CNC Programmer & Pattern Maker: Mold & Tooling Lead

TriEnda; Portage (WI); On-site; USD 52,000 - 76,000; Full time

Job summary

Kruger Family Industries, Portage, WI, seeks a skilled CNC Programmer / Pattern Maker to lead in-house pattern-building operations. You will own the full pattern build from scheduling to CAM programming, CNC machining, finishing, and inspection, coordinating with Engineering and Operations to meet deadlines.

Responsibilities include fabricating master patterns from wood and Ren Shape, machining 3D printed tools, and maintaining aluminum molds.

Qualifications

• High school diploma/GED required; CNC certification, tool & die certification, or trade apprenticeship preferred.
• 3+ years of experience in CNC machining, pattern making, mold making, or precision tool/die fabrication.
• Proven experience machining and working with wood, Ren shape/tooling board, plastics (ABS), and metals (cast aluminum).
• Proven track record setting up and running CNC mills or large-format routers; strong traditional model shop bench-work skills is essential.
• Strong ability to read 3D engineering files, blueprints, and GD&T.

Responsibilities

• Wood & Ren Board Fabrication: Build, construct, and CNC machine master patterns, plugs, and molds from scratch.
• CNC Machining of 3D Printed Tools: Set up and operate 3-axis and 5-axis CNC routers and mills to machine 3D-printed patterns into production-ready parts.
• Aluminum Mold Maintenance & Modification: Modify, repair, and rework aluminum molds per engineering changes or wear.
• Post-Processing & Surface Finishing: Sand, fill, polish, and apply coatings to achieve defect-free finishes.
• Apply Draft & Venting: Inspect tooling for proper draft and drill/clear vacuum vent holes for production airflow.
• CNC Programming & G-Code: Load, test, and optimize CNC programs; make basic edits at the controller.
• Inspect & Verify: Use calipers, micrometers, depth gauges to inspect tools within tolerances.
• Engineering Collaboration: Provide feedback on 3D print machining allowances and mold design updates.
• Perform all duties in compliance with regulatory requirements and company policies.

Skills

CNC machining

Pattern making

GD&T

Blueprint reading

English fluency

Education

High school diploma or GED

CNC certification / tool & die / trade apprenticeship

3+ years CNC experience

Job description

Kruger Family Industries, Portage, WI, seeks a skilled CNC Programmer / Pattern Maker to lead in-house pattern-building operations. You will own the full pattern build from scheduling to CAM programming, CNC machining, finishing, and inspection, coordinating with Engineering and Operations to meet deadlines.

Responsibilities include fabricating master patterns from wood and Ren Shape, machining 3D printed tools, and maintaining aluminum molds.