Instrument and toolmaker (craft certificate)

Instrument and toolmakers put together equipment for testing, measuring, and control checks, as well as for tuning these instruments. Examples of such products are microscopes parts, instruments, and equipment for laboratory research. Key tasks include:

• production of parts and equipment (consisting of mechanical, pneumatic, hydraulic, optic, and electronic components) for guidance and control systems and measuring/testing
• drawings and creations for solutions
• choice of suitable materials
• use of CAD/CAM and manual tool machines such as lathes, milling machines, and drilling machines
• grinding, gluing, connecting, surface treatment, and soldering, as well as sheet work

Instrument and toolmakers should be able to work methodically and independently. The products are often small and lightweight, which gives rise to the demand for very fine tolerances and fits. You should be good with your hands, able to work meticulously, be good at mathematics, nimble-fingered, and be able to visualize theoretical and practical solutions. Languages such as German and English are used in the manuals and technical reference books.