer Numerical Controller Machinist | |
| Average age | 54 | 48 |
| Gender ratio | Male, 96.2% Female, 3.8% | Male, 93.6% Female, 6.4% |
| Race ratio | Black or African American, 2.4% Unknown, 2.8% Hispanic or Latino, 6.5% Asian, 2.7% White, 84.8% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.8% | Black or African American, 4.0% Unknown, 3.7% Hispanic or Latino, 15.1% Asian, 6.4% White, 70.3% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.5% |
| LGBT Percentage | 3% | 3% |