CNC Programmer & Pattern Maker

Kruger Family Industries • Portage, WI

5d • Onsite

About The Position

At Kruger Family Industries, parent company of Penda Corporation and TriEnda Holdings, our passion is to bring great products to life through an exceptional area of thermoformed solutions. We are the North America leader in heavy gauge thermoformed plastics. We are committed to delivering highly engineered, high quality material handling products and automotive accessories that reduce the weight and cost of traditional composite, fiberglass, wood and metal products, making this an opportunity to work in an innovative environment during an exciting growth phase. The CNC Programmer / Pattern Maker is the key technical resource responsible for leading KFI's in-house pattern-making operation at the Portage facility. This person owns the entire pattern build process from start to finish, including schedule management, CAM programming, CNC machining, 3D printed pattern trimming, finishing, and inspection. The role carries full accountability for pattern completion dates and is expected to proactively communicate schedule status to Engineering and Operations stakeholders. The position supports a low volume, high-mix environment producing approximately 75 to 100 prototype thermoforming patterns per year and requires a self-directed individual who can work independently, manage competing priorities, and maintain consistent quality and throughput.

Requirements

• High school diploma/GED required
• 3+ years of experience in CNC machining, pattern making, mold making, or precision tool/die fabrication.
• Proven experience machining and working with a wide range of materials, including wood, Ren shape/tooling board, plastics (ABS), and metals (cast aluminum).
• Proven track record setting up and running CNC mills or large-format routers.
• Strong traditional model shop bench-work skills are essential.
• Strong ability to read 3D engineering files, blueprints, and geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T).
• Fluency in English is required.
• The ability to read, analyze, and interpret documents and the ability to effectively present information to all levels of employees including top management in a variety of settings is required.
• Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions.
• Ability to interpret an extensive variety of technical instructions in mathematical or diagram form and deal with several abstract and concrete variables.

Nice To Haves

• CNC machining certification, tool & die certification, or trade apprenticeship preferred.

Responsibilities

• Build, construct, and CNC machine master patterns, plugs, and molds from scratch using hardwood, plywood, Ren Shape/polyurethane tooling boards, and epoxy.
• Set up and operate 3-axis and 5-axis CNC routers and mills to precisely machine, trim, and finish 3D-printed polymer patterns into production-ready thermoforming plugs.
• Modify, repair, and rework existing cast aluminum molds when engineering changes or production wear require updates; perform precise drilling, milling, and manual bench work on aluminum tooling.
• Sand, fill, polish, and apply heat-resistant coatings to machined 3D prints, wood, Ren board, and aluminum surfaces to achieve optimal, defect-free finishes.
• Inspect all tooling to guarantee proper draft angles for clean part release, and drill or clear precise vacuum vent holes to optimize production airflow.
• Load, test, and optimize CNC programs; perform basic G-code edits at the controller to accommodate variations in wood, printed polymers, and cast aluminum.
• Use calipers, micrometers, and depth gauges to inspect finished tools, ensuring they maintain tight engineering tolerances (± 0.005").
• Partner with the on-site design engineering team to provide feedback on 3D print machining allowances, material stock, and aluminum mold design updates.
• Perform all duties in compliance with regulatory requirements as well as company policies and procedures

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: High school or GED