Die Designers are skilled craftspeople that help create dies for stamping, forming, or forging presses. Certification as a Tool and Die Maker is a prerequisite for starting a Die Designer apprenticeship in Ontario.
Job Related Skills, Interests and Values
- Interpreting and using technical data to plan the sequence of work to be performed
- Reading composite structure blueprints, structural repair manual data, and non-destructive inspection reports
- Completing written documentation to ensure tracking and storage of materials
- Safely removing paint/surface coating or special fasteners using hand or power tools
- Using ratio calculations and mathematical measurements to mix resin systems
- Recognizing and responding to contamination and its forms; addressing situation using decontamination and drying techniques
- Learning and applying sheet metal repair methods
- Communicating effectively with co-workers and supervisors; working as member of the team
What Preparation and Training Do You Need?
- Secondary school diploma with credits in math, science, and English
- Current students may benefit from Manufacturing Specialist High Skills Major Program
- Completion of an 8,300-hour apprenticeship, including a combination of on-the-job and in-school training
What's Your Future as a Die Designer (670D)?
- Generally full-time, sometimes in shifts
- Often work with large manufacturers or in smaller custom shops; some self-employed
- Employers include machine shops and manufacturers of motor vehicle parts, aircrafts and parts, and machinery
Wage Rate
Apprentice wage increases with skill and experience. Fully qualified workers earn an average of $32.00-$48.08 per hour.
Self-Rating
Die Designer (670D)
| Ask Yourself: | Yes | No |
|---|---|---|
| Do you have good hand-eye coordination? | ||
| Do you enjoy working with numbers and have good mathematical skills? | ||
| Do you like to do different tasks each day? | ||
| Are you able to follow Health & Safety guidelines? | ||
| Are you able to spot differences in different forms? | ||
| Are you detail-oriented and good with colours? Are you interested in continual learning? | ||
| Are you reliable, a self-starter and able to work with minimal supervision? Can you start and finish work on time? |
If you checked YES to the majority of these questions, a career as a Die Designer (670D) may be for you!
You might want to look at these similar trades as well;
- Machinist
- Tool and Die Maker
- Construction Millwright/Industrial Mechanic
- Industrial Woodworker
General Machinists are skilled craftspeople who set up and operate precision metal cutting and grinding machines including lathes, milling machines, drills, shapers, boring mills, and grinders. They may use equipment to manufacture, install, operate, adjust, and repair machine tools and other machines in common use.
Construction Millwrights install, maintain, and troubleshoot industrial machinery, mechanical equipment, and other automated and robotic systems. They primarily service the construction industry and often work closely with other tradespeople, such as pipefitters and electricians.
Cabinetmakers construct and repair wooden cabinets, furniture, fixtures, and related products.
Industrial Mechanic Millwrights install, maintain, repair, and remove stationary industrial machinery, mechanical equipment, and automated and robotic systems. They most often carry this work out in industrial plants and factories.