What Does a Tool and Gauge Inspector Do?

Tool and Gauge Inspectors inspect, test and adjust new and reworked tools, dies, jigs, fixtures and gauges. To become a Tool and Gauge Inspector, you must already be a Tool and Die Maker.

Job -Related Skills, Interests and Values

  • reading and interpreting blueprints, charts and schematics
  • computing angles, radii and other dimensions, using algebra, geometry and trigonometry
  • following safety protocol
  • verifying dimensions of machined parts or tooling
  • testing moving parts and mechanical functions
  • maintaining precision measuring and testing equipment
  • reporting deviations from specifications and tolerances to supervisors
  • maintaining inspection records

What Preparation and Training Do You Need?

Grade 12 or equivalent is required to apprentice as a Tool and Gauge Inspector. Students who have completed Grade 10 have an opportunity to become registered apprentices while finishing high school under the Ontario Youth Apprenticeship (OYAP) Program. Because the work of tool & die and machinists is changing due to the use of sophisticated numerical control systems, new apprentices are expected to have a high level of math and reading skills than what was expected before these new technologies.

This is an unrestricted certified trade, which means that you do not need a valid Certificate of Apprenticeship to work in this trade, although many employers may require it.

To be a Tool and Gauge Inspector, you need to already be a Tool and Die Maker. It takes approximately 2 years to complete the apprenticeship in this trade (3,000-4,000 hours). This includes 170 hours of in-class instruction that covers:

  • Metallurgy
  • Technical math
  • Applied physics
  • Quality assurance standards
  • Precision measuring and checking technology
  • Tooling fabrication, assembly and disassembly techniques

What’s Your Future as a Tool and Gauge Inspector?

Tool and Gauge Inspectors work in industrial settings, which are primarily indoor. They may do very repetitive work and may be exposed to high noise levels, fumes and confined spaces. Shift work is common.

Employment in this trade is expected to be good through to 2007 with an increase in retirement of skilled tradespeople. Employers who hire Tool and Gauge Inspectors include:

  • Metal Products Manufacturing Companies
  • Primary Steel Producers
  • Aircraft and Parts Manufacturers
  • Machine shops
  • Machinery and equipment manufacturers
  • Motor Vehicle Manufacturers
  • Hardware and Tool manufacturers

Wage Rate

  • Fully qualified Tool and Gauge Inspectors earn an average of $15.00 to $40.00 per hour, not including overtime and benefits, and are mostly commonly paid $17.90/hr.

Self-Rating

Ask Yourself: Is Tool and Gauge Inspector For You?

Do you enjoy working with your hands?

Yes      No

Are you very good at working with numbers and performing calculations?

Yes      No

Do you enjoy working with a variety of tools?

Yes      No

Is it easy for you to spot differences in size, shape or form?

Yes      No

Can you read and interpret blueprints and schematics?

Yes      No

Do you enjoy keeping up with and learning about new technology?

Yes      No

Are you mechanically inclined?

Yes      No

If you answered Yes to most of these questions, a career as a Tool aqnd Gauge Inspector may be for you!

You may also want to explore other careers that require similar interests and skills, such as:

  • General Machinist
  • Mould Maker
  • Pattern Maker
  • Construction Millwright/Industrial Mechanic
  • Tool and Die Maker
  • Tool/Tooling Maker
  • Machine Fitter
  • Machine Shop Inspector

For more information, check out the Canadian Tooling & Machining Association: www.ctma.com