Thousands of verified Tool Designer professionals across North America -- onsite, hybrid, or remote. Marketplace and automation service company. Direct contracting.
Reviewed by Automate America Editorial Team -- updated 2026-05-26 -- citing U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics + O*NET SOC 17-3013.00.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics job growth outlook through 2034
11+
Top skills tracked on AutomateAmerica
Updated on page load
Actual hourly rate depends on location, contract duration, scope of work, vendor stack, and contractor experience. The range above reflects active hourly contracts on Automate America.
What does a Tool Designer do?
Tool designers create the cutting tools, stamping dies, injection molds, gages, and special tooling used to manufacture production parts. In automation they own die strip layouts, mold cavity design, progressive die development, and the detailed drawings handed to toolmakers and CNC programmers.
Automotive StampingTool & Die ShopsInjection MoldingAerospaceConsumer ProductsApplianceMedical Device Molding
Future of Tool Designer Work 2034
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics outlook: +2% employment growth projected through 2034 (median annual wage $68,500). See the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Tool design remains a high-value, high-experience role concentrated in tool & die regions (Michigan, Ohio, Indiana, Ontario). Strongest growth for designers who combine traditional die/mold expertise with conformal-cooling additive inserts, simulation (AutoForm, Moldflow), and high-mix low-volume tooling through 2034.
Related Occupations & Specializations
This occupation has no listed sub-specialties.
Top Hiring Locations for Tool Designer Contractors
Onboard & manage. Use built-in time sheets, expense reports, and approvals.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I hire Tool Designer contractors on Automate America?
Post your contract on the Post Your Opportunity page. Verified Tool Designer contractors will respond with availability and rates within hours. You select the best match and contract directly -- marketplace and automation service company.
What does a Tool Designer contractor cost per hour?
Hourly rates on Automate America are set by the Tool Designer contractor based on experience, geography, and project scope. The platform stat block above shows the live average from recent contracts. For reference, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a national median annual wage near $68,500 for this occupation (see the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics for the most recent year). Specialized work commands 25-50% premium over the median.
Are Tool Designer contractors available for onsite, hybrid, or remote work?
Yes. Automate America connects Tool Designer contractors for onsite (any U.S. or Canada location), hybrid, and fully remote work. Specify your preference when you post the contract.
How fast can I find a Tool Designer contractor?
Two paths -- both fast. (1)Post your contract and qualified Tool Designer contractors will apply within hours. (2) Skip the wait entirely -- Search and Request Professionals directly from the Tool Designer directory and message the people whose profiles match your need. Most urgent contracts ship within 48 hours.
Does Automate America vet Tool Designer contractors before they apply?
All Tool Designer contractors on Automate America have verified profiles, documented work history, validated skill sets, and reviews from prior customers. You can also request references, prior-work samples, and certification proof directly before signing.
Can I browse Tool Designer contractors before posting a contract?
Yes. Search and Request Professionals shows the full Tool Designer directory. You can filter by location, skills, and availability and message contractors directly -- no contract post required.