Tooling

Build, modify, maintain, and repair boat plugs, molds, patterns, and related tooling used in fiberglass boat production and new-product development. Work from drawings, models, specifications, and direction from Tooling leadership to produce accurate, durable tooling and high-quality surfaces.

• Build, modify, maintain, and repair boat plugs, molds, patterns, templates, and related production tooling.
• Perform tooling changes required for current boat models, product improvements, and new-product development.
• Work from drawings, sketches, measurements, models, specifications, and verbal instructions to plan and complete assigned tooling work.
• Coordinate with Tooling leadership, Engineering, Product Development, and Production to confirm requirements, schedules, and expected results.
• Lay out and verify reference points, centerlines, contours, dimensions, and alignment before and during tooling work.
• Construct and shape plugs, molds, fixtures, and supporting structures using appropriate composite, wood, metal, plastic, and filler materials.
• Prepare surfaces by cutting, grinding, sanding, filling, fairing, and polishing to achieve the required shape and finish.
• Apply and work with fiberglass, resins, gelcoat, adhesives, fillers, and other tooling materials according to established processes.
• Make accurate modifications to hull, deck, component, and accessory tooling while protecting critical dimensions and surfaces.
• Fit and assemble tooling components, inserts, flanges, supports, and fixtures using hand and power tools.
• Inspect plugs, molds, and completed tooling for surface quality, symmetry, alignment, dimensions, and conformance to requirements.
• Identify cracks, print-through, distortion, surface damage, wear, or other tooling defects and complete appropriate repairs.
• Repair and refinish molds and plugs to restore production readiness and maintain part quality.
• Conduct fit checks and trial applications as needed, then make adjustments to achieve the required form, fit, and function.
• Support prototype builds, first-part evaluations, mold commissioning, and the introduction of new or revised products into production.
• Assist Production in diagnosing tooling-related quality or fit issues and implement approved corrective actions.
• Use measuring tools, levels, straightedges, templates, gauges, and other inspection equipment to verify work.
• Safely operate saws, grinders, sanders, drills, routers, polishers, spray equipment, and other tools required for composite tooling work.
• Select and prepare materials appropriate for the assigned tooling build, modification, or repair.
• Move, position, support, and secure plugs, molds, and tooling components using approved lifting and material-handling methods.
• Maintain mold edges, parting lines, flanges, radii, and finished surfaces to support safe handling and consistent production parts.
• Protect completed surfaces and surrounding production equipment from damage, dust, overspray, and contamination.
• Follow required cure times, material ratios, application procedures, and temperature or environmental controls.
• Maintain clean and organized work areas and properly store tools, materials, patterns, and tooling components.
• Clean and perform routine care of tools and equipment; report damaged or unsafe equipment promptly.
• Follow all safety procedures and use required personal protective equipment when working with composites, chemicals, dust, and powered equipment.
• Read and follow product labels, safety data sheets, work instructions, and company procedures for tooling materials and processes.
• Communicate progress, material needs, quality concerns, and schedule risks to the Tooling Supervisor or designated team lead.
• Document significant tooling…