Mold Maker
About The Position
The Mold Maker will be responsible for the fabrication, modification, repair, maintenance, and continuous improvement of precision molds, mold components, tooling, and fixtures used in the manufacturing of precision optical injection molded products. This role serves as a technical expert within our Diamond Turning group, supporting both production and development activities through precision machining, troubleshooting, process improvement, and tooling design. The ideal candidate possesses a strong foundation in mold making and toolmaking principles, exceptional machining skills, and the ability to independently diagnose and resolve complex tooling issues. This individual will work closely with Engineering, Operations, Quality, and Plastic Injection Molding personnel to ensure molds and tooling consistently meet performance, quality, and production requirements while supporting the development of new products and processes.
Requirements
- High School Diploma or GED required.
- Minimum 10 years of experience as a Mold maker, Toolmaker, Precision Machinist, or similar skilled trade within a manufacturing environment.
- Demonstrated experience troubleshooting, repairing, modifying, and maintaining precision molds and tooling.
- Strong knowledge of machine shop practices, machining methods, tooling design, and precision manufacturing techniques.
- Experience operating manual machining equipment, including mills, lathes, surface grinders, and related machine shop equipment.
- Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T), and technical specifications.
- Strong mechanical aptitude and ability to diagnose complex tooling and manufacturing issues.
- Experience designing and fabricating fixtures and tooling components.
- Proficiency with precision measurement equipment and inspection techniques.
- Strong problem-solving, analytical, and troubleshooting skills.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities and work independently with minimal supervision.
- Effective communication skills and ability to collaborate across Engineering, Manufacturing, Quality, and Production teams.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office and standard computer applications.
- Applicants for this position must be U.S. Persons as defined by U.S. law, i.e., U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents ("Green Card" holders), persons granted refugee status or asylum status in the United States, or temporary residents granted amnesty.
Nice To Haves
- Associate degree, vocational training, apprenticeship, or formal toolmaking education preferred.
- Experience with SolidWorks, Mastercam, CAMWorks, or similar CAD/CAM software is preferred.
- Experience supporting optical manufacturing, precision molding, diamond turning, medical device manufacturing, aerospace, or other high-precision manufacturing environments is highly desirable.
Responsibilities
- Diagnose, troubleshoot, repair, modify, and maintain precision molds, mold components, and tooling used in optical injection molding operations.
- Evaluate mold and tooling performance, identify root causes of issues, and implement corrective actions to improve quality, reliability, and productivity.
- Fabricate, modify, and fit precision mold components, inserts, fixtures, and tooling to exact specifications.
- Support mold changeovers, tooling validation, and production startup activities as required.
- Collaborate with Engineering and Manufacturing teams to evaluate tooling designs for manufacturability, functionality, and long-term performance.
- Interpret engineering drawings, GD&T requirements, sketches, and work instructions to manufacture and modify tooling components.
- Design, fabricate, and maintain fixtures and inspection aids to support manufacturing operations.
- Perform precision machining operations utilizing manual mills, lathes, grinders, and other conventional machine shop equipment.
- Support diamond turning operations and develop an understanding of processes associated with the fabrication of optical mold components and mold pins.
- Assist with process development, tooling improvements, and continuous improvement initiatives focused on quality, throughput, and cost reduction.
- Estimate machining times, tooling requirements, and manufacturing approaches for tooling-related projects.
- Lead or assist in equipment, tooling, and fixture setup activities within the department.
- Document tooling modifications, repairs, maintenance activities, and process improvements as required.
- Serve as a technical resource and mentor for less experienced personnel within the department.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Benefits
- Competitive compensation package linked to your experience and performance.
- 401(k) with company match
- Tuition Reimbursement opportunities
- Health, dental, vision, HSA, & life insurance.
- Paid time off including vacation, sick time, and 11 paid company holidays
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Senior
Education Level
High school or GED
