Tool and Die Makers

Task by task

Each task this job involves, as listed by O*NET, rated on whether a large language model like GPT-4 could cut the time it takes by at least half at the same quality. Tasks marked Seen in real AI use appeared in conversations with Claude in April–May 2026 (Anthropic Economic Index).

• AI can speed this up on its own: 2 (12%)
• AI can speed this up with extra software: 3 (18%)
• Little or no AI speed-up: 12 (71%)

• Set up and operate conventional or computer numerically controlled machine tools such as lathes, milling machines, or grinders to cut, bore, grind, or otherwise shape parts to prescribed dimensions and finishes.AI can speed this up on its own · core task
• Develop and design new tools and dies, using computer-aided design software.AI can speed this up on its own · supplemental task
• Visualize and compute dimensions, sizes, shapes, and tolerances of assemblies, based on specifications.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task · Seen in real AI use
• Study blueprints, sketches, models, or specifications to plan sequences of operations for fabricating tools, dies, or assemblies.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task
• Inspect finished dies for smoothness, contour conformity, and defects.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task
• Verify dimensions, alignments, and clearances of finished parts for conformance to specifications, using measuring instruments such as calipers, gauge blocks, micrometers, or dial indicators.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Fit and assemble parts to make, repair, or modify dies, jigs, gauges, and tools, using machine tools, hand tools, or welders.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Select metals to be used from a range of metals and alloys, based on properties such as hardness or heat tolerance.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Lift, position, and secure machined parts on surface plates or worktables, using hoists, vises, v-blocks, or angle plates.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• File, grind, shim, and adjust different parts to properly fit them together.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Smooth and polish flat and contoured surfaces of parts or tools, using scrapers, abrasive stones, files, emery cloths, or power grinders.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Measure, mark, and scribe metal or plastic stock to lay out machining, using instruments such as protractors, micrometers, scribes, or rulers.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Conduct test runs with completed tools or dies to ensure that parts meet specifications, making adjustments as necessary.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Design jigs, fixtures, and templates for use as work aids in the fabrication of parts or products.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Cut, shape, and trim blanks or blocks to specified lengths or shapes, using power saws, power shears, rules, and hand tools.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Set up and operate drill presses to drill and tap holes in parts for assembly.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Set pyrometer controls of heat-treating furnaces and feed or place parts, tools, or assemblies into furnaces to harden.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task

Questions about tool and die makers and AI