Lead Toolmaker - Mold Repair and Precision Manufacturing

Vibram Corporation•North Brookfield, MA

2d•Onsite

About The Position

Vibram is seeking an experienced Lead Toolmaker to be the technical leader of their mold repair and precision manufacturing operations. This role involves building and shaping a growing in-house toolroom, introducing new technologies, and becoming the subject matter expert for a critical manufacturing function. The position is ideal for someone passionate about precision craftsmanship, solving complex problems, mentoring others, and continuously improving manufacturing processes. The Lead Toolmaker will be responsible for restoring, maintaining, and improving precision molds, machining replacement components, and diagnosing tooling issues. This role offers unique opportunities for specialized training in Italy, becoming a technical expert, helping design a modern repair department, evaluating advanced technologies, and influencing tooling strategy, with potential for leadership growth.

Requirements

Five or more years of experience as a Toolmaker, Mold Maker, Die Maker, or Precision Machinist.
Strong manual machining experience including lathes, milling machines, surface grinders, and related toolroom equipment.
Experience repairing, fitting, rebuilding, or manufacturing precision tooling or molds.
Ability to read blueprints, GD&T, and technical drawings.
Strong mechanical troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
Excellent attention to detail and commitment to quality workmanship.
Ability to work independently while collaborating across multiple departments.
Willingness to travel internationally for technical training.

Nice To Haves

Mold repair experience in rubber, plastics, die casting, injection molding, or similar manufacturing environments.
TIG welding or precision weld repair experience.
CNC machining experience.
CAD/CAM experience.
Leadership, mentoring, or supervisory experience.
Experience implementing new manufacturing technologies or continuous improvement initiatives.

Responsibilities

Repair, rebuild, and maintain precision production molds to restore them to original operating specifications.
Machine high-precision replacement components for manufacturing equipment and tooling.
Perform manual machining operations using lathes, milling machines, grinders, drill presses, and other toolroom equipment.
Diagnose tooling issues and recommend long-term improvements that increase mold life and production efficiency.
Perform precision welding, polishing, fitting, and finishing of mold components.
Read and interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, and CAD models.
Partner with Engineering, Maintenance, Production, and Quality teams to improve tooling performance and reduce downtime.
Maintain accurate documentation of mold repairs, modifications, and preventative maintenance activities.
Support implementation of new manufacturing technologies, equipment, and repair processes.
Help develop and grow Vibram's in-house mold repair capabilities and establish best practices for the future.
Mentor and train other technicians as the department expands.