Mold Maker

Mold Maker 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. Key responsibilities include diagnosing, troubleshooting, repairing, modifying, and maintaining precision molds, mold components, and tooling used in optical injection molding operations; evaluating mold and tooling performance, identifying root causes of issues, and implementing corrective actions to improve quality, reliability, and productivity; fabricating, modifying, and fitting precision mold components, inserts, fixtures, and tooling to exact specifications; supporting mold changeovers, tooling validation, and production startup activities as required; collaborating with Engineering and Manufacturing teams to evaluate tooling designs for manufacturability, functionality, and long-term performance; interpreting engineering drawings, GD&T requirements, sketches, and work instructions to manufacture and modify tooling components; designing, fabricating, and maintaining fixtures and inspection aids to support manufacturing operations; performing precision machining operations utilizing manual mills, lathes, grinders, and other conventional machine shop equipment; supporting diamond turning operations and developing an understanding of processes associated with the fabrication of optical mold components and mold pins; assisting with process development, tooling improvements, and continuous improvement initiatives focused on quality, throughput, and cost reduction; estimating machining times, tooling requirements, and manufacturing approaches for tooling-related projects; leading or assisting in equipment, tooling, and fixture setup activities within the department; documenting tooling modifications, repairs, maintenance activities, and process improvements as required; serving as a technical resource and mentor for less experienced personnel within the department; and performing other duties as assigned. Required skills and qualifications include a 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, experience with SolidWorks, Mastercam, CAMWorks, or similar CAD/CAM software is preferred, and experience supporting optical manufacturing, precision molding, diamond turning, medical device manufacturing, aerospace, or other high-precision manufacturing environments is highly desirable. Core competencies include being results-oriented, curious, process oriented, analytical, accountable, detail-oriented, and a team player. Additional requirements include being a U.S. Person as defined by U.S. law. Compensation and benefits include a competitive compensation package linked to your experience and performance, 401(k) with company match and Tuition Reimbursement opportunities, health, dental, vision, HSA, & life insurance, paid time off including vacation, sick time, and 11 paid company holidays. Work environment and physical demands include working within a manufacturing, tooling, and machine shop environment supporting precision optical manufacturing operations, regular interaction with molds, tooling, machining equipment, diamond turning equipment, and precision measurement instruments, requires prolonged periods of standing, walking, bending, reaching, and working at machines, benches, and inspection stations, frequent use of hand tools, power tools, and precision measuring equipment to fabricate, repair, inspect, and maintain tooling and mold components, ability to safely lift, carry, push, and pull tooling, fixtures, molds, and materials weighing up to 50 pounds, requires strong manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination to perform precision machining, assembly, fitting, and inspection tasks, visual acuity is required to inspect tooling, verify dimensions, identify defects, and perform detailed precision work, must be comfortable working around machining equipment, rotating machinery, cutting tools, coolants, and other manufacturing equipment while following all safety procedures, may occasionally work with oils, lubricants, cleaning solutions, and other materials commonly found within a machine shop environment, ability to maintain concentration and attention to detail while performing complex machining, troubleshooting, and tooling-related activities, and occasional overtime, weekend work, or schedule flexibility may be required to support production schedules, tooling priorities, and department objectives.