Class A Mold Maker
Occupations:
Tool and Die MakersMachinistsModel Makers, Metal and PlasticMolders, Shapers, and Casters, Except Metal and PlasticMultiple Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and PlasticIndustries:
FoundriesOther Fabricated Metal Product ManufacturingHardware ManufacturingMachine Shops; Turned Product; and Screw, Nut, and Bolt ManufacturingPlastics Product ManufacturingPosition SummaryThe Class A Mold Maker is a top-tier, highly skilled tooling professional responsible for building, fitting, modifying, and repairing complex molds to the highest precision standards. This role requires expert-level machining capability, strong understanding of mold design, and the ability to work independently from concept through completion.Key ResponsibilitiesBuild new molds from start to finish, including machining, fitting, assembly, polishing, and final qualification.Interpret highly detailed engineering drawings, 3D CAD models, and GD&T specifications with minimal supervision.Set up and operate advanced machining equipment, including CNC mills/lathes, surface grinders, EDM (sinker and wire), and high-precision manual equipment.Perform complex mold repairs and engineering changes, including troubleshooting parting line issues, venting, gating, runners, slides, lifters, and hot-runner systems.Diagnose root causes of mold defects (flash, galling, cooling issues, alignment failures, etc.) and implement corrective actions.Lead mold trials, ensuring tools run correctly and meet all dimensional, cosmetic, and functional requirements before release to production.Collaborate with design, engineering, and processing teams to optimize mold design for manufacturability, quality, and cycle time.Maintain detailed documentation and mold history, including preventive maintenance actions and repair logs.Ensure all work complies with tight tolerances, quality standards, and safety procedures.QualificationsJourneyman toolmaker certification or equivalent high-level training required.5–10+ years of mold-making experience, preferably with complex, high-precision molds.Expert understanding of:Mold design and mold constructionTool steels, heat treating, and material propertiesHot runner systems, cooling layouts, gating strategiesTight-tolerance machining and finishing practicesAbility to independently program, set up, and operate CNC equipment and EDM systems.High proficiency with precision measuring tools (micrometers, indicators, gauge blocks, optical comparators).Strong analytical and troubleshooting skills.Ability to lead projects, mentor junior mold makers, and coordinate work with engineering.Preferred SkillsExperience with medical injection molds.Familiarity with CAD/CAM software such as SolidWorks, Mastercam, or Siemens NX.Knowledge of lean manufacturing and continuous improvement practices.Experience supporting high-volume manufacturing environmentsWork EnvironmentPrecision toolroom within a manufacturing facility.Requires standing, lifting up to 50 lbs, and working with machinery, oils, coolants, and fine-detail components.Overtime may be required based on production needs.