Mold Maker

Herman Mold + Tooling, Inc; Indiana (PA); On-site; USD 52,000 - 73,000; Full time

Job summary

Herman Mold + Tooling, Inc is seeking an experienced Moldmaker to build, repair, and maintain blow molds and tooling to precise specifications. The candidate should have hands-on mold construction experience, strong blueprint reading, and a commitment to high-quality, precision work. This day-shift position runs 7:00 a.m.

– 3:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, and requires working in a shop environment with exposure to machinery and lubricants.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5+ years of moldmaking or related precision toolmaking experience.
• Strong extrusion blow mold design, construction, and function knowledge.
• Ability to read and interpret complex blueprints and CAD models.
• Experience with mold trials, troubleshooting, and process adjustments preferred.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and attention to detail.

Responsibilities

• Build new extrusion blow molds (cavities, pinch-offs, neck rings, base inserts, and related tooling) from engineering drawings and CAD/CAM data.
• Machine and fit mold components to tight tolerances, including split lines and cooling/venting features.
• Align pinch-off areas for clean parison welds and proper flash characteristics.
• Perform mold repairs, modifications, and preventive maintenance.
• Operate other precision machine tools as needed.
• Fit, assemble, and hand-finish mold components, including polishing and texturing.
• Drill and fit cooling/water lines and venting for optimal mold performance.
• Troubleshoot mold issues during trials and production and adjust accordingly.
• Read and interpret complex drawings and blueprints; verify part accuracy with precision instruments.
• Maintain detailed records of mold builds, repairs, and modifications.
• Follow shop safety procedures and maintain a clean workspace.
• Collaborate with engineers and designers to meet project timelines.

Skills

Blueprint reading

Precision measurement

Troubleshooting

Project management

Education

High school diploma or equivalent; apprenticeship or technical certification preferred

Tools

Lathe operation

CNC machinery

CAD/CAM

Job description

Herman Mold and Tooling is a precision mold‑building and tooling company based in Fairfield, Iowa. We take pride in delivering high‑quality blow molds and tooling solutions to our customers, and we’re looking for a skilled, detail‑oriented mold maker to join our team.

We are seeking an experienced Moldmaker to build, repair, and maintain blow molds and tooling to precise specifications. The ideal candidate has hands‑on experience with mold construction, a strong understanding of blueprint reading and mold design, and a commitment to producing high‑quality, precision work.

This position is for day shift 7:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. Monday - Friday.

Responsibilities

• Build new extrusion blow molds (cavities, pinch-offs, neck rings, base inserts, and related tooling) from engineering drawings, blueprints, and CAD/CAM data
• Machine and fit mold components to tight tolerances, including split lines, parting surfaces, and cooling/venting features
• Fit and align pinch‑off areas to ensure clean parison weld and proper part flash characteristics
• Perform mold repairs, modifications, and preventive maintenance, including pinch‑off and cavity rework
• Operate other precision machine tools as needed
• Fit, assemble, and hand‑finish mold components, including polishing, texturing, and engraving as needed
• Drill and fit cooling/water lines and venting to ensure proper mold performance and cycle times
• Troubleshoot mold issues during trial runs and production (e.g., parison distribution, pinch‑off, venting, cooling) and make corrective adjustments
• Read and interpret complex engineering drawings, blueprints, and mold layouts
• Use precision measuring instruments (micrometers, calipers, height gauges, CMM, etc.) to verify part accuracy
• Maintain detailed and accurate records of mold builds, repairs, and modifications
• Follow all shop safety procedures and maintain a clean, organized work area
• Collaborate with engineers, designers, and other toolmakers to meet project timelines

Requirements

• Minimum 5+ years of experience as a moldmaker or in a related precision toolmaking role; extrusion blow mold experience strongly preferred
• Strong knowledge of extrusion blow mold design, construction, and function
• Familiarity with pinch‑offs, neck rings, cavities, base inserts, cooling/venting systems, and split‑line fit
• Proficiency operating lathes and other toolroom machinery
• Ability to read and interpret complex blueprints, technical drawings, and CAD models
• Experience with mold trials, troubleshooting, and process adjustments preferred
• Strong mechanical aptitude and attention to detail
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects/deadlines
• High school diploma or equivalent required; formal toolmaking apprenticeship, trade school, or technical certification preferred

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to 50lbs
• Manual dexterity for precision hand work
• Ability to work in a shop environment with exposure to machinery, noise, and lubricants