Journeyman Mold Maker

Caliberr Staffing; New Albany (IN); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Caliberr Staffing seeks a skilled Mold Maker and Factory Technician to construct, repair, and fine-tune plastic injection molds on the production floor. The role requires crafting precise tooling, interpreting blueprints, and maintaining strict tolerances through measuring and testing with molding machines.

Ideal candidates have at least five years in mold-making, hands-on expertise with injection molds, and familiarity with hot runner systems.

Qualifications

• Formal training or apprenticeship completed.
• Five+ years of hands-on mold-making experience.
• Experience with plastic injection molds.
• Experience with hot runner systems is highly valued.
• Ability to read blueprints and interpret complex schematics.
• Proficient use of precision measurement and gauging instruments.
• Knowledge of mold assembly, welding, machining, and repair techniques.

Responsibilities

• Construct, service, and adjust plastic injection molds across designs and dimensions.
• Interpret schematics, sketches, and component layouts to guide work.
• Plan machining operations by calculating speeds, feeds, and material needs.
• Assemble and fit die components and tooling assemblies.
• Test and validate molds within injection molding machines.
• Diagnose tooling malfunctions and implement corrective actions.
• Conduct thorough inspections and measurements to ensure accuracy.
• Use gauging instruments to uphold tight tolerances.
• Perform heat treatment and welding on tooling components.
• Utilize manual tools and shop machinery for mold modifications.
• Overhaul or repair injection molding presses as needed.
• Collaborate with engineering/design teams to prevent production obstacles.
• Maintain safety standards when operating cranes, presses, and tooling.
• Support production, quality, and maintenance to optimize performance.

Skills

Precision machining

Blueprint interpretation

Mechanical troubleshooting

Gauging/measurement

Mold assembly

Hot runner systems

Education

Formal technical training

Apprenticeship

Five‑year internal development path

Tools

CNC machining centers

CNC lathes

Milling machines

Job description

We are looking for a skilled Mold Maker and Factory Technician to handle the construction, maintenance, and troubleshooting of plastic injection molds. This advanced role demands extensive practical expertise in precision machining, assembly, and the repair of complex tooling systems.

Successful applicants will have finished a recognized apprenticeship or technical certification and possess at least five years of direct industry experience, with a specific preference for those familiar with hot runner injection systems.

Core Duties

• Construct, service, and adjust plastic injection molds across a wide range of designs and dimensions.
• Interpret technical documentation, including schematics, sketches, and existing components, to guide your work.
• Organize and execute machining operations by calculating appropriate speeds, feeds, and material requirements.
• Assemble and fit various die components and tooling assemblies.
• Help ensure high-quality output by testing and validating molds directly within injection molding machines.
• Diagnose tooling malfunctions to determine the underlying cause and implement effective corrective measures.
• Conduct thorough inspections and measurements throughout the machining process to guarantee accuracy.
• Utilize advanced gauging and measurement instruments to uphold strict tolerance standards.
• Execute necessary heat treatment and welding tasks on tooling components.
• Employ manual tools and shop machinery to complete essential mold modifications.
• Support the team by assisting with the overhaul or repair of injection molding presses as needed.
• Collaborate with engineering and design teams to proactively address potential production or tooling obstacles.
• Maintain a secure work environment by operating cranes, presses, and various machine tools with strict adherence to safety protocols.
• Partner with production, quality, and maintenance staff to resolve tooling issues and optimize manufacturing performance.

Required Qualifications

• Successful completion of a formal technical training program, apprenticeship, or a comprehensive five-year internal development path.
• A minimum of five years of hands-on experience in the mold-making field.
• Demonstrated proficiency working specifically with plastic injection molds.
• Prior experience operating hot runner systems is highly valued.
• Expertise in mechanical troubleshooting and the interpretation of complex blueprints.
• Proficiency in the application of precision measurement and gauging instrumentation.
• Comprehensive understanding of mold assembly, welding, machining, and repair techniques.
• Ability to perform on-the-fly adjustments to molds during production runs to minimize downtime.
• High level of manual dexterity to execute intricate tasks while protecting high-value equipment.
• Proven capacity to manage tasks and projects with minimal oversight.
• Strong analytical and communication skills to facilitate effective teamwork.

Work Environment and Physical Demands

This role is based on the production floor, necessitating regular interaction with heavy machinery, injection presses, and industrial tooling. Adherence to rigorous safety standards is mandatory when managing equipment and heavy components.

You must be capable of lifting up to 60 pounds to maneuver mold parts and equipment safely. Sharp vision and steady hands are essential for reading blueprints, performing precise measurements, and conducting detailed inspections.

• Advanced mechanical troubleshooting capabilities.
• Practical background in injection molding processes.
• Expertise in the setup of dies, tools, and molds.
• Advanced ability to read and interpret technical blueprints.

Technical Equipment

• 3-4 axis CNC Vertical Machining Centers.
• 2-4 axis CNC lathes.
• Manual vertical milling machines.