Mold Shop Manager

Overview

We are seeking a skilled and experienced Mold Shop Manager to join our team at Vibram Corporation, a leading rubber manufacturing facility. The Mold Shop Manager will be responsible for overseeing the repair, maintenance, and fabrication of molds, ensuring the production of precision equipment replacement parts, and managing a team of machinists. This role will involve troubleshooting mechanical issues to minimize downtime, spearheading the development of a new repair area, and integrating advanced technologies to expand operational capabilities.

Occasional international travel for training with master mold technicians is also required.

Location:

North Brookfield, MA

Salary: $75,000-$90,000

• Mold Repair & Maintenance: Oversee the repair and maintenance of rubber molds, including welding, machining, and surface finishing to restore molds to operational specifications.
• Inspect and assess molds to identify wear, damage, or areas requiring repair, ensuring mold longevity and consistent product quality.
• Maintain and document mold repair history for future reference and continuous improvement.
• Equipment Replacement Parts Fabrication: Design, fabricate, and machine high-precision replacement parts for equipment and machinery in the facility.
• Utilize manual lathes, mills, grinders, and other machining tools to produce parts in accordance with technical specifications.
• Ensure replacement parts meet dimensional, tolerance, and quality standards to minimize equipment downtime.
• Troubleshooting & Problem Solving: Lead the troubleshooting of mechanical failures in molds and equipment, offering quick and effective solutions.
• Collaborate with the maintenance team to conduct root cause analysis of breakdowns and failures to improve processes and reduce recurrence.
• Equipment Setup & Operation: Set up, adjust, and operate machinery such as lathes, mills, and grinders for mold repairs and part production.
• Ensure machine calibration and proper operation for accurate and efficient production.
• Preventive Maintenance: Perform routine preventive maintenance on machinery and molds to ensure optimal performance.
• Proactively address potential issues to prevent disruptions and keep detailed records of maintenance activities.
• Leadership of Repair Team: Supervise a team of machinists and maintenance personnel, ensuring high-quality work and efficiency.
• Mentor and train team members to develop their skills and improve performance.
• Oversee daily operations of the repair area, ensuring work is completed on time and to specification.
• Coordinate resources and workloads to minimize downtime.
• Development of Manufacturing Repair Area: Lead the development and implementation of a new repair area focused on mold repairs and parts fabrication.
• Integrate advanced technologies (e.g., automation) to enhance repair processes and increase operational efficiency.
• Collaborate with management and engineering teams to identify technology needs and oversee new equipment installation.
• Train and mentor team members on the new technologies and techniques.
• Collaboration & Communication: Work closely with production, engineering, and quality teams to understand part and mold requirements.
• Provide feedback and suggestions for improving mold designs, part production, and maintenance strategies.
• International Travel for Training: Travel internationally for specialized training with master mold technicians on advanced mold repair techniques and troubleshooting skills.
• Integrate new skills and techniques to enhance mold repair processes within the facility.

• High School Diploma or equivalent; completion of an apprenticeship or technical training in machining is required.
• Proven leadership or supervisory experience with machinists or maintenance personnel.
• A minimum of 5 years of experience in machining, mold repair, and fabrication, preferably in a manufacturing environment.
• Proficiency in using manual lathes, mills, grinders, and other machining tools.
• Strong knowledge of blueprints, schematics, and technical drawings.
• Experience with developing or upgrading manufacturing repair areas, including…