Tool and die makers are skilled trades professionals who design, develop, and manufacture precision tools, dies, molds, and gauges used in manufacturing processes. They work with a variety of materials including steel, aluminum, and other alloys, using advanced machinery and hand tools to create components that meet exact specifications. In the Department of National Defence, tool and die makers support the maintenance, repair, and production of military equipment and components, ensuring operational readiness and self-sufficiency across Canadian Armed Forces bases and facilities.
As a tool and die maker, you will be responsible for reading and interpreting technical drawings and specifications, setting up and operating machine tools such as lathes, milling machines, and grinders, and performing precision measurements and quality control checks. Your work involves problem-solving and adapting designs to meet production challenges while maintaining strict tolerances and safety standards. You may also mentor junior tradespeople and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives in manufacturing processes.
Tool and die makers typically work in machine shops, manufacturing facilities, or maintenance departments on military bases. The work environment is dynamic and requires attention to detail, physical capability, and a commitment to safety. You will collaborate with engineers, production planners, and other trades professionals to deliver high-quality components that support Defence operations.
Key Responsibilities
Perform machining and shaping tasks maintaining government facilities and assets, Operate tools, equipment, and machinery safely, Follow technical specifications and safety procedures, Maintain records of work performed and materials used
Post-secondary education or equivalent experience relevant to the position
Training
Entry into the tool and die maker trade typically requires completion of a recognized apprenticeship program, which combines on-the-job training with classroom instruction. Most provinces require completion of a multi-year apprenticeship (typically 4-5 years) through a provincial trades training program or private institution. You must possess a high school diploma or equivalent (such as a GED).
Essential competencies include proficiency in reading technical drawings, understanding of precision measurement techniques, knowledge of metallurgy and material properties, and expertise with CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machinery and conventional machine tools. Many employers prefer candidates with exposure to CAD (Computer-Aided Design) software and quality control methodologies.
Within the Department of National Defence, ongoing professional development opportunities include advanced CNC programming, specialized tooling techniques, quality assurance certification, and supervisory training for those pursuing advancement. DND also supports trades workers in maintaining their provincial credentials and pursuing red seal certification, which allows interprovincial mobility. Access to technical training, equipment certification programs, and mentorship from experienced toolmakers helps you stay current with manufacturing innovations and technologies.
Entry Plans
Entry into a tool and die maker position with DND typically occurs through public service staffing competitions advertised on the Government of Canada Jobs website (jobs.gc.ca). Candidates must meet the established qualifications, including completion of a recognized apprenticeship and provincial certification or journeyperson status in the tool and die maker trade.
DND may recruit through several pathways: direct competitions for specific positions at individual bases or facilities, departmental staffing pools that allow placement across multiple locations, and lateral transfers from other federal Crown corporations or government departments where applicable. If you are a current Government of Canada employee in another position or department, you may be eligible to apply for internal competitions, which can provide priority consideration.
Student and apprenticeship programs may also provide pathways into the trades. If you are actively pursuing your apprenticeship through a provincial program, you can inquire about apprenticeship placement opportunities with DND, which may offer on-the-job training that counts toward your apprenticeship requirements while providing paid work experience.
For those without current federal public service status, external competitions are regularly posted on jobs.gc.ca. We encourage candidates to create a profile, set up job alerts for tool and die maker positions, and monitor postings for opportunities at DND locations across Canada.
Part-Time Options
Full-time permanent positions are the standard for tool and die maker roles within DND, as these positions are essential to ongoing manufacturing and maintenance operations that support military readiness. However, the Department does occasionally offer term positions that may provide flexibility in duration and work arrangements.
Remote work is not typical for tool and die makers, as the role requires hands-on operation of machinery, precision work in a controlled shop environment, and direct collaboration with equipment and team members. Your work must be performed at the designated machine shop or manufacturing facility.
Flexible scheduling may be available in some circumstances, depending on operational needs and local management policies. Shift work, including evening or weekend shifts, may be required to meet production deadlines and maintain equipment availability across military operations. If flexible work arrangements are important to your career planning, we recommend discussing options during the recruitment process and with your hiring manager once employed. Part-time or job-sharing arrangements are rare but can be explored on a case-by-case basis through your departmental HR representative.
