Mold Maker

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Regular Full Time Technical West Henrietta, NY, US

5 days ago Requisition

Salary Range: $32.00 To $37.00 Hourly

Title

Mold Maker

Department

Diamond Turning

Reports to

Diamond Turning Manager

RPO is a global leader in precision optics, optical components, and optical assemblies. We specialize in a full spectrum of products & services including – Design and Engineering, Systems Integration, Lens Assembly, Visible and Infrared Components, Glass and Plastic Molded Aspheres, and Thin Film Coating. As one of the fastest growing companies in Rochester, RPO offers exciting career paths and work on market-leading programs.

See below one of many career opportunities to join the RPO team!

Position Overview

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

• Diagnose, troubleshoot, repair, modify, and maintain precision molds, mold components, and tooling used in optical injection molding operations.
• Evaluate mold and tooling performance, identify root causes of issues, and implement corrective actions to improve quality, reliability, and productivity.
• Fabricate, modify, and fit precision mold components, inserts, fixtures, and tooling to exact specifications.
• Support mold changeovers, tooling validation, and production startup activities as required.
• Collaborate with Engineering and Manufacturing teams to evaluate tooling designs for manufacturability, functionality, and long-term performance.
• Interpret engineering drawings, GD&T requirements, sketches, and work instructions to manufacture and modify tooling components.
• Design, fabricate, and maintain fixtures and inspection aids to support manufacturing operations.
• Perform precision machining operations utilizing manual mills, lathes, grinders, and other conventional machine shop equipment.
• Support diamond turning operations and develop an understanding of processes associated with the fabrication of optical mold components and mold pins.
• Assist with process development, tooling improvements, and continuous improvement initiatives focused on quality, throughput, and cost reduction.
• Estimate machining times, tooling requirements, and manufacturing approaches for tooling-related projects.
• Lead or assist in equipment, tooling, and fixture setup activities within the department.
• Document tooling modifications, repairs, maintenance activities, and process improvements as required.
• Serve as a technical resource and mentor for less experienced personnel within the department.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Required Skills & Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED required. Associate degree, vocational training, apprenticeship, or formal toolmaking education preferred.
• 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…