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The differences between tool and die makers and manual 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 manual 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 $48,038 average annual salary of a manual machinist.
The top three skills for a tool and die maker include CNC, grinders and jigs. The most important skills for a manual machinist are grinders, calipers, and CNC.
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 manual machinist specializes in developing tools and components through machinery. To make this possible, they must perform research and analysis, understand blueprints and schematics, identify the client or project's needs, develop prototypes and test structures, and subject products into various quality assurance procedures. They may also enhance existing components by studying their specifications and implementing solutions against problem areas. Moreover, a manual machinist typically works in a team setting, which requires an active communication line for a smooth and efficient workflow.
Tool and die makers and manual machinists have different pay scales, as shown below.
| Tool And Die Maker | Manual Machinist | |
| Average salary | $52,956 | $48,038 |
| Salary range | Between $41,000 And $68,000 | Between $35,000 And $64,000 |
| Highest paying City | Syracuse, NY | Fremont, CA |
| Highest paying state | New York | New Mexico |
| Best paying company | Amphenol | Empower |
| Best paying industry | Technology | Technology |
There are a few differences between a tool and die maker and a manual machinist in terms of educational background:
| Tool And Die Maker | Manual Machinist | |
| Most common degree | Associate Degree, 36% | High School Diploma, 41% |
| Most common major | Precision Metal Working | Precision Metal Working |
| Most common college | - | - |
Here are the differences between tool and die makers' and manual machinists' demographics:
| Tool And Die Maker | Manual Machinist | |
| Average age | 54 | 48 |
| Gender ratio | Male, 96.2% Female, 3.8% | Male, 96.8% Female, 3.2% |
| 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, 3.9% Unknown, 3.7% Hispanic or Latino, 14.6% Asian, 6.3% White, 70.9% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.5% |
| LGBT Percentage | 3% | 3% |