Tool & Die Maker III - (1st Shift)
Posted Sep 4, 2026 · We last checked this listing on Oct 6, 2026
Likely interview questions for this role
Written from this job description, not a generic list. Each one notes what the interviewer is really checking.
About your past
Tell me about the most complex die, mold or fixture you designed and built. What made it hard?
What they are checking: Whether they work at the expert Level III, leading complex tooling from design through tryout.
Tell me about a time you improved a tool or process so it ran longer or made better parts.
What they are checking: Focus on process optimization, which the posting names as a core strength of a Level III toolmaker.
You'd mentor others in the shop. Tell me about someone you trained and how you did it.
What they are checking: Whether they can pass on hard-won skill patiently, which keeps the trade alive in the shop.
How do you document a tool change or repair so the next person knows what was done?
What they are checking: Whether they keep good tool records, which saves time and prevents repeat problems.
What would you do
A die is producing parts out of tolerance halfway through a run. How do you find the cause?
What they are checking: Systematic troubleshooting of wear, setup, material and press issues, under pressure to get production back.
How do you work with production when a tool needs to come out for repair during a busy run?
What they are checking: How they balance production needs with tool health and communicate the tradeoff.
About the work
What CAD/CAM software and CNC equipment have you programmed and run?
What they are checking: Depth with the digital side of toolmaking, which the role expects alongside traditional machining.
Walk me through how you read a GD&T callout like a position tolerance with a datum reference, and how you'd check it.
What they are checking: Real understanding of GD&T and inspection, not just recognizing the symbols on a print.
How do you decide whether to repair a worn die or build a new one?
What they are checking: Judgment that weighs cost, downtime, part quality and remaining tool life.
What steps do you take to stay safe around presses and machining centers?
What they are checking: Safety habits like lockout, guarding and PPE that an experienced toolmaker should follow without being told.
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Practice this out loudThe full job description
As published by Apogee Enterprises.