Journeyman Mold Maker

Factory Fix / Mold Maker – Plastic Injection Molding

Position Summary

We are seeking an experienced Mold Maker / Factory Fix Technician to build, repair, troubleshoot, and maintain plastic injection molds. This is an advanced-level mold-making position requiring strong hands-on experience with precision machining, mold assembly, troubleshooting, and repair.

The ideal candidate has completed a formal mold-making apprenticeship or technical training program and brings 5 years of mold-making experience, preferably working with hot runner injection mold systems.

Key Responsibilities

• Build, repair, modify, and maintain plastic injection molds of various sizes and configurations.
• Read and interpret blueprints, drawings, sketches, written instructions, and existing parts.
• Plan and perform setups on tool-room machinery based on materials, tolerances, feeds, and speeds.
• Fit and assemble mold components, tools, and dies.
• Set up, run, and test molds in injection molding presses to ensure finished products meet specifications.
• Troubleshoot mold and tooling problems, identify root causes, and make necessary repairs or modifications.
• Perform precision measurements and inspections before, during, and after machining.
• Use precision measuring and gauging equipment to maintain tight tolerances.
• Perform welding and heat treatment of components as required.
• Use hand tools and tool-room equipment to perform mold modifications and repairs.
• Assist with injection molding press repairs or overhauls when needed.
• Work with product designers and engineering personnel to identify potential manufacturing or tooling challenges with new designs.
• Safely operate cranes, boring machines, machine tools, mold presses, and other mold-making equipment.
• Work closely with processors, maintenance, quality, mold setters, supervisors, and production personnel to resolve tooling and production issues.

Qualifications

• Completion of a formal apprenticeship program, technical school mold/tool-making program, or equivalent five-year in-house training program.
• 5 years of mold-making experience preferred.
• Experience with plastic injection molds strongly preferred.
• Experience with hot runner mold systems highly preferred.
• Strong blueprint-reading and mechanical troubleshooting skills.
• Experience with precision measuring and gauging tools.
• Knowledge of mold fitting, assembly, machining, welding, and repair.
• Ability to troubleshoot molds during production and make necessary adjustments or repairs.
• Strong manual dexterity and ability to perform detailed precision work without damaging high-value tooling.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Strong problem-solving and communication skills.

Physical & Work Requirements

This position is performed primarily on a manufacturing/shop floor and requires working around injection molding presses, heavy tooling, and machine-shop equipment. Candidates must be comfortable following strict safety procedures when operating equipment and handling molds.

Must be able to lift up to 60 pounds and safely move or position mold components and equipment. Good corrected vision and manual dexterity are required for blueprint reading, precision measurements, mold inspection, and detailed tooling work.

You should be proficient in:

• Mechanical Troubleshooting Skills
• Injection Molding Experience
• Tool/Die/Mold Setup Experience
• Blueprint Reading

Machines & technologies you'll use:

• CNC Mill (3-4 axis VMC)
• Injection Molding Machine
• CNC Lathe (2-4 axis)
• Manual Vertical Mill
• Jig Grinder