Tool-, Jig- and Die-maker
The tool-, jig- and die-maker manufactures a wide variety of equipment, for example, pressing tools, jigs and gauges. These products are used by operators to mass-produce other products and parts.
In tool-making this artisan produces devices that hold metal while it is shaved, stamped or drilled. The toolmaker makes gauges and measuring devices used in the manufacture of precision parts.
Jigs are devices used to clamp pieces of metal or other material in a required position and to guide the tools being used. This eliminates the need to mark and position pieces of work individually.
These artisans construct dies (forms) to shape metal used in stamping and forging operations. Moulds are also made for die-casting and for moulding plastics.
The tool-, jig- and die-maker may also build and repair worn or damaged dies, gauges and fixtures.
Satisfying Aspects
- the satisfaction of being a skilled craftsman
- job security (one's skills and knowledge are in demand)
- job mobility (a wide variety of jobs to which one can move)
Demanding aspects
- the possibility of injury on the job
- the continuous attention and concentration required
- having to work in a hot, noisy and dirty environment at times
- having to be on one's feet most of the time
Requirements
A tool-, jig- and die-maker should:
- be at least 16 years old;
- enjoy working with his hands;
- be able to concentrate on details;
- be a precision worker;
- have a good working knowledge of mathematics and mechanics;
- be able to read and understand drawings;
- be good at solving problems;
- have finger and manual dexterity;
- be in good physical health and have stamina;
- be able to visualize mechanical and physical relationships between objects.
School Subjects
Grade 9 Certificate in the metal industry
Grade 10 Certificate in the motorcar, weapon and aerospace industries
Compulsory Subjects: None
Recommended Subjects: Mathematics, Physical Sciences, Engineering and Graphic Design, Mechanical Technology
Training
There are three ways to qualify as a registered artisan:
1. An apprenticeship is a 4-year contract between company and apprentice, comprising a 12-week theoretical training, which includes 4 subjects at national exam level.
2. A learnership is a structured learning programme that leads to a qualification in a certain field. The learnership programme includes a theoretical and a practical component. It usually takes about a year to complete. The training takes place on-site (on the premises of the organisation). This has the advantage that the learner gets on-the-job experience whilst training.
3. FET colleges offer theoretical training to prospective artisans via the new National Certificate Vocational (NCV). During this 3-year programme (levels 2 to 4), learners complete a school-leaving certificate (this NCV) similar to the
new National Senior Certificate (NSC) in schools. They are also exposed to a practical workshop component.
All learners are required to complete a practical internship under the supervision of an experienced artisan. As an alternative to doing the full qualification, a learner can apply to do a skills programme at a FET College. Skills programmes are short practical hands-on courses.
For more information about qualifications and skills programmes, contact your nearest FET College. FET Colleges are accredited and funded by a SETA (Sector Education and Training Authority) such as MERSETA or CHIETA. They also receive bursary funding through the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) for the NCV programme.
Learners must all receive training in occupational safety and first aid, fire-fighting and preventative security measures. Learners study everything about the installation, maintenance and repair of all electrical equipment. They must also become familiar with municipal legislation relevant to electricity supply and consumption.
Employer
- Motor car manufacturing
- Metal industry
- Aerospace industries
- Engineering factories
- Plastics industries
- self-employment, with enough experience, can practise this trade on a private basis
Contact
Head of Training
Steel and Engineering Industries Federation of South Africa (SEIFSA)
P O Box 1338
Johannesburg, 2000
Tel: (011) 833-6033 Fax:(011) 838-1322
www.seifsa.co.za
MERSETA
P O Box 61826
Marshalltown, 2107
Tel: (011) 551-5202 Fax: 0866 730017
www.merseta.org.za